Kelly's Pub in downtown Edmonton is available at Edmonton Oilers Playoffs.
Manager Scott Krebes told Global News that calls to book the Stanley Cup Final are coming in more and more.
“An hour before the first game, someone called and asked if we could get a seat? No chance,” Krebes said.
“An hour before the game, there weren’t many places to sit downtown because everyone was so excited.”
Krebes said his bar patio was even packed during the first game — despite temperatures in the single digits during the game.
The fans' enthusiasm has not diminished.
Some Edmontonians made sure they prepared their game-day plans well in advance to avoid last-minute crowds, including reserving tables a week out.
“We have time set aside for Games 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. We get calls for every game,” Krebes said.
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“As of Monday, we already have about 50 reservations.”
The loss in the first game did not dampen the excitement.
“I feel pretty confident. The first game is nothing, we have the next game,” said an Oilers fan at Saturday's ice viewing party.
Another said: “There's still a lot of hockey to be played.”
Reid Wilkins, host of Inside Sports on 630 CHED, said the Oilers’ performance in Game 1 on Saturday night backs up that confidence.
“They played at a good tempo and were near the net a lot,” Wilkins said.
“I think after the first game, they’re not going to sweat it out about how to put pressure on the Florida Panthers.”
He reminded fans to cherish this moment.
“Enjoy the intensity. Enjoy the game. They're in the Stanley Cup Final,” Wilkins said.
They seem ready to do something with restaurants and bars.
That means Krebes will continue to answer calls and take reservations.
© 2024 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.
