David Zalubowski
One of the Atlanta Thrashers' lead owners added his voice to what those around the NHL were already saying - the team needs a sugar daddy with deep pockets or it will move.
Michael Gearon told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Tuesday that unless someone with money shows up soon who is willing to keep the team in Atlanta then it will be time to listen to this siren calls from Winnipeg and Quebec.
"If we are faced with that as the only alternative, that's what's going to happen," Gearon said. "I don't think there is an ability to stomach another $20-million in losses. We just can't do it. The reality is we need fans showing up and we need investors, or a primary investor."
The Thrasher owners are not tied to Philips Arena, which they also operate, by a lease, although the naming rights agreement gives Philips Electronics the right to walk away from the 20-year, $182-million deal if the Thrashers leave.
The entire Journal-Constiution story is here.