Imagine if one of the original-six teams were to relocate, which do think would be the most likely to do so?

Question

The scenario. A billionaire from Europe or Middle East that had no care for history or tradition bought a team and relocated it to Vegas. Money is no object and the buying price is 2x the value of the club. Which owner or corporation would sell?

Answer 1

I would say the Rangers since New York already has three teams

Answer 2

guys... the Rangers aren't going anywhere... the devs and isles do not count as NY teams, everyone knows that.  they have one of the biggest fanbases in the league, the biggest in the US... they wouldn't be the one to relocate.

I understand the NHL's problems with the dolans and i understand your dislike for the team, but no.

Based on their low attendance the past few years, Chicago would be the one to relocate, I think.  In 2006 and 2007, they were 29th in the league in attendance.  In 2004, they were 27th.  (this year, they were 19th, while Boston was the lowest original 6 team, at 26th).  Or possibly Boston, since Chicago has a bunch of young stars that are drawing crowds.

EDIT:  sara, LOL... buffalo does not count either!  i lived in WNY, and they do not like to associate themselves with NYC.  Their fanbases have no overlap... there are a bunch of teams closer to NYC than buffalo (philly, boston, caps, habs...).  even though i know you were kidding, just thought i'd clear that up. :)

Answer 3

the Rangers, if it was going to happen. But if the league allowed something like this, then half the teams would be bought and moved overnight. In the real world, money and location are not what prevents this from happening, it's the league that would prevent such a scenario,

Answer 4

I think it would be the Rangers because New York will still have the Islanders!

Answer 5

Although anything is possible I just can't accept the idea of any O6 teams relocating. I suppose its up to the financial dynamics and how badly any owner wants to sell the team to be the determining factors. And that in and of itself makes it possible for any one of them capable of moving.

Answer 6

Vegas would burn before that happens..

Hypothetically-- Everybody would point at the Rangers or Bruins ..  Rags for current issues with the NHL and Bruins for attendance..

Tomjc-- Wanna know why Ballsacky cant buy a team?? Because he doesnt play by the rules.. He could be sued for using the NASHVILLE Predators logo to sell fictionary tickets for a not yet owned team..  THATS WHY!!!  Maybe he would make a great owner--- But let him get a team thru expansion.. Personally-- I hope I NEVER see the day that lying bag of douche water has the title of NHL owner PERIOD!!!!!

Answer 7

Greg I think Buffalo counts as the 3rd New York team :-P

But out of the original six, I'd say Boston based on attendance, but they do have a big history.  Chicago is an up-and-coming team, especially with all the young talent and now Huet and Campbell.  The Leafs, Canadiens, Rangers, and Red Wings all have a HUGE fanbase compared to the Bruins and Hawks.  I doubt minor issues with the NHL are going to relocate the Rangers when they have such a large fanbase.

Answer 8

If one of those guys from Waterloo Ontario can't buy the Predators how will one of the non bankrupt teams be bought. But if any good by Boston.