http://www.csnnw.com/blog/dwight/trail-blazers-were-interested-purchasing-nhl-coyotes "But, according to a highly placed Portland Trail Blazer source, the Blazers were closely monitoring the situation, had been in discussions with the NHL and were ready to make an offer for the franchise in order to move it to Portland's Rose Garden, if the lease in Glendale didn't work out. The interest by the Blazers was considered serious, by the team and the NHL, with much time spent on financial analysis and projections. It is believed the team could consolidate several of its operations to serve both basketball and hockey while adding another full-time tenant for the arena." "Phoenix has been a problem market for the NHL. The arena in Glendale is considered remote for many Phoenix fans and the lease terms have been difficult. The NHL wants to keep the franchise in the West and a team in Portland or Seattle would be a nice travel partner for the current franchise in Vancouver. Long term, the league is said to be interested in franchises in both Seattle and Portland, setting up the regional rivalry that has been so integral in the growth of northwest soccer franchises." I'm happy to hear that Allen is still thinking about bringing an NHL team here. Having our own team in Portland is probably the only way I'd start following the NHL. Sorry in advance for linking to a Dwight Jaynes article. Be gentle
And the winner is BoBoBREWSKI: http://sportstwo.com/threads/240658-Blazers-were-interested-in-purchasing-NHL-Coyotes Let's be clear, he linked to Dwight Jaynes first.
