[Shoe]

I think it goes something like this:

1. See poker on TV.
2. Start watching poker on TV.
3. Buy chips and cards because of poker on TV.
4. Start playing poker yourself.
5. Buy more chips and cards.
6. Play more poker.
7. Stop buying chips and cards because you have enough to play with.
8. Play more poker.
9. Stop watching TV so you can play more poker.
10. Play more poker.
11. Play more poker.
12. Play more poker.
13. Play more poker.
14. Play more poker.

I could go on... there is a big difference between sales/ratings slump and a decrease in the actual number of players. Poker/gambling is an addictive/compulsive hobby/job/whatever that keeps everyone coming back for more.