Gary Bettman, the NHL Commissioner, has a history of displaying favoritism towards certain teams, which has sparked debates within the NHL Board of Governors. One notable beneficiary of this trend has been the Arizona Coyotes, raising concerns among the league officials. However, Bettman's recent endorsement has shifted towards the Carolina Hurricanes.
The Hurricanes have clinched a 20-year lease extension at the PNC Arena, securing their presence until the 2043-44 season. The agreement encompasses substantial renovations, including the creation of an energetic sports and entertainment district. With investments totaling $300 million from the City of Raleigh and Wake County, the deal also involves Gale Force entering a ground lease for PNC Arena's surroundings.
Remarkably, Bettman's support includes commitments for significant events. Within three years of the renovations' completion, the NHL will bring another All-Star Game to Raleigh. Additionally, the Hurricanes are slated to host another Stadium Series Game within five years of the project's conclusion.
This noteworthy development comes as the Hurricanes invest $300 million into their locale and secure a promising future. Despite some smaller market teams like the Seattle Kraken feeling overlooked, this move underscores the NHL's balance between financial interests and game growth.
