Ted's Take

The Blogging Site of Ted Leonsis

Archive for November 14th, 2008

Clueless at ESPN…Again

Friday, November 14th, 2008

Check out this article

Last time I looked, the Caps were 12th in the NHL in overall attendance. Revenues are up by double digits, 25 percent. We were the second fastest-growing team in the NHL. We have increased our season ticket holder base dramatically. We have a sea of red at games and the NHL is booming too.

Now let us look at Disney, parent company of ESPN. Last quarter, Disney earnings were down 13 percent. The outlook is sobering. One analyst said it was “an ugly, ugly quarter.”

Overall revenues grew only six percent. ESPN ad revenues were down. Stock price is way down. Analysts are growing concerned about outlook. Layoffs are coming, big cuts everywhere. Now Sports Czar, what is it that you want to say about our team; our fans; and our outlook again? Your move.

“Mini Mass Hysteria” :-)

Friday, November 14th, 2008

Wait for it. Wait for it. “The sky is falling! The sky is falling!” Alex Semin is doing well!

When we re-signed Alex Semin to a two year extension early last season, I received many emails of outrage, complaint and rants - some with cuss words. The overall theme of the emails was “What were you guys thinking??”

So we re-signed Alex Semin despite hearing from many naysayers - I have kept many of your emails for a laugh - and then we re-signed Alex Ovechkin to a long term deal as well. I had thought the Mass Hysteria would be put to bed but NO. It is back. :-)

Alex Semin is in his first year of a two year deal and he is blossoming before our eyes. He leads the NHL in many statistical categories. Alex is locked up for this year and next year. He is very happy in DC.

Why not enjoy the ride? Just say NO to “Mini Mass Hysteria”.  :-)

Hipsters Unite

Friday, November 14th, 2008

If you are truly cool and relevant and leading edge, you will “get this”. Polka is in. Check out this film over the weekend. SnagFilms brings you films to help you become socially relevant now. :-) 

Thank You - That’s Very Nice of You

Friday, November 14th, 2008

Check out these wonderful words of encouragement here.