FRANCHISE NOTES

          HABS SOLD? In Montreal, Jack Todd cites "rumours" that     the Canadiens might hold a press conference late today     announcing the sale of the team and the Molson Centre to a     group led by Bell Canada Enterprises (GAZETTE, 12/15).           TAKE A PEAK AT US: San Antonio Mayor Howard Peak, on     "courting" an NFL team to relocate to the city: "I will talk     to the Saints.  At this stage of the thing, I will call them     and let them know what we have and see if they are     interested in getting together" (S.A. EXPRESS-NEWS, 12/15).           NO BUZZ ANYMORE: Hornets coach Paul Silas offers his     view for the "diminished interest" in the team: "I sort of     liken it to a marriage gone bad.  You have to make up.  But     that means there has to be some forgiveness and there hasn't     been much forgiveness around here."  Hornets GM Bob Bass, on     the impact of the NFL Panthers on the Hornets: "I just don't     think this market is large enough to support two pro     franchises" (SACRAMENTO BEE 12/14).