Hurricanes president Waddell: Low ticket sales 'not what it appears to look like'

A seemingly empty arena doesn't tell the whole story in Carolina.

While the Hurricanes rank 29th in average attendance this season (12,404), team president Don Waddell claims it's all part of a long game to increase actual revenue. 

In an interview with Chip Alexander of the News & Observer, Waddell said total ticket revenue could top last season based on a reduction in complimentary and discounted tickets.

“We are down, but not what it appears to look like,” Waddell said. “We’re putting more emphasis on our season-ticket holders.”

Additionally, Waddell explained that a decision to forego a papering of the house with faux tickets was made out of respect for the team's loyal fan base.

“More than half felt season-ticket holders had people sitting next to them were paying the lesser price for their ticket, and they felt that was not fair,” Waddell said. “We’re trying to do everything we can to protect their value while also trying to reach that individual ticket buyer.”

The real ticket, so to speak, is putting an improved product on the ice. With a record of 6-11-3, the franchise has failed to do so this season.

Captain Eric Staal acknowledged the smaller crowd while admitting it's up to the players to bring the fans back to the arena.

“You go on the ice and you always look around, that’s pretty normal,” Staal said. “You get a feel for that energy and see what kind of atmosphere you’re going to be in front of.

“Obviously it’s been a little less than in years past, but the ones that are there have been into the game. It’s loud and fun to play in front of. Hopefully we can win more games and we’ll get the people back."