Based on what I can tell, it happens in three steps.
The current owner would need to do something deemed detrimental to the league (Pete Rose esque).
It would then be brought to the board of governors for them to vote on a relocation (need a majority vote).
Relocation is approved.
Looks like it only happened once in 1925.
Based on what I can tell, it happens in three steps.
The current owner would need to do something deemed detrimental to the league (Pete Rose esque).
It would then be brought to the board of governors for them to vote on a relocation (need a majority vote).
Relocation is approved.
Looks like it only happened once in 1925.
There is only one scenario in which the Sabres move or their owner is replaced. They are never removing Terry.
But Buffalo/Erie County would have to refuse to put one cent into the arena and convince the league it will never happen in the next decade. Who knows? Even then, Bettman will work with New York State and the city to get a deal. He hates teams moving because of the loss of control. Bettman knows how to work things.
The only scenario where Pegula might be out is if the rink became suddenly unusable for hockey and another city was ready and waiting for a team. This is the way Atlanta and Arizona moved, both just last minute where Gary had zero choice.
That said, when the Key Bank lease runs out, Hamilton will have a refurbished arena of 18,000+ with luxury boxes ready and waiting for tenants. They are 100% focused on AHL, but as an emergency measure, it is something that could happen in a very far-fetched scenario.
I think Terry gets his refurbished rink, and he stays on until he gets too ill. The kids inherit stuff but the stake in the Bills being sold will cover his tax liabilities.
The Pegulas are not going anywhere. Learn to live with them or get a new team. It's reality.
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For starters, a retired Bettman probably makes any moves easier.