Winnipeg’s new team faces economic realities

Associated Press

WINNIPEG, Manitoba

The NHL is returning to Winnipeg with a hefty price tag attached to the franchise.

There was no glossing over the harsh financial reality of operating a team in the league when the sale and relocation of the Atlanta Thrashers was announced on Tuesday.

Not only did True North Sports and Entertainment spend a significant amount of time detailing the price of tickets, but NHL commissioner Gary Bettman made it clear that every one of them better be sold next season.

“It isn’t going to work very well unless this building is sold out every night,” Bettman said.

The 15,015-seat MTS Centre will be the smallest arena in the NHL, and Winnipeg re-enters the league at a time when it has never been more expensive to do business.

The salary cap is expected to climb for a sixth straight season in 2011-12 and could reach more than $62 million. If that happens, every team would have to spend at least $46 million.

The Thrashers have $35.9 million tied up in 15 players for next season. There are seven pending restricted free agents, and all told the payroll could exceed $50 million.

True North is asking fans to open their wallets and show support for the new franchise. Tickets will range in price from $39 to $129.