NHL Denies Relocation Policy Violates Canadian Law

Balsillie Could Face Relocation Opposition

The NHL said that it is “certain its franchise relocation practices and policies are in compliance with Canadian competition laws amid an investigation" by Canada's Competition Bureau watchdog group, according to Theresa Tedesco of the NATIONAL POST. NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly said, “We are confident that our existing franchise relocation rules and policies, as well as how they are interpreted and applied by the league, are legal and fully enforceable.” The Competition Bureau is “focusing on rules that provide the league and its member teams the ability to veto a move by another club to within an 80-kilometre radius inside their ‘home territory.’” An attempt by prospective Predators Owner Jim Balsillie to move the club to Hamilton or southwestern Ontario “would be challenged” by the Maple Leafs and Sabres.  Under existing league rules, the Maple Leafs could “simply veto the move regardless of whether it is supported by the other teams.” Maple Leafs Sports & Entertainment Senior VP/Communications & Community Development John Lashway said, “At this point everything is hypothetical unless, or until, we hear officially from the NHL" (NATIONAL POST, 6/7).