This story is a little complicated, and we have to look at a whole lot of factors. What we are really looking it are forces of business pressing on each other trying to get things done that are good for business but not necessarily good for sports fans.
The fact here is this Detroit is one of a few Major Sports cities that have separate stadiums for their NHL, and NBA teams. In act over the course of Detroit Sports History, the Pistons and the Red Wings have only shared an arena when the Pistons were new to Detroit, and then for only a brief amount of time. The Pistons were more known for sharing the Pontiac Silverdome with the Detroit Lions.
If we take a look at which stadiums make the most money, Forbes Sports Money recently conducted their yearly review, we see that 8 of the top 10 most profitable stadiums from 2009 where stadiums that are home to both NBA and NHL teams. They other two New Yankee Stadium, and Cowboys Stadium in Dallas were new facilities.
Now the Red Wings are in desperate need of a new stadium, and the lease on Joe Lewis Arena is due to expire. That means the Wings need to get something done.
Since the death of Pistons owner Bill Davidson, many have suspected that his widow will eventually sell that team. Now the Pistons play at the Palace of Auburn Hills which is an hour’s car drive from downtown Detroit, or where the other sports teams in Detroit play.
Now the Detroit baseball and football stadiums are located right next door to each other, and are located across the street from the Fox Theater. The Fox is a big time entertainment destination and is also owned by Tigers and Red Wings owner Illitch. In fact that building serves as the World Headquarters for his Little Caesars Pizza Empire.
He already owns a good deal of the land that is located directly behind the Fox, land that right now is bars and parking lots, and many logically assume this would be a perfect place to build a new stadium for the Wings.
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