Casino News

Pittsburgh Penguins relying on casino approval

2006-11-29 16:02:12

The Pittsburgh Penguins NHL team's future could be reliant upon whether or not a local casino gets the go-ahead, it has been revealed.

The Isle of Capri casino chain is currently one of three applicants bidding for the right to be awarded a license to build a slot machine venue in Pittsburgh, all of whom have promised to contribute to the construction of a new ice hockey arena should they be successful.

However, the Isle of Capri is the only bidder to have promised to fund a replacement for the ageing Mellon Arena in its entirety &ndash assuring officials that it will build a new $290 million complex.

Under the terms of their contract, the Penguins are able to relocate from June 2007, but city officials are keen to keep the team on board, with some promising to keep the Penguins even if the Isle of Capri is not successful.

But NHL commissioner Gary Bettman has said that uncertainty surrounding the team's future could prompt a move.

"If the Isle of Capri doesn't get the license, then we've got a lot of uncertainty to deal with. I think it's best for everybody &ndash the franchise, the fans of the franchise &ndash if we're not dealing in uncharted, uncertain waters," Mr Bettman observed.

Isle of Capri owns casinos in 14 locations across the US, and is one of the largest publicly held gaming companies in the US.


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