Seattle mayor expects KeyArena to be NHL-ready by 2020

A potential NHL expansion franchise in Seattle will have a building to play in by 2020 - at least according to mayor Jenny Durkan.

"We think it can (be ready) and so does (Oak View Group). Every major project there's surprises, things you don't plan for and can't expect, and we know that and try to build in those contingencies. But our plan is to open in 2020," Durkan said, according to King 5's Chris Daniels. "We want it; they want it. I think we are going to have the best arena - I think in America."

KeyArena is currently undergoing a $700-million renovation in preparation for an NHL expansion team. It's home to the WNBA's Seattle Storm and is the former residence of the NBA's now-defunct Seattle SuperSonics.

A vote to grant an expansion franchise to Seattle and prospective owner Oak View Group is expected to take place at the league's board of governors meeting next week. It's uncertain whether the potential team would play its inaugural season in 2020 or 2021; the league may lean towards the former if the arena is ready for action.