Ken Sim has put the Vancouver Canucks' head coach in an awkward spot by admitting he would rather avoid playoff games in the city.
The Vancouver mayor told Kenneth Chan that his view changes depending on whether he speaks as a fan or as the person responsible for public safety.
As a supporter, Sim wants the Canucks to reach the Stanley Cup Final and win Game 7 in overtime.
As mayor, he said he doesn't want them playing a single postseason game because of the security pressure and costs tied to large crowds.
Sim argued that managing a deep run would cost Vancouver millions of dollars. That explanation immediately drew criticism from hockey fans.
The quote landed poorly because Vancouver is preparing to host 7 FIFA World Cup matches at BC Place while its mayor questions whether the city can manage local playoff celebrations.
"As a fan, I want to see the Canucks have an exciting run and make it to the Stanley Cup Finals, and hopefully win in Game 7 in overtime. As the Mayor of Vancouver, I do not want them to play a single game in the playoffs because the stress that it causes for safety," Sim said.
Vancouver mayor faces major backlash after Canucks playoff comments
The memory of the 2011 Stanley Cup riot clearly shapes the city's approach. That night still hangs over every discussion involving downtown watch parties and large hockey crowds.
But asking the Canucks to miss the postseason isn't a public-safety plan. It shifts responsibility away from city leadership and places the burden on the team and its supporters.
A playoff run would also create major business across Vancouver. Hotels, restaurants, bars and retail stores would all benefit from several weeks of packed streets and increased spending.
Sim has already shown caution around public gatherings. During a previous Canucks run, outdoor watch parties were moved away from the downtown core to locations such as Oak Meadows Park.
That approach may continue if Vancouver returns to the playoffs. The city could limit downtown events, increase security and direct fans toward controlled viewing areas.
The Canucks now carry an unusual storyline into the season. Their supporters want meaningful spring hockey, while the mayor has publicly admitted that a long run would create problems he would rather avoid.
Sim may believe he was speaking candidly about costs and safety. Instead, he gave Vancouver fans the impression that their city welcomes global events more easily than its own hockey team's success.
Source : Vancouver mayor admits he wants the Canucks to miss the playoffs for a ridiculous reason
Was Ken Sim wrong to say he wants the Canucks out of the playoffs?
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