I was wondering the same thing. If I understand correctly he is saying that if they got rid of all the hockey teams in the west there may be room for expansion in Southern Ontario.

 

When I said 'these' candian teams I did not mean Edmonton or Vancouver specifically, just in general terms.

When Balsillie wanted to move the preds to Hamilton the board of governors did not allow this. Not because they did not want to, but because the canadian owners would veto any such move. They all vote together. This is done to prtoect their investment. On the flipside any expansion in the US would be welcomed with open arms. Make a team in St. Louis and no canadian owner would complain but push for one in winnipeg, alberta, south ontario, quebec and you get made hystery.

This is why the nhl has teams in Carolina, Nashville, anaheim... Who are all are 'struggling' to make profit yet are all taking playoff positions away from canadian teams.

Dont get me wrong. Im all for canadian sports and wish success to all canadian athletes.

/rant

 

Its actually not up to Canadian owners as a group where teams are placed in Canada... Its the teams already in Ontario and surrounding area that would kick up a stink. Canadians WANT more teams not less. There should be teams back in Winnipeg and Quebec, but thats a whole other story. Gary Bettman did not and WON'T ALLOW an American team to fold up shop and move back to Canada, because it would look like it is in some US cities, a colossal failure. Who wants to admit defeat? He is trying his best to sell the sport to people who watch cricket and indoor soccer along with croquet before hockey.

 

^ Unfortunately, I agree 100% with your post. IMHO, Gary Bettman has been nothing more than a cancer to the NHL since he started as Commissioner. I personally can't stand the guy whatsoever.