Re: Cincinnati IHL / AHL I live in Cincy, and yeah there was some cannibalism there, but each team didn't help themselves either. The Cyclones (IHL and now ECHL) had a good fan base. Ownership thought that moving them downtown to a newer and nicer arena would be a hit, but because of the somewhat isolated location, lack of parking, and cost of parking (previously free), this put a lot of attendees out. The moving also ushered in the AHL Ducks, who went into the old arena -- Cincinnati Gardens. Folks, the name "Gardens" is the complete opposite of the actual arena, unless there is a definition that means "smell of urine" or "dingy painted wooden seats" or just a general ickiness, not to mention its not in the greatest part of town. The failure of the Cyclones (who are back in business this year) and the departure of the Ducks was probably also aided (but not a huge amount) by the arrival of the Blue Jackets. Downtown Cincy to downtown Columbus is only about 1.5 hours. Good luck to you guys, I think an NHL team would be a good fit for Houston. And since I'm potentially moving there, I'd REALLY like to have a team nearby instead of driving to Dallas.
