West Loop Businesses Cheering Months After A Lockout Shortened Season Hurt Bottom Line

CHICAGO (CBS) -- When the National Hockey League locked out its players association in mid September, it had quite the effect on businesses that rely on hockey games at the United Center.

"It was brutal. We were worried," said Dave Neuhauser, Owner, Crossroads Bar & Grill.

He says revenues for bars and restaurants in the West Loop area were down 25 percent from September until January.

"Everybody got hit when the lockout began," he said.

But when the lockout ended and the Hawks season started mid January, things began to pickup especially in the last few weeks. He says his business depends on the team's success.

"For us here, literally we might as well be on the team. I get so stressed out for these games sometimes I don't put my head up to watch it."

Nuehauser says he's obviously hoping the Hawks can win the championship but he wouldn't mind if the teams took it to seven games.

"If these boys can do this again, it'll make my life a lot easier."

CrossRoads Bar & Grill holds about 175 people at capacity. He says he expects a full house again this week.