When word got out over the weekend that the final environmental impact statement was being pushed back, we also heard that Seattle Mayor Ed Murray had jumped into the fray to voice his frustrations. Perhaps that's because he had a meeting lined up with NBA and NHL top brass on Monday. The gist from both of those meetings was that while both leagues are keeping their eye on Seattle, neither appears to be in any rush to expand here.
"On Monday in New York City, on my way to the U.S. Conference of Mayors, I met for the first time with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver regarding the status of an NBA team returning to Seattle. While Commissioner Silver said Seattle remains a very attractive city for an NBA franchise with our NBA championship heritage and enthusiastic fan base, the league has no plans to expand at this time. The city will continue to do our part to bring NBA basketball back to Seattle. While in New York, I also met with NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman about the future of NHL hockey in Seattle. We are very keen on bringing an NHL team here, and the commissioner recognizes the value we would bring as home to a future franchise. We will continue to work toward that shared vision."
Chris Hansen's arena probably won't be officially approved until 2016 and the MOU with the city expires in 2017. All of which means, well, the dream might have to remain a dream for a while longer.
· Mayor Murray recently met with NBA, NHL commissioners in New York [SR]
· NBA to Murray: No Seattle Team in the Near Future [SR]
· Chris Hansen's Arena Might Not Get Approved Until 2016 [CS]
· Murray comments on discussions with NBA, NHL [Seattle]