A Seattle NHL team could be closer than ever as the Phoenix Coyotes will go up for sale. According to a report from Thursday night (Jan. 31), a prospective owner looking to keep the team in place was unable to come up with financing in time to meet a deadline.
Former San Jose Sharks CEO Greg Jamison was trying to get funding together to keep the team in Glendale, but it is being reported that he has not been able to get the money together in time. It's certainly possible that his Jan. 31 deadline gets extended, but it looks like the team could be put up for sale to a wider market now.
The NHL currently owns the Phoenix franchise, so they could choose to sell to any ownership group. After giving local owners an opportunity to keep the team in place, the Coyotes could be put up in a wider sale. This is where Chris Hansen and his group in Seattle could step in and acquire a hockey team for the Pacific Northwest. He is deep in negotiations to bring the Sacramento Kings of the NBA up to Seattle for next season and now he could potentially add an NHL franchise to the list.
A Seattle NHL franchise has long been sought, but nothing ever fell into place that could work for the area. Now that a group has stepped up with the intent of building a dual basketball and hockey facility, the National Hockey League may consider Washington State a viable market.
More Sports News:
Alex Rodriguez Retirement Drawing Close?
Comments