Donald Trump on Monday said that he is "willing to put up some of his own money to help build a new stadium" for the Bills if his bid to buy the team is successful. Trump added that his employees already have "scouted out potential sites for a new stadium, though he declined to name them." Trump said that if he is the winning bidder, he would be "willing to contribute to the financing of the facility, although he also stressed that public financing would likely be part of the package as well." Trump added that he would be "willing to sign a long-term lease on a new Bills stadium that included severe financial penalties for relocating the team" (BUFFALO NEWS, 5/28).
WHEN OLD BECOMES NEW: In DC, Zac Boyer notes Capitals Owner Ted Leonsis yesterday introduced new GM Brian MacLellan and "acknowledged that he originally said the franchise needed fresh leadership" following VP & GM George McPhee and coach Adam Oates' ouster. MacLellan previously served as Capitals Assistant GM, but Leonsis said that he was "impressed by MacLellan's interview and resume, especially [in] regards to his scouting experience." Leonsis acknowledged that he "never knew MacLellan outside of a cursory handshake at team events," but said that he was "impressed that MacLellan began his interview by pointing out what Leonsis needed to improve upon as an owner" (WASHINGTON TIMES, 5/28).
ONE STEP AT A TIME: In Memphis, Ronald Tillery notes Grizzlies coach Dave Joerger yesterday "received a contract extension" when Owner Robert Pera "guaranteed a fourth-year team option and added another season to the deal." Now that Pera has "retained the team’s coach he is expected to cast a wide net in search" of a GM. The process of "finding a person to effectively replace" former CEO Jason Levien "will be deliberate." Staffers were told "not to expect a hire anytime soon." Interim GM Chris Wallace is a "candidate for the job and considered a valued member of the organization." Pera on Sunday during a Twitter chat with fans said, "Whether we decide on Chris or not for GM, I want him in the organization in some capacity" (Memphis COMMERCIAL APPEAL, 5/28).
