Thinking ahead to the site of the 2011 NHL All-Star Game, NHL Commissioner thought back to the 2006 Stanley Cup Final hosted by the Carolina Hurricanes. Memories of Game 7 at RBC Center were especially vivid -- and noisy.
"It was the first professional sporting event that I'd ever been to where everyone stood for the entire game and that's a testament to the fans here who have learned to love the game," Bettman said.
It's also one reason Bettman believes Raleigh will be the perfect setting for the 2011 NHL All-Star Game. Bettman made it official Thursday during a press conference before several hundred 'Caniacs outside the arena.
"I think this is one of the fastest and wealthiest-growing areas of the country," Bettman said. "Having not just the national spotlight in the United States and Canada, but the worldwide spotlight, this event will shine a great light on a place that the rest of the world will get to see and admire. Raleigh has been a great place for hockey.