While the hockey world focuses on the state of the Phoenix Coyotes’ ownership situation and possible sale, the St. Louis Blues could reportedly find themselves with new owners by the end of the week.
According to the Globe and Mail, two sources have said that an ownership group led by Tom Stillman is expected to purchase the Blues franchise, their American Hockey League affiliate Peoria Rivermen, and the management rights to the Scottrade Center for a sum of US$130 million. The deal would also include a share of the Peabody Opera House from Dave Checketts and TowerBrook Capital Partners LP, an investment fund.
The Blues are currently owned by Sports Capital Partners, led by Checketts, who is the chairman. Stillman has been a minority owner of the Blues since 2007.
The National Hockey League’s board of governors is expected to approve the proposal Tuesday, and the deal should be finalized on Wednesday, according to the report.
The team is coming off a successful season in which they finished second place in the Western Conference but were swept by the Los Angeles Kings in the second round of the Stanley Cup playoffs.
Blues management is not expected to be affected by the change in ownership going forward. This includes team president John Davidson, general manager Doug Armstrong, and head coach Ken Hitchcock.
