Here is an interesting story on the Phoenix Coyotes situation. Really no shock here, NHL butt head Gary Bettman exploiting both citys to further his failing agenda. My question is how long does the NHL go one with this charade? When does the NHL decide to pull the pin and move the club to Winnipeg?
If there was any doubt about the shamelessness of the NHL when it comes to the Phoenix Coyotes, it was erased last Thursday when commissioner Gary Bettman had an ultimatum delivered to the city officials of Glendale, Ariz.
Show us proof you have $25-million (all currency U.S.) available to cover the Coyotes’ operating losses next season, the suburban Phoenix community was told, or we will sell the team immediately to someone who will move it. Glendale city council member Phil Lieberman said Tuesday they were not told who was buying the Coyotes or where they were going, but he found out the destination was Winnipeg.
The ultimatum was made one week after Bettman dismissed reports he had a backup plan to sell the Coyotes to True North Sports and Entertainment of Winnipeg. “Rampant speculation that has no foundation,” Bettman said in one interview.
But there was Bettman’s henchman, deputy commissioner Bill Daly, dropping a Winnipeg grenade into the lap of Glendale city manager Ed Beasley. Cough up $25-million or we’re out of here.
Officials from the city of 250,000 were given until 5 p.m. Friday to produce the $25-million guarantee, according to one source. They caved at 4:45, with 15 minutes to spare. [Read the rest of the story]
Please stop. There isn't currently a NHL rink in Winnipeg.
ReplyDeletePlease stop what? I am reporting the facts. Yes there is. There is a new arena called the MTS. The Group in Winnipeg has already been given the go ahead if there no owner is found in Phoenix to keep the team there.
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure if an arena that seats only 15,000 is going to be sufficient for the NHL. Besides, winnipeg has the Moose right now and having to change the logos in the ice several times a week would not work out too well.
ReplyDeleteNO there is not a NHL arena in Winnipeg! Currently MTS stadium ONLY seats 15,003. If by chance the city acquired a team they would have the lowest capacity total in the NHL. Ironically the next lowest capacity would be the Islanders Nassau Coliseum's 16,297 who happen to be looking for a new arena. Sorry until the city of Winnipeg steps up and expands everything you report is moot.
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