Hockey is thriving in South Florida, and Gary Bettman loves it. 'It's been fun to see'
Briefly

Gary Bettman, NHL Commissioner, acknowledged the soaring popularity of hockey in South Florida, attributed chiefly to the Panthers' recent successes. The franchise enjoyed its first Stanley Cup win and recorded a franchise-high average of 19,059 fans per home game this season. Bettman specifically praised owner Vinnie Viola and his family's commitment to the team and the fans. During playoffs, attendance has further exceeded capacity, reflecting a growing enthusiasm for hockey in the region, culminating in a sold-out Amerant Bank Arena.
"I think it starts with two words: Vinnie Viola and the whole family. The commitment that they've made to South Florida, to hockey, to this team, to the fans, has been nothing short of sensational."
"The Panthers this season averaged a franchise-high 19,059 fans per home game, just shy of 100 percent capacity and more than 400 fans per game higher than last season."
Read at Miami Herald
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