Frozen Fury Night One: Pictures and Observations

Last night marked the very first NHL game in T-Mobile Arena history, and hopefully the last time the Stars ever win in this building.

First, let’s start with some observations, then we will get to the pictures and videos.

• Parking was easy, but they charge a $20 flat rate at NYNY and Monte Carlo. It’s free for locals at MGM Grand, Excalibur, Luxor, or Aria.
• Ticket box/will call was very easy, short lines and very helpful.
• Trip from entrance to seat took about 10 minutes.
• Once I could see the ice, I seriously felt a chill. The air was crisp, it was noticeably cold.
• You could see ice from parts of the concourse which was cool, so it never feels like you never miss gameplay.
• The ice was incredibly clear and very bright, creating great visibility.
• The ice seemed very fast. Like a clean sheet during the entire period rather than just the beginning. Players were gliding.
• The boards were “live.” Big rebounds off the backboards behind the goalies. Two goals created from backboard deflections. Huge offensive impact if no adjustment is made.
• Boards also seemed very stiff, didn’t move when players landed body checks.
• Granted it was preseason, but there were so many penalties.
• Penalty boxes look very big, almost like the league is expecting multiple players in one box at a time. Plenty of fans will be able to harass penalized players. And more importantly plenty of space for that SinBin.vegas ad we’ve been dreaming of.
• Stanchions were slanted under new NHL regulations for player safety.

• The video board was alive. Did a great job of distracting fans from game pauses.
• PA voice was loud and clear.
• Old arena organ music was a great fit
• Video board also had big, clear numbers so you could find the score and time at all times.
• I can’t really say how the fan traffic during intermissions and the end of the game. It seemed to move quickly and smoothly. (Post in comments if you were there)
• Locker room access was confusing. #PressPassProblems
• Toshiba Plaza was packed afterwards with happy hockey fans.
• Leaving for me was easy because I left an hour after the game.
• Great experience, fans can’t wait for real hockey.

Now time for some pics!

Videos are on our Twitter or my Twitter.

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Also, remember that tonight is the big night for Vegas Hockey Fan Fest. The Q&A with The Creator and GM George McPhee begins at 5 PM on Toshiba Plaza. We will be live tweeting all your stupid questions, so don’t sound dumb, we will make fun of you.