The Senators now have a new owner, as Michael Andlauer is reportedly set to buy the team, according to Bruce Garrioch.
Michael Andlauer Set To Buy Senators
Breaking: Sources say Michael Andlauer will be the new owner of the Ottawa Senators. #Sens
— Bruce Garrioch (@SunGarrioch) June 13, 2023
After a tumultuous past few months, the Melnyk family has finally sold the Ottawa Senators. The highest bidder is reported as Montreal Canadiens shareholder Michael Andlauer.
This comes after several ownership groups dropped out of the race, citing the long negotiation process.
Andlauer got into the NHL ownership business in 2009, purchasing a stake of the Montreal Canadiens. Before that, he purchased a majority stake in the OHL’s Hamilton Bulldogs in 2003.
He will also gain the top bidding slot for the LaBreton Flatts property, where he can build a new arena.
What This Means
The immediate impact of this is that the senators now have a stable future in Ottawa, giving fans confidence.
This also puts less stress on Pierre Dorion and the rest of the front office staff heading into the bulk of the offseason. With this, they can now focus on the future of Alex Debrincat, who is rumoured to be wanting out.
For a team like Ottawa which has faltered under skeptical ownership for a long time, it is relieving for them to see Andlauer buy the team. Under him, the Hamilton Bulldogs have won a Calder Cup in the AHL, and two OHL Championships. Considering this record with the Bulldogs, he will add a level of effort the Sens haven’t seen.
With him securing a spot for LaBreton Flatts, he can provide a much-needed arena for the Senators, considering the age and location of the Canadian Tire Centre being a concerning issue. With that, it is pretty much set in stone that the team will remain in Ottawa.
