It's all but guaranteed. While I agree that Winnipeg
was not the only location being considered a few months ago, It is the only workable relocation solution left at present vs. KC, Seattle, LV, Hamilton etc...
Winnipeg - Has the ownership group standing by (quick closure needed for scheduling 11/12), operational 15,000+ NHL ready arena, no objections/injunctions marring a pending relocation to area.
KC -
No ownership group at present, has arena available (unsure of hockey readiness), may draw objections from the Blues over territory which could cause issues selling THAT team.
Seattle - No ownership group, 15,000+ cap arena, may draw objections fron VAN over territory (unlikely though)
Las Vegas - No ownership group, no NHL arena, also in the desert (fool me once...)
Hamilton - No ownership group (other than Balsille
), Copps coliseum is not NHL ready ($200M in renos needed), will most definately draw objections form TOR & BUF regarding territory rights.