Utah Grizzlies president/COO Jim McKinnon says the economic downturn is almost a "non-factor" for the minor-league hockey club, which is coming off its best season in a decade. It might even prove to have a positive effect, he said, because families might turn to local entertainment rather than forking over cash for vacations.

The Grizzlies even expect to put more spectators' seats in the E Center's seats this season. Despite what McKinnon calls a "nominal" ticket-price increase, the franchise is optimistic attendance will jump from 3,800 to 4,500.

"We'll have an uptick," he said. "Everybody's got to escape once in a while."

The ECHL discussed the economic situation during offseason meetings. The consensus is that season tickets will likely decrease but mini-plans and walk-up ticket sales "will pick up a little bit," McKinnon said.

The Grizzlies aren't planning any staff cuts or major expenditure scalebacks or increases.

"It's pretty much business as usual," McKinnon said. "We're in somewhat of a holding pattern until things settle."

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Contributing: James Edward, Associated Press

E-mail: jody@desnews.com