Could the NHL soon be welcoming another new ownership group?
Not long after the Phoenix Coyotes and New Jersey Devils were sold, the Florida Panthers are reportedly on the verge of changing owners, according to the New York Post.
Citing “two sources close to the situation,” the Post said the prospective buyers are from New York, but was unable to confirm identities.
Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald claims the individual is Virtu Financial CEO Vince Viola, a New York-based businessman who was once a minority owner of the NBA’s New Jersey Nets.
Sportsnet’s John Shannon said he’s “hearing” the Panthers -- whose current majority owner is Cliff Viner -- are on the verge of being sold, adding there were two serious bidders for the team.
George Richards of the Miami Herald believes the club will remain in Sunrise, citing the NHL’s desire to make hockey work in the Miami-area market.
For those who asked, there are no plans to move Fla. Panthers. Team's arena lease runs through 2028.
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) September 18, 2013
Related: How the Panthers make money despite, er, losing money
