The Ottawa Senators sale process is well underway, according to National Hockey League (NHL) commissioner Gary Bettman.
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When asked to comment on the filing during his Tuesday press conference at the Bell Center, the manager said businessmen interested in acquiring the Ottawa concession had completed documents and submitted bids. The team has retained Galatioto Sports Partners as financial advisors in relation to their interests. The company has also identified potential buyers and the Ottawa Sun reported that more than a dozen have come forward. However, that doesn’t mean they were all released to try their luck in the race.
“As far as I know, everything is in progress. Individuals who properly complete the required forms are acting in accordance with applicable legal requirements,” Bettman said.
The prospective owner who gets his hands on the club, which is owned by the estate of the late Eugene Melnyk – who died last March – must commit to keeping the Senators in Ottawa. In addition, the NHL will ask him to sign a lease with the National Capital Commission, which has jurisdiction over the LeBreton Flats field, where the team plans to build a new arena.