Quote:
Originally Posted by troutman
Explain.
The only reason I can think of is the US TV contract, which has never been worth that much to the NHL. League revenues would rise if the team moved to Winnipeg, the salary cap would go up, and players could be paid more, franchise values could increase. The NHLPA does not need the team to stay in Phoenix.
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I have to agree there. Right now, Phoenix is a revenue drain, and is costing the other teams money due to the ownership. They have no local TV ratings, and are negligible to Versus and NBC's coverage. One can argue potential for only so long.
The NHL needs a team in Phoenix only so long as someone is willing to own a team there. If Hulsizer walks away, then it might just be time to give it up. The NHL needed only to accomplish two things here: eliminate Balsillie's threat to the stability of North American pro sports, and make a good faith effort to find a local owner. They've achieved both. If they can't save the team itself, that is most unfortunate, but that is also outside of the BOG's hands.
Additionally there's no reason why the league couldn't return to the Phoenix market later - perhaps after the American economy begins to recover. Quietly seek an owner and give the market a new opportunity without the baggage.