Winnipeg Jets Attendance Woes
The Winnipeg Jets are facing some challenges with attendance lately, which is worrying for their fans. The team’s co-owner Mark Chipman mentioned that their season ticket holders have decreased by 27 percent over three years, leaving only 9,500.
Chipman expressed concern about this decline stating that they need to get back to having 13,000 season ticket holders for the team to thrive in the long term.
However, despite these concerns it’s unlikely that the Jets will move away from Winnipeg anytime soon. There are several reasons for this. Winnipeg has dedicated and passionate fans. The atmosphere in the stands especially during the Whiteout games is unmatched.
Mark Scheifele and Connor Hellebuyck have chosen to stay with the Jets and sign lucrative contract extensions. They value the support and unique experience of playing for Winnipeg. The NHL typically works hard to keep teams in their current cities as seen with the struggles faced by other franchises like the Arizona Coyotes.
While there may be interest from other cities in getting an NHL team the league would likely want to avoid the negative optics of allowing Winnipeg to lose its second team. Despite these challenges the Jets organization is not in immediate danger.
If attendance doesn’t improve in the future there may be cause for concern but for now, Winnipeggers have the opportunity to support their team and the Jets have options to engage with fans through flexible ticket packages.
There are too many positive aspects of Winnipeg as an NHL city to consider relocation a likely scenario shortly.
About Winnipeg Jets
The Winnipeg Jets, a professional ice hockey team based in Winnipeg, Canada, have carved their name into the annals of sports history. Let’s lace up our skates and glide through their exhilarating journey.
The Jets are a proud member of the National Hockey League (NHL), competing in the Central Division of the Western Conference. Their home games unfold at the Canada Life Centre.
The Jets’ players, clad in their iconic blue and white jerseys, dazzle fans with their skillful maneuvers. From slap shots to breakaways, they leave spectators breathless.
Winnipeg Jets Star Players
Sean Monahan: A natural hat-trick hero, Monahan’s stick dances with the puck, leaving opponents bewildered.
Mark Scheifele: His name echoes through the arena as he scores crucial goals against formidable rivals.
Josh Morrissey: A defensive stalwart, Morrissey guards the net like a fortress.
Winnipeg Jets all time top 10 records
| Rank | Player | Position | Years with Jets | Notable Achievements |
| 1 | Dale Hawerchuk | Center | 1981-1990 | First overall pick in the 1981 NHL Entry Draft Reached 100-point mark six times with the Jets Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2001. |
| 2 | Bobby Hull | Left Wing | 1972-1979 | Revolutionized how players shot the puck Played during the WHA era Scored 50 goals in a season. |
| 3 | Teemu Selanne | Right Wing | 1992-1996 | Iconic 132-point rookie season Memorable goal celebration Traded to Anaheim in 1995-96 season. |
| 4 | Thomas Steen | Center | 1981-1995 | 817 points in 950 games City councillor for Elmwood – East Kildonan district. |
| 5 | Anders Hedberg | Right Wing | 1974-1978 | 236 goals and 458 points in 286 WHA games Finished career with New York Rangers. |
| 6 | Shane Doan | Right Wing | 1995-1996 (rookie) | Represented modern face of Jets franchise Current captain of Phoenix Coyotes. |
| 7 | Ulf Nilsson | Center | 1974-1978 | Played alongside Hedberg in WHA era Dynamic duo for the Jets. |
| 8 | Laurie Boschman | Center | 1981-1988 | Physical player and team leader Known for his work ethic. |
| 9 | Keith Tkachuk | Left Wing | 1992-2001 | Scored 50 goals in a season with the Jets Powerful forward. |
| 10 | Paul MacLean | Left Wing | 1981-1987 | Consistent scorer for the Jets Later became an NHL head coach. |
FAQs
Why are there concerns about the Jets leaving Winnipeg?
The Jets’ chairman, Mark Chipman, recently raised attendance concerns, stating that the team’s season ticket-holder base has shrunk by 27 percent over the past three years to just 9,500. He expressed worry about the current situation, saying, “This place we find ourselves in right now, it’s not going to work over the long haul.
What makes Winnipeg an attractive NHL city?
Despite its icy weather and small-town identity compared to major NHL cities like New York City and Toronto, Winnipeg has unique qualities. The passionate and friendly fans, the iconic “Whiteout” in the stands, and the chants of “true north” create a ferocious hockey market.
Is there a real risk of the Jets leaving?
While Chipman’s comments raised concerns, the Jets are not in imminent danger of relocating. The NHL generally works hard to keep teams in their current locations. Even struggling franchises like the Arizona Coyotes continue to operate for their fans.
What motivates the Jets to stay in Winnipeg?
The Jets’ success this season, contrary to expectations, provides motivation for players and fans alike. Nobody wants to witness the team leaving town for a second time.
Will the Jets’ home games remain in Winnipeg?
Yes, the Winnipeg Jets have confirmed that their home games will continue to be played at Winnipeg’s Canada Life Centre.