Group Denies Reports That It Has Already Purchased Thrashers

True North Sports & Entertainment has denied a report from the Globe & Mail stating that the group "has reached an agreement" to buy the Thrashers, claiming that is "not accurate." But sources said that a deal "could be reached at any moment that will be conditional on league approval." A source indicated that the NHL BOG "will not approve a deal to move the franchise to Winnipeg until a test-market ticket drive is completed and they are satisfied the market is viable" (WINNIPEG FREE PRESS, 5/20). The initial report stated that "preparations are being made" for a Tuesday announcement of the sale (THEGLOBEANDMAIL.com, 5/19).

About 50 people, "many wearing Winnipeg Jets jerseys," gathered in the city's downtown last night to celebrate. Many in the crowd "waved flags bearing the old Jets logo and encouraged drivers to honk their horns, yelling, 'Go, Jets, Go'" (CP, 5/20).