In an attempt to help IHL Aeros Owners Chuck Watson and
Robert McNair obtain an NHL expansion franchise, Houston
Mayor Bob Lanier "is considering building a downtown arena
without the Rockets as part of the deal," according to John
Williams in the HOUSTON CHRONICLE. Lanier "wants to strike
a deal" before the NHL announces its expansion cities later
this month, and NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has "indicated
Houston needs a new arena before it gets a team." Sources
tell Williams that on Monday, Lanier sent a letter to the
Rockets and Aeros saying that "if one franchise doesn't
accept a 50-50 deal on a new arena, he will proceed with
plans for a facility with the other franchise." Under the
scenario in which only the Aeros participate in an arena
deal, Lanier would "seek voter approval in November for a
facility that could accommodate both sports." If the
referendum passed, the city would "commence building a new
arena." If the Rockets "eventually decided they wanted to
play there, they could buy in under the same terms presented
the Aeros" (HOUSTON CHRONICLE, 6/11).
