Franchise relocation is always challenging. It’s an uprooting of identity and community, pure and simple. However it isn’t uncommon, and it frequently turns out well.
For instance, the 2021 Super Bowl Champions, the Los Angeles Rams, have been a notable threat since their relocation from St. Louis. The Oklahoma City Thunder have been a perfect franchise since they took over from the Seattle Supersonics.
It can work; it has worked. When it came time for the Oakland Raiders to leave and head to Nevada, the question was, would it be for the better?
The Financial Motive
The Raiders didn’t relocate just for the love of the game; they were chasing revenue. Their value has skyrocketed since the move to Nevada. What helps is Allegiant Stadium, which seats a meaty 65,000 roaring Raiders fans.
It was a key reason they moved from Oakland: they couldn’t get permission to renovate their old stadium or relocate within the city. They had to leave to improve their infrastructure. And, you know what, it’s worked. But as the saying goes, “mo’ money, mo’ problems.” The Raiders have had to navigate a minefield of challenges and are looking healthy out the other side!
Attracting a New Audience
While Oakland has its well-established and rooted culture and credentials to be a host city for a major American sports franchise, it isn’t Vegas. What Vegas can do for a franchise has a potentially higher upside than Oakland.
In today’s age, views and engagement are king. The iGaming industry is a clear example of how to embrace that Vegas vibe. Leading operators are bound to offer competitive customer-centric perks – from the top US casino bonuses to exciting new games – but it often boils down to how they portray a culture they know and want. Can an online platform distill Vegas to its purest essence and ensure users feel that? If the answer is yes, success. If not, well, good luck.
The On-Field Push
On the field, well, the Raiders are still finding their feet. Their 2021 Playoff run did a lot to get things looking rosy. (In fact, it was a year for relocated teams to do well in the post-season, with the Las Vegas Rams lifting that most coveted trophy.) However, around that one stretch, it’s been mixed. Winning isn’t everything, but this is Vegas, after all, and why else would anyone come to the city? The Raiders need those dubs regularly, not simply to make up the league’s numbers. The top US casinos don’t rate the Raiders as Super Bowl contenders for the upcoming season and are still looking for a title challenge in the coming seasons.
Never Overlook Las Vegas
When has Las Vegas really ever been closed to outsiders? By definition, it’s Las Vegas. You’re encouraged to come and go, and hey, if you come again, you’ll be embraced just the same. It’s no surprise the Raiders have been very warmly welcomed—not least because before now, they hadn’t had an NFL team. To return the favor, the Raiders have been out and about in the community, shaking hands, kissing babies, and building goodwill.
Again, the stadium helps. It’s an attraction of almost alien proportions. They love big and shiny things in Vegas, and the Allegiant Stadium fits that bill very nicely.
The Road Ahead
We can be optimistic about the outlook, but simultaneously, it’s like trying to predict the outcome of a high-stakes poker game. On the one hand, the Raiders have a lot going for them – a fancy new stadium, a growing fanbase, and a city that knows how to party. On the other, they’ve got some stiff competition breathing down their necks, both on and off the field. It will take some severe hustle (and some hard graft) along with some bold moves to stay ahead of the game.
Our Two Cents
The Raiders’ relocation to Las Vegas has mixed reviews. We’re not in doubt that the move has been a financial boon for the franchise, but the jury’s still out on whether it will translate to long-term success on the field and in our hearts. One thing’s for sure, though – the Raiders have never been a team to play it safe, and their Vegas gamble is a testament to that spirit. They need to harness that ahead of the new season.
