The rest of the NHL will join the Senators in Ottawa this week.
Yesterday, crews began prepping Scotiabank Place for the 2008 National Hockey League Entry Draft, which starts Friday. The arena’s upper bowl will be open to the public and Aaron Robinson, the Senators’ director of fan and community development, said tickets are limited for opening night.
“If people are planning on coming to watch to the draft, we’re advising that Saturday would be a better time.”
Bill Miller, senior vice-president, events and entertainment, with the NHL, said more than 2,400 tickets have already been set aside for prospects and their guests in the lower bowl.
“Those guys who are expected to go in the top 10, they bring everybody,” said Miller. “Even their Aunt Sadie from Moose Jaw gets a ticket.”
At the ground level, 300 media spots will be set up. In front of them will be 30 team tables with 660 team officials.
“That’s what makes our draft unique. We have all the GMs and scouts in one building,” said Miller. “You can see them running from table to table, trying to make deals happen.”
On Friday evening, the top six prospects will be signing autographs outside in the Fanfest area that’s set up for the weekend. NHL trophies will be on display.
