Hamilton Bulldogs 2022-23 Season Thread

[three dog night]

Far fetch idea but is it possible the Bulldogs share the Meridian Centre with the Icedogs or play out of Canada games Park at Brock University.

 

[Canadian Game]

Far fetch idea but is it possible the Bulldogs share the Meridian Centre with the Icedogs or play out of Canada games Park at Brock University.

I’ve wondered the same, or even the Paramount Fine Foods Centre in Mississauga. However, the PFFC also hosts the Raptors 905 in addition to the Steelheads

 

[Otto]

As a fan from another OHL city who has seen a facility have multiple renovations over the past 20+ seasons. I can assure you this 1. The Bulldogs likely won't be leaving Hamilton anytime soon there really isn't any over places on the map that could play host to an OHL team.

2. If the OHL had any plans on moving a team out of Hamilton I think you would see another place on the map start clicking their heels to get it.

3. Every decision that the OHL makes on its member teams has to go through the Board of Governors annual meeting and I don't see any indication that the OHL has any intention of moving a team like the Bulldogs anytime soon.

You may see them use a temporary home, say making temporary home and former OHL arena CAA Centre (Formerly the Powerade Centre home of the Battalion from (1998-13).

I understand that the fans wouldn't like maybe traveling 40 minutes out of there way for a season but the only other option would be to have the Bulldogs start a season on the road for an extended period of time like what the 67's did a number of years ago with TD Place Arena.

As far as my knowledge the OHL will allow teams to use facilities that are up to league standards and being in a former OHL facility maybe one of a few options the Bulldogs have. Or play a season like the 67s did when they renovated TD Place until renovations are complete.

Best of luck to the Bulldogs on getting their facility renovations completed.


I'll see myself out

You didn't read the article did you?

Opinion | Teams angry FirstOntario Centre renos will displace them for two seasons

Team operators say poor communication and late notice of this plan leaves them with little time to find places to play

www.thespec.com

Barring a miracle They won't be playing at First Ontario for two seasons. This does not bode well for the Bulldogs even if they find a place close by to play temporarily (although there is no suitable arena in close proximity) When Ottawa had to relocate to the Canadian Tire Centre due to renovations in their home arena. They lost a ton of fans and despite having some very good teams since coming back home. Hamilton hasn't had strong attendance to begin with.

This isn't good for the future of hockey in Hamilton, ownership will only allow so much bleeding of money.

 

[AttackSound]

You didn't read the article did you?

Opinion | Teams angry FirstOntario Centre renos will displace them for two seasons

Team operators say poor communication and late notice of this plan leaves them with little time to find places to play

www.thespec.com

Barring a miracle They won't be playing at First Ontario for two seasons. This does not bode well for the Bulldogs even if they find a place close by to play temporarily (although there is no suitable arena in close proximity) When Ottawa had to relocate to the Canadian Tire Centre due to renovations in their home arena. They lost a ton of fans and despite having some very good teams since coming back home. Hamilton hasn't had strong attendance to begin with.

This isn't good for the future of hockey in Hamilton, ownership will only allow so much bleeding of money.

This is unfortunate for the Bulldogs and the city of Hamilton. However even after read the article

The realistic are this, 1. Play 2 whole seasons on the road and share a facility with a nearby OHL city and play I'm the home cities off days and practice in a local or nearby facility.

2. Maybe the unfortunate thing is that they may end up leaving Hamilton all together. But with zero place to go. Unless the BOG are planning on sitting down and find an alternative solution for the Bulldogs this could be the start of a very sad turn of evens for the Bulldogs and their fans.

Unfortunate as it may be but I still stand by my earlier statement. Even after reading the article they may not have any other options. Find a temporary home or Hamilton may not have much choice but to look for a new city to call home.

Either way it could be a sad day for Bulldogs fans.

 

[Otto]

This is unfortunate for the Bulldogs and the city of Hamilton. However even after read the article

The realistic are this, 1. Play 2 whole seasons on the road and share a facility with a nearby OHL city and play I'm the home cities off days and practice in a local or nearby facility.

2. Maybe the unfortunate thing is that they may end up leaving Hamilton all together. But with zero place to go. Unless the BOG are planning on sitting down and find an alternative solution for the Bulldogs this could be the start of a very sad turn of evens for the Bulldogs and their fans.

Unfortunate as it may be but I still stand by my earlier statement. Even after reading the article they may not have any other options. Find a temporary home or Hamilton may not have much choice but to look for a new city to call home.

Either way it could be a sad day for Bulldogs fans.

A temporary home isn't going to pay the bills. They are barely getting 3,000 fans now, you'll be lucky to get half that playing in Niagara and you won't even get 500 playing in Mississauga/Brampton.

There are places to relocate permanently. Cornwall has been discussed as has New York state. It's a safe bet that this is being discussed by the BOG. They want to get this settled ASAP.

 

[Millpond]

A temporary home isn't going to pay the bills. They are barely getting 3,000 fans now, you'll be lucky to get half that playing in Niagara and you won't even get 500 playing in Mississauga/Brampton.

There are places to relocate permanently. Cornwall has been discussed as has New York state. It's a safe bet that this is being discussed by the BOG. They want to get this settled ASAP.

The Bulldogs owner may have bigger fish to fry.

 

[Otto]

View attachment 608753
The Bulldogs owner may have bigger fish to fry.

At which point you could start the Bulldogs moving back to Bellville rumors

 

[Helvigster]

At which point you could start the Bulldogs moving back to Bellville rumors

Belleville already has a hockey team

 

[Otto]

Belleville already has a hockey team

Anything else?

 

[Helvigster]

Anything else?

A little bit, but I'll get there. I just thought it was kind of funny that you suggested that the Bulldogs may permanently relocate somewhere else. That itself isn't funny, and it could very well happen. Considering that Andlauer is indeed interested in buying the Senators, combined with that he's now probably very upset with HUPEG, along with the city (but we all knew that), I think it's definitely a possibility.

What I did find funny however, was that you suggest that they may relocate to Cornwall. I don't know too much about the city, but I did look up details on their arena, and that arena is ironically older than FirstOntario Centre. Looking at a few pictures of the seating arrangement and the overall architecture of the arena, I think it could use some work before it should host an OHL team, temporary or permanent. So I don't know what's up with that.

In terms of if the Bulldogs permanently relocate, I think Western New York is the likeliest option here, even though that region itself holds some competition with other teams in different leagues. I'm sure Branch wants to capitalize in that region.

But Cornwall? Really? No offense to anyone that wants an OHL team in Cornwall, but that arena doesn't look too great.

And don't give me that with Belleville. I don't understand why people are still upset about the Bulls. It's been nearly 8 years, and they actually got a hockey team back (in a higher-level league mind you).

You seem very adamant on the idea of the Bulldogs permanently relocating, and very pessimistic about their future in Hamilton. Perhaps you want them to move? I'm not saying you do, it's just that you seem very keen on this as a possibility, while almost seemingly ruling out the possibility that they return.

I personally would like it if the Bulldogs returned after renovations were finished, because if they don't, the OHL will lose me as a fan (I know, I'm just one person and I won't impact their sales at all, but I'm sure this adds up to other fans in the city), and I'll probably have to focus most of my hockey attention on the Leafs. This team has been a huge part of me for the past 8 years, and I would absolutely hate it if they did not return.

But even if they don't, if the renovations are successful, I severely doubt that there wouldn't be a new tenant to replace the Bulldogs within at least a few years time. While I don't agree with keeping the capacity similar to what it is for now, I doubt the lower bowl will be consistently empty for sporting events. Or maybe it will, and then the low attendance problem was more than just an old arena in a sketchy part of town.

I read what you said about the 67's. I think the difference here is that Ottawa has an NHL team (that may be moving into the city later on) while Hamilton doesn't have that kind of competition. Maybe we could help each other here? What if Andlauer bought the Senators and relocated them to the newly-renovated FirstOntario Centre in a couple years? I see it as win-win. The 67's will get their attendance back, and hockey will still have a future in Hamilton (this is a joke that I couldn't help but make. I'm fully aware that the Senators are staying in Ottawa).

Other than that, no. Nothing else.

 

[Newbie Observer]

Brampton, Waterloo (would need Kitchener ok), Brantford for temporary locations for two years.

 

[HockeyPops]

and I'll probably have to focus most of my hockey attention on the Leafs.

You might regret that more than them in the end.

The Ed Lumley in Cornwall had a big refurbishment in 2008. Has anyone been in there since then?

 

[Otto]

A little bit, but I'll get there. I just thought it was kind of funny that you suggested that the Bulldogs may permanently relocate somewhere else. That itself isn't funny, and it could very well happen. Considering that Andlauer is indeed interested in buying the Senators, combined with that he's now probably very upset with HUPEG, along with the city (but we all knew that), I think it's definitely a possibility.

What I did find funny however, was that you suggest that they may relocate to Cornwall. I don't know too much about the city, but I did look up details on their arena, and that arena is ironically older than FirstOntario Centre. Looking at a few pictures of the seating arrangement and the overall architecture of the arena, I think it could use some work before it should host an OHL team, temporary or permanent. So I don't know what's up with that.

In terms of if the Bulldogs permanently relocate, I think Western New York is the likeliest option here, even though that region itself holds some competition with other teams in different leagues. I'm sure Branch wants to capitalize in that region.

But Cornwall? Really? No offense to anyone that wants an OHL team in Cornwall, but that arena doesn't look too great.

And don't give me that with Belleville. I don't understand why people are still upset about the Bulls. It's been nearly 8 years, and they actually got a hockey team back (in a higher-level league mind you).

You seem very adamant on the idea of the Bulldogs permanently relocating, and very pessimistic about their future in Hamilton. Perhaps you want them to move? I'm not saying you do, it's just that you seem very keen on this as a possibility, while almost seemingly ruling out the possibility that they return.

I personally would like it if the Bulldogs returned after renovations were finished, because if they don't, the OHL will lose me as a fan (I know, I'm just one person and I won't impact their sales at all, but I'm sure this adds up to other fans in the city), and I'll probably have to focus most of my hockey attention on the Leafs. This team has been a huge part of me for the past 8 years, and I would absolutely hate it if they did not return.

But even if they don't, if the renovations are successful, I severely doubt that there wouldn't be a new tenant to replace the Bulldogs within at least a few years time. While I don't agree with keeping the capacity similar to what it is for now, I doubt the lower bowl will be consistently empty for sporting events. Or maybe it will, and then the low attendance problem was more than just an old arena in a sketchy part of town.

I read what you said about the 67's. I think the difference here is that Ottawa has an NHL team (that may be moving into the city later on) while Hamilton doesn't have that kind of competition. Maybe we could help each other here? What if Andlauer bought the Senators and relocated them to the newly-renovated FirstOntario Centre in a couple years? I see it as win-win. The 67's will get their attendance back, and hockey will still have a future in Hamilton (this is a joke that I couldn't help but make. I'm fully aware that the Senators are staying in Ottawa).

Other than that, no. Nothing else.

I have no skin in the game at all. Just stating locations that have been mentioned before with Cornwall and New York state generally being at the top of the list. Chatham has also been mentioned but I would think the OHL wants to keep the franchise in the east. As for Belleville it was kind of tongue in cheek, although with the connection to the Senators it could work. The fact that the Baby Sens play there is irrelevant with the exception of the competition for the entertainment dollar. Logistically it could easily work with the right marketing ( see Guelph.. worst in the OHL standings but show the highest increase in attendance over 2018/19 and have the 2nd highest capacity rate )

Regarding the 67s demise in attendance, the fact that Ottawa also has the Sens doesn't enter into it. The 67s were averaging over 7000 fans before having to relocate to the NHL arena for a spell. They finally crept up over 4000 per game in 19/20. The temporary move hurt. People found other places to spend their money. Hamilton 10 year average is 3046. They cannot afford to take a hit. Brantford, Burlington, and Mountain arena are not options. Neither is a temporary move to Niagara, Brampton or Mississauga... unless the team really wants to bleed money, because you know as well as I do, Hamilton fans are not going to battle that GTA traffic to get to a game.

Back to Cornwall for a moment, they have a capacity for hockey of 4800 that puts them ahead of 6 other OHL teams.

 

[OMG67]

What about Brampton as a temporary location? I know it isn’t ideal but at least it is an OHL calibre rink. They’d likely lose money in the short term but with a renovated building in Hamilton, they’d probably get a honeymoon period if/when they move back.

Also, if Brampton were considered a “temporary” location, maybe they’d have a little more time to find a better permanent location if that location is not going to be Hamilton.

We also need to remember that Hamilton currently plays in the East Division of the Eastern Conference. Hamilton will need to stay somewhat close, otherwise there may be a requirement to realign divisions and I really don’t think anyone wants that.

CORNWALL. This is a great option in many respects but Cornwall either needs a new rink or significant renovations. It is not suitable by any means. The 67s do exhibition games there int he pre-season and although it isn’t horrible, it is not comfortable at all. It is not set up well for amenities. The location and the foundation of the building are fine. If it went through a similar Reno as North Bay or Owen Sound then I could see it being viable. I’m just not too sure many towns have it in their budget considering the current economic climate.

 

[Jawk]

That Mo 10 was garbage. First time in their zone on the PP they wrap the puck around behind the net and the ref gets in the way for an easy clear. Mo gives it to him.

Next time down after the whistle they give him a 10 for his mouth guard. 100% the ref being emotional bruised.

 

[Otto]

That Mo 10 was garbage. First time in their zone on the PP they wrap the puck around behind the net and the ref gets in the way for an easy clear. Mo gives it to him.

Next time down after the whistle they give him a 10 for his mouth guard. 100% the ref being emotional bruised.

Big crackdown on mouthguards In the league right now. 3 called at the beginning of the second period tonight in London

 

[Rounder8]

That Mo 10 was garbage. First time in their zone on the PP they wrap the puck around behind the net and the ref gets in the way for an easy clear. Mo gives it to him.

Next time down after the whistle they give him a 10 for his mouth guard. 100% the ref being emotional bruised.

He literally chased him down like he had committed a murder.lol

Hamilton ran the same set play that they won last weeks OT game with and it worked like a charm again. Hayes just couldn't bury it this time.

Gutsy effort tonight.

 

[Jawk]

He literally chased him down like he had committed a murder.lol

Hamilton ran the same set play that they won last weeks OT game with and it worked like a charm again. Hayes just couldn't bury it this time.

Gutsy effort tonight.

100% recognized the set play. Would have been great. I thought they played hard.

That's a very good Ottawa team.

 

[Rounder8]

100% recognized the set play. Would have been great. I thought they played hard.

That's a very good Ottawa team.

Ya, they're very solid.

A lot of speed up front. Very aggressive forecheck. Our D tend to overhandle the puck and they gave them fits, espcecially in the first period.

 

[StormWatcher]

When do you think Hamilton is looking at as their next window? Wondering if they would consider a trade centered around Donovan for Luchanko (Guelph's '06 1st rounder.)

 

[Rounder8]

When do you think Hamilton is looking at as their next window? Wondering if they would consider a trade centered around Donovan for Luchanko (Guelph's '06 1st rounder.)

Maybe, but I highly doubt it.

I think White, Morrison, Hayes, Winterton and maybe Grushnikov would go first.

I'm not a huge fan of Donovans game, but I would imagine the team will want to build around him.

 

[Hamilton Bulldogs]

The team looks a lot better with White but still have some work to do.

 

[Canadian Game]

Despite the losses, I’m overall happy with how they played against Ottawa and Saginaw this weekend. Sure, there were mistakes. But they didn’t give up in either game and made a push with late goals. Plus they didn’t get completely blown out by two very strong teams.

 

[Rounder8]

Despite the losses, I’m overall happy with how they played against Ottawa and Saginaw this weekend. Sure, there were mistakes. But they didn’t give up in either game and made a push with late goals. Plus they didn’t get completely blown out by two very strong teams.

Honestly, it's for the best if they lose anyways. I still cheer for them though.

Anybody else notice that the Championship banners have been removed?

 

[Hammer9001]

Honestly, it's for the best if they lose anyways. I still cheer for them though.

Anybody else notice that the Championship banners have been removed?

They keep messing around with them and the Rock banners. Sometimes they are on one side, sometimes they are hanging from the top rafters, sometimes the top deck. I just wish they'd just make one side of the arena scoreboard is for the Bulldogs (and keep the AHL banner up) and the other side is the Rock and be done with it. If the CEBL ever gets a banner, I dunno, hang it from the middle.