Illegal Curve PictureSo are the Winnipeg Jets fans really worried what some mediocre third line player at twilight of their hockey career a la Eric Belanger has to say about the city of Winnipeg? I hardly think so, the fact remains is that the NHL is drawing poorly in the desert and I can’t fore see crowds this putrid in Winnipeg. What do you think?
Toronto Sun --- While talk of possibly moving the Phoenix Coyotes to Winnipeg is getting most hockey fans excited, especially those in Winnipeg, Coyotes forward Eric Belanger is among the minority that are not thrilled with the idea.
While this is just the latest turn in the ongoing saga surrounding his team, Belanger isn't about to ignore the issue and hope it blows over.
He knows that the Coyotes' days in the dessert are likely numbered, but Belanger, who rarely minces words, doesn't see Winnipeg as a dream destination.
“The guys have been talking about it a bit more every day, and the one sure thing is that we want to play in Phoenix and not in Winnipeg,” said Belanger. “Personally, and I won't name any names, but I've chatted with guys that have played (in Winnipeg) and don't want to go back. There are reasons why hockey wasn't working in Winnipeg at the end, I don't see how that would have changed.”
Belanger, who has also played for the Los Angeles Kings, Carolina Hurricanes, Atlanta Thrashers, Minnesota Wild and Washington Capitals says he has nothing against the Winnipeg hockey fans that are desperate to see a team back in their city.
“There are good fans there, but Winnipeg is still Winnipeg,” Belanger said. “In January and February, I doubt that my family would follow me out there for a holiday.”
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