HOCKEY - Come Crash the Boards

[nightstocker]

NHLPA willing to wait out Sens' troubles

January 5, 2003 Print it


OTTAWA -- The NHL Players' Association is willing to be patient with Ottawa Senators majority owner Rod Bryden regarding the financial problems plaguing the team.

The Senators are reportedly $360 million in debt and missed their team payroll Wednesday after a deal to restructure the club's finances fell through.

In a statement released by the NHLPA on Saturday, union executive director Bob Goodenow confirmed that the players are willing to wait and see what kind of financing plan Bryden comes up with.

"Rod Bryden and the Ottawa club's recent financing difficulties raise important short- and long-term issues for the club's ownership group, the players and the league," Goodenow said.

"At present, all parties are focused working to resolve the short-term issues so the club can pay their ongoing operating expense."

NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said on Friday that he expects a short-term financing plan to be in place by the middle of next week. Under the terms of the agreement, Bryden would be able to meet all his obligations, including missed payroll for players.