The New Jersey Devils’ first playoff trip in five years has brought more hockey and more excitement to downtown Newark. And for local business owners, the first-round Stanley Cup playoff games against the New York Rangers have led to a nice boost in revenue.
“We have a full crowd every home game. Literally. We’re noticing more business with the playoffs, and it actually starts earlier. People come and stay here a lot earlier during the day,” said John Hrindo, part-owner of Ellie’s Bistro, which is less than a quarter mile from the Prudential Center, the Devils’ home arena.
“Businesses have a positive impact when teams make playoff runs. There’s watch parties, people are excited, they go for a social aspect, to be around other fans,” said Josh Lupinek, associate professor of sports marketing at Montclair State University. Lupinek estimates that each home playoff game brings $100,000 to $200,000 to Newark.
The Devils took a 3-2 lead in the best-of-seven series Thursday night with a 4-0 win over the Rangers. The sixth game in the series is at Madison Square Garden on Saturday.
