In a major development in the world of professional ice hockey, the Ottawa Senators have been acquired by a group led by Toronto businessman Michael Andlauer. The deal, which was announced on September 9th, 2020, is expected to have a significant impact on the future of the Senators and the sport of hockey in Canada.
Michael Andlauer is a well-known figure in the world of sports ownership, having previously owned the Hamilton Bulldogs of the American Hockey League and the Montreal Alouettes of the Canadian Football League. He is also a co-owner of the NHL’s Montreal Canadiens, making him one of the most influential figures in Canadian sports.
The acquisition of the Ottawa Senators by Andlauer’s group is a major coup for the franchise, which has struggled in recent years both on and off the ice. The team has not made the playoffs since 2017 and has been plagued by financial difficulties, with attendance at games declining and revenue streams drying up.
With Andlauer at the helm, however, there is renewed hope for the Senators. His track record as a successful sports owner and his deep pockets make him an ideal candidate to turn around the fortunes of the franchise. Andlauer has already indicated that he plans to invest heavily in the team, both in terms of player salaries and infrastructure improvements.
One of the key challenges facing Andlauer and his team will be rebuilding the Senators’ fan base. The team has struggled to attract fans in recent years, with many Ottawa residents choosing to support other Canadian teams such as the Toronto Maple Leafs or Montreal Canadiens. However, with a renewed focus on winning and a commitment to improving the fan experience at games, there is reason to believe that the Senators can once again become a beloved fixture in the Ottawa community.
The acquisition of the Senators by Andlauer’s group is also significant for the broader landscape of professional hockey in Canada. With two NHL teams now owned by Andlauer, he has become a major player in the sport and is likely to have a significant impact on the league as a whole. His deep pockets and commitment to winning could set a new standard for other NHL owners, who may be forced to invest more heavily in their teams in order to remain competitive.
Overall, the acquisition of the Ottawa Senators by Michael Andlauer’s group is a major development in the world of professional hockey. It represents a new chapter for the Senators and a renewed hope for fans of the team. And with Andlauer’s proven track record as a successful sports owner, there is reason to believe that the Senators could once again become a force to be reckoned with in the NHL.