Bettman Downplays Indicators Of Lightning Financial Troubles

Lightning Co-Owner Koules And Commissioner Bettman Are Confident About Team's Future

Despite what would be seem to be "indicators of difficult financial times" for the Lightning, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said the team is "not ... in some sort of trouble," according to Damian Cristodero of the ST. PETERSBURG TIMES. Lightning Owner OK Hockey last month "restructured its $70[M] financing agreement with" former Owner Palace Sports & Entertainment, and is "asking St. Pete Times Forum employees to pay $30 a month to park and help pay a $250,000 yearly lease on the lot across the street from the arena." Also, "despite giving away an average of 2,500 tickets," the Lightning's "announced average attendance of 16,231 is 2,461 fewer than last season." Bettman said Lightning co-Owner Oren Koules "is completely confident, and I have no reason to give you any sense that would undermine the confidence that he's conveying to you." Cristodero noted Bettman's confidence "seems to be the financing deal." Bettman: "It's no secret that they did some financing on the deal, which is a good thing. It means the franchise is in solid financial condition." Koules recently said, "Are we making money? No. But are we bleeding like most people think we are? Of course not" (ST. PETERSBURG TIMES, 2/21).