If I'm the Flames, I go to the NLL and say "$1.4 million for the team when you revoke Bannister's ownership for not paying his players." Then just remain completely silent until it happens.
As for why the Flames would own the team - it is still 8-10 dates that fill the Saddledome's calendar, and they draw attendance similar or slightly higher than the typical Hitmen game at a higher price point. If they own the team, they can reduce costs by incorporating the office with the Flames/Hitmen staffers.
I doubt they would ever turn large profits (or hell, any profit), but it is a family sports entertainment event and fits what they do.
But yeah, Bannister needs to take the hint and exit stage left. His own ego has become bigger than the team, and that, more than anything else, will kill the Roughnecks.
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