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Notebook: Patrick surprised at low attendance
Joe Starkey can be reached via e-mail or at 412-320-7810.
He didn't expect an average attendance of just 11,960, either, but that's exactly what the Penguins were drawing though seven home games.
The drop-off of 3,181 per game was the highest in the NHL.
"I don't think we anticipated being this far off in attendance early in the season," Patrick said. "Typically, we're not a strong drawing market this time of year. It usually picks up once we get to the holidays, but we didn't expect to be this far off."
On whether the attendance affects personnel decisions, Patrick said, "It affects business, for sure."
BOILEUA ROOM
Newly recalled defenseman Patrick Boileau was a stellar plus-7 with eight assists in 13 games at Wilkes-Barre/Scranton before the Penguins recalled him this week.
"He had an excellent camp for us," coach Eddie Olczyk said. "I think he'll bring another element to our club that we're looking for -- a guy who can move the puck."
Boileau, 28, struggled in the first period Wednesday night, as the Minnesota Wild's first goal bounced off his leg after he made a turnover along the boards. He also was whistled for high sticking.
Boileau has played in only 33 NHL games but believes he has a future in the league.
"I make a pretty good first pass and can jump into the attack," he said. "It's my dream to play in the NHL. I'm going to try to make the best out of it."
DAIGLE THRIVING
Olczyk wasn't surprised that Penguins cast-off Alexandre Daigle went into last night's game tied for the Wild's lead in goals with five.
"It seems like he's enjoying himself." Olczyk said. "I'm sure he's going to come in with a little bit of a swagger and a little bit of an edge. We have to be aware of him, no question. He can do a lot of things. He's playing their system. I think it has a lot to do with the coaches there, as well."
KARPA JOINS WILKES-BARRE
Wilkes-Barre/Scranton yesterday signed veteran defenseman Dave Karpa to a 25-game tryout contract.
Karpa, 32, split last season between the New York Rangers and their American Hockey League affiliate, the Hartford Wolf Pack.
In 19 games with the Rangers, he recorded two assists and 14 penalty minutes.
SCRATCHES
The Penguins played without Mario Lemieux (hip), Dan Focht (finger), Michal Rozsival (knee), Marc Bergevin and Steve Webb. Patrick on Lemieux, who is expected to miss at least two more games: "He's getting better. We're hoping to get him back as soon as we can." ... The Wild played without Brent Burns, Darby Hendrickson and Alex Henry.
