I think for the most part, fanbases across the country are going to be increasingly fickle if their teams don't look like winners. So many alternative entertainment options now.
Living in Chicago, during the Cubs' lean years you could find tickets for like $5-$10 and they are an institution.
Absolutely, not 'blaming' pittsburgh fans more than anyone else. I'd be considered a die hard by most people, rarely miss a game on tv. Went to game 7 in detroit, I've been to 13 different NHL arenas. That said, I only go to about 3-5 games a year in pittsburgh. Even if I had season tickets it would feel like a chore to go to even half of the home games.
The city is small and the wave can't continue forever, but we will be known as a city that doesn't support the team without a lemieux/crosby; it's coming.
Also this is off topic, but one of the games I went to this year, I watched two teenagers play on their phones for the ENTIRE duration of the game, while they were with their parents. I wasn't sure who I wanted to yell at more, the kids or parents. Pay huge money for lower bowl seats to play on their phone.
