The NHL's Nashville Predator Organization is close to changing ownership. Canadian billionaire Jim Balsillie has been in negotiations with current owner Craig Leipold for the past two-to-three weeks. Such a franchise, which has lost money for the last ten years, was long overdue for a shakeup. The question remaining is whether any potential deal would hinge on a clause seeking to relocate the club to a different state or perhaps even a different country.
Many feel that Balsillie intends to move an existing squad onto Canadian soil. Among his top options is a Hamilton market which has been overtly craving a professional franchise for years. Such leanings associated with the owner have made potential sellers wary. Mario Lemieux rejected Balsillie's $175 million offer to buy the Pittsburgh Penguins back in December.
While no deal is imminent as of yet, top Nashville employees are being alerted of new developments as they unfold. The Preds have failed to sell tickets in each season since their inaugral expansion year, and it was assumed that any future in Tennessee was doubtful.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
1 comment:
I imagine the ultimate idea is for him to put the team right where he lives. That would really shine on everyone in KW. I have a feeling the average income is higher in the KW area than Hamilton but that is just speculation. Let the Hamiltonians drive to the KW area than the other way around. The Copps Coliseum is dated and would need tens of millions in upgrades before being NHL ready? Hamilton is also closer to Toronto isn't it, KW is a good location for a lot of surrounding areas.
Post a Comment