June 27, 2013 - 2:03 PM
NEW YORK, N.Y. - NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman says the future of the Phoenix Coyotes is up to the Glendale City Council and out of the league's immediate control.
The board of governors discussed the Coyotes' situation at Thursday's meeting, but nothing was voted on.
If Glendale does not approve a deal with Renaissance Sports & Entertainment, the Coyotes could move in time for the 2013-14 season, Bettman and deputy commissioner Bill Daly said.
Daly said there were multiple relocation options available but declined to elaborate. Asked specifically about Seattle and the viability of Key Arena, Daly said it could house an NHL team.
Bettman said the league hasn't "ironed out or put into effect a plan B" if the Coyotes deal is not approved.
Meanwhile, Bettman received approval from the board to make an agreement to send NHL players to the Olympics. He is hoping that gets done at a meeting Monday.
Bettman did not give an update on proposed rule changes such as mandatory visors for incoming players and hybrid icing. He deferred to the NHLPA, which has its executive meetings next week.
News from © The Canadian Press, 2013