The clock could start ticking on the Thrashers this week.
On Tuesday, the city of Glendale will vote on whether to pay another $25 million to the NHL. That money would be used by the Phoenix Coyotes, the league-owned team, rescued from bankruptcy in 2009, for operating expenses and would keep the financially struggling team in Arizona for one more season. According to several media outlets, the proposal is expected to pass.
Last week the city of Glendale paid the NHL $25 million for operating losses for last season.
Atlanta Spirit co-owner Michael Gearon Jr. told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution in February and again last week that there is a “sense of urgency” to find a buyer for the Thrashers. Relocation is a possibility if a buyer is not found to keep the franchise in Atlanta. With the situation in Phoenix settled for at least another year, True North Sports and Entertainment, a group interested in purchasing the Phoenix franchise and moving it to Winnipeg, Manitoba, could turn its attention to the Thrashers.
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