For a long time -- what feels like a century to hockey fans - - we’ve been hearing rumors of about an NHL team coming to Seattle. Although it’s actually only been a couple years since we first heard whispers, Wednesday marked a monumental day in which we haven’t seen the likes of since 1999: the last expansion.
The NHL announced that it is officially accepting applications for a new franchise with Seattle, Las Vegas, and Quebec City being in the forefront of the race.
Applications are due by August 10.
Currently Seattle’s biggest problem is the lack of an arena; although this is does not mean we aren’t out of the running. So far our two biggest potential developers are Chris Hansen, a hedge fund manager from California, and Ray Bartoszek, an investment banker from Connecticut.
Hansen’s site would be in the Sodo district of Seattle, which has just finished its required environmental impact study (EIS). This would cost $200 million in public funds and would also depend on the opening of an NBA franchise in Seattle.
Bartoszek’s site would be in Tukwila and would be privately funded. This site just started its EIS and would be able to start production as soon as it’s rewarded a franchise team. Although keeping the arena near CenturyLink field would further Seattle’s “Go Team” feel, is that worth $200 million of our money? Moreover, would finding an NBA franchise prove to be another difficult hoop for Washington? A privately funded arena could mean higher costs in the long run to pay off the costs of building, meaning you’ll have to pay an inflated amount for your tickets or hot cocoa. At the end of the day, the NHL will make that decision.
Gaining a NHL team would bring Washington yet another way to make some money. Maybe more money would mean lower tuition rates (probably not but a broke college student can dream).
Setting the money aside, gaining another team would make Washington an even bigger and better competitor in national sports. Between the Seahawks and the Sounders, along with our lower level teams, it’s easy to say Seattle has it all.
We already have two Western Hockey League teams: the Thunderbirds, located in Kent, and the Silvertips, located in Everett. I would highly recommend attending one of our local teams to experience a fast-paced game even if you aren’t into hockey (yet). We also have Junior Hockey level teams in the NORPAC all over the state. The tickets are cheap and if you want to be able to learn about hockey, go to a Junior hockey game.
Whether or not you’re a hockey fan, get excited about the possibility of acquireing a new home team. We’ve been waiting for this opportunity for years and now it’s actually feasible. Personally, I can’t wait to see whether or not we are able to gain a new franchise.
