Gary Bettman, the NHL commissioner, mentioned that Utah has shown the most aggressive interest in hosting an expansion team, but there are also preliminary interests from Cincinnati, Houston, Atlanta, and Omaha. However, he clarified that the NHL is not currently pursuing expansion. Meanwhile, NHLPA executive director Marty Walsh expressed concern and disappointment with the Arizona Coyotes' ownership over their arena situation, stating that the Meruelo group has refused to engage with the union on numerous fronts. Walsh also indicated frustration with the lack of communication from the Coyotes and encouraged a move to another location if there's no plan in Arizona, with Utah being a potential option.
Have a listen to find out if @JeremiahJensen & @AlexKirryKSL are more optimistic or less about Salt Lake getting an #NHL team after hearing what commissioner Gary Bettman said at his All-Star press conference. https://t.co/2NIXUIUl0j
Marty Walsh: "If there’s no plan in Arizona, I would encourage a move to another location, absolutely. If Utah’s the place, Utah’s the place. I’d encourage it. I haven’t seen the data to back it up if Utah’s the place. "
Marty Walsh expressed this frustration in lack of communication from @ArizonaCoyotes in our conversation last month as well, saying, “The PA is not a throwaway organization.” https://t.co/wB1Ujff5ey https://t.co/QhFqNVwTIn https://t.co/s73rAzXRoO
The NHL commissioner just called Utah’s bid for a team ‘aggressive.’ Here’s what else he said Story from @kelsey_dallas https://t.co/3UKIdMBbtm
Marty Walsh says the #coyotes have missed two deadlines already to move forward with an arena project. "How long do you wait to get a home? They're playing in a college arena and they're the second tenant in that arena. ... This is not the way to run a business."
#NHLPA executive director Marty Walsh says he’s “extremely concerned” and “disappointed” with #Yotes ownership over their arena situation. He says Meruelo group has refused to engage with the union on numerous fronts.
Bettman mentions expansion talks with representatives from Cincinnati. Bill Daly characterized them as “early.” Clearly Salt Lake City has been the most aggressive candidate for an expansion team but Bettman said the NHL is not currently in an expansion mode.
Gary Bettman is asked question about Utah and discussions there (in relation to possible expansion there). Says no formal expansion plans. Utah interest been most aggressive. But also have interest from Cincinnati, Houston, Atlanta, Kansas City, Omaha.
Gary Bettman says there's no active pursuit of expansion, but beyond Utah, the league has received at least preliminary interest from Utah, Houston, Atlanta, Cincinnati (!) and Omaha (!!).