Celebrity bidding war for Ottawa Senators could be a boon for the franchise: experts

A celeb bidding struggle for a minority possession stake within the NHL’s Ottawa Senators stands to raise the staff’s profile to new heights, whereas serving as a secure means for stars to park their cash.

Experts say that whereas some hockey followers could also be shocked to see names corresponding to Ryan Reynolds, Snoop Dogg and reportedly The Weeknd throw their hats into the ring, the chance to personal one in every of simply 32 NHL groups would not come round typically.

Associate professor of sport administration at Brock University Michael Naraine says having one of many celebrities concerned within the Senators would give the jap Ontario franchise new publicity in non-traditional markets.

Reynolds, who has been hooked up to a bid value greater than US$1 billion led by actual property developer Remington Group, has expressed curiosity in making a tv collection in regards to the staff just like his manufacturing firm’s hit actuality present, “Welcome to Wrexham,” in regards to the Welsh soccer staff the actor co-owns.

The board of administrators of Senators Sports & Entertainment initiated the method to promote the staff final November after the demise of proprietor Eugene Melnyk, who left the franchise to his daughters Anna and Olivia.

May 15 marks the deadline for teams to submit last non-binding bids.

This report by The Canadian Press was first printed May 10, 2023.