Various NHL teams are actively trying to win their fans back after a grueling lockout that nearly killed off the 2012-13 season. Will fans return? That's yet to be determined.
Check out what several teams are doing in an attempt to win their fans back now that the lockout is over.
We've already seen a bunch of teams release apologies in statements to their fans. Some clubs have decided to put their money where their mouth is, offering deals and promotions to their fans.
Pittsburgh Penguins
If you're planning on attending one of Pittsburgh's first four home games of the new season, bring your appetite. The team announced on their site that they will give out vouchers to each fan in attendance which will allow them to receive three free concession items. Unfortunately, beer isn't on the list but fans could receive hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, nachos, popcorn, pretzels, salads and fountain drinks at no cost.
In addition, the Penguins are offering "half off" all merchandise at the CONSOL Energy Center. According to the release, that 50% offer is for all merchandise, not just a select group of items as you might expect. Now we're talking.
The team is also running various contests that will award fans tickets, autographed memorabilia and merchandise. Finally, the club will be handing out promotional items at each of the team's first 15 games.
Florida Panthers
The team is rolling out a "7th man" initiative which will allow fans to purchase tickets for as low as $7. They also will have various other promotions linked to the "7th man" campaign throughout the year.
Dallas Stars
The Stars are reportedly planning to allow children ages 12 and under in to all Dallas Stars games in the months of January and February for free.
Details of the promotion haven't formally been released, but that's the current word on the street…well, on the Internet. If true, that's one great value for a family that's looking to have a family night out.
Tampa Bay Lightning
As if the Tesla coils and the recently added giant scoreboard weren't enough of a draw for fans of the Lightning, the team is offering season tickets for just $200. There are limited quantities of $200 season tickets available, but it's still a pretty remarkable offer.
Based on a 48-game schedule, the Lightning will have 24 home games. That boils down to just over $8 a game. Still not convinced? The Lightning are also throwing in a $25 gift card that can be used in the team's store.
Nashville Predators
The Predators are reportedly giving everyone that buys a ticket to the home opener a ticket to the second game of the year as well.
It's hard to stay mad at free tickets, but if you need additional incentives, the team is offering 1/2 price soda and select domestic beers for the first two games. Cheap beer usually heals all wounds.
LA Kings
The Kings are going a slightly different route but they might be spending the most money. The team announced through Twitter that they would donate $1 million to local charities in the Los Angeles area as a way of giving back and saying they're sorry.
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If we missed what other teams are doing to make amends for the lockout, leave a comment below and we'll add it to the list.
Photo Credit: Press of Atlantic City
