Seattle hockey CEO says prospective franchise will make NHL pitch this fall
Those in charge of the potential NHL franchise in Seattle will get their chance to impress the league in the not too distant future.
“We now know that in early October we’re going to see the executive committee," Tod Leiweke, the president and CEO of the prospective team, told 950 KJR on Tuesday. "We believe that will be on October 2nd in New York City ... We then go in front of the entire membership of the NHL to make our case, and we’re going to be ready."
Leiweke reiterated that he isn't underestimating the importance of the meeting.
“We are not taking anything for granted," he said. "It would be an incredible honor to be the 32nd franchise, so we’re going to be prepared for that day and that test. We are right now building a spectacular presentation that we’ve been working on for weeks. I’ve never prepared like this for a presentation or meeting, and I’ve had a few in my career. This is an important moment because we owe it to the city to do our best.”
Leiweke left his previous post as the NFL's COO in March and was hired in his current role in April. He joined his brother Tim, the CEO of Oak View Group, which will serve as the team's owners if a franchise is granted.
HEADLINES
- Report: D-Backs sign Marte to $116.5M extension through 2031
- Embiid to undergo arthroscopic knee surgery
- Bears expand stadium site options to include Chicago, Arlington Heights
- Mets stars want Alcantara in Queens: 'Would almost be like adding Soto'
- Leiter helps Rangers blank Reds for 2nd straight shutout