NEW YORK — Wayne Gretzky’s agent is denying a report that the Great One is trying to bring an NHL team to Seattle.
The New York Post reported Friday that Gretzky is part of a group of investors working on a deal to bring either a new or existing franchise to the city.
Darren Blake, Gretzky’s agent, told The Canadian Press in an email that the 53-year-old Hall of Famer isn’t involved in any bid.
“As you can imagine prospective team owners from various franchises call frequently to gauge his interest in coming on board. Seattle is no different,” said Blake.
NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly declined to comment on the report.
There would be significant hurdles to clear if Seattle were to host an NHL franchise, starting with the lack of an arena.
Hedge fund manager Chris Hansen had plans to build one but only if he could have an NBA team as a tenant.
Those plans fell apart when Hansen failed to purchase the Sacramento Kings and his partner, former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer, dropped out after his tentative purchase of the Los Angeles Clippers.
NHL commissioner Gary Bettman has also said the league isn’t interested in expansion, meaning any prospective investors would need a team to relocate.
