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Pens' Decision To Nix Big Screen For 1st Round Has Some Fans Upset

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – Playoff hockey has become something of a tradition in Pittsburgh.

For several years, thousands of Penguins fans would gather outside of the arena to cheer on the team on a big screen.

Now, that tradition is in jeopardy and some fans aren't happy about it.

"I wasn't happy about it. I know I love going. It's one of the big things I look forward to every year, so i was disappointed," Kelly Westerlund said.

On Monday, the team announced it wouldn't be putting up the traditional big screen outside of Consol Energy Center for the first round of playoffs.

"I think it's ridiculous. I think fans should have that. They've had it for six years and they don't have it now. I'm from New York. Rangers have things like that and a city like this a hockey city. They should have things like that," Adam King said.

According to the Pens, the decision was made because of construction at the former Civic Arena site and the loss of parking spaces.

The site is part of the Lower Hill District infrastructure project.

"They're obviously redeveloping. It's supposed to be good for the city, so I'm for it. If that's what they need to do, I understand," Jim Farrell said.

Mayor Bill Peduto said when he found out about the axe of the big screen for the first round, he decided to reach out to Penguins President and CEO David Morehouse to help with finding another location.

"It's still their intention to do the big screen on their site for the second round after we get past the Rangers and we're now in discussion to see if we can do something for the first round in a different location," Peduto said.

However, time is running out as the puck drops on Game 1 Thursday night.

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