Deadpool star Ryan Reynolds is reportedly interested in purchasing the NHL’s Ottawa Senators, who will soon be put up for sale.
Eugene Melnyk, who bought the Senators in 2003, passed away at the age of 62 on Mar. 28 of this year. The franchise was handed down to his two daughters, Anna and Olivia.
Citing a source, People Magazine reports that Reynolds “is very interested in” purchasing the Senators. The outlet heard from the source that “it is important to Reynolds” for the team to stay in Canada’s capital city.
The report from People comes a day after Sportico reported that the team has “retained a bank to explore a sale.” Sportico reported that the team hired Galatioti Sports Partners, a financial advisory giant based in New York.
In Dec. 2021, Forbes valued the Senators at $525 million. Of course, professional sports franchises often sell well above market value. For what it’s worth, Forbes lists Reynolds’ value at $71.5 million.
There is one notable roadblock which could delay a potential sale of the Atlantic Division squad. The Senators have long pushed for a new downtown arena in LeBreton Flats, and any interested buyers may want confirmation on the new venue before purchasing.
After a surprising run to the Eastern Conference Final in 2017, the Senators fell to the bottom of the league standings, and their attendance dropped drastically. GM Pierre Dorion traded away big-named players such as Erik Karlsson, Mark Stone, J.G. Pageau, Matt Duchene and Ryan Dzingel to commence a rebuild.
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But the Senators appear to be on the up again, thanks to some excellent trades and drrafting by Dorion. led by a dynamic young core of Brady Tkachuk, Tim Stützle, Josh Norris, Alex DeBrincat, Thomas Chabot, Drake Batherson and Jake Sanderson. The team made a giant splash in free agency by signing longtime Philadelphia Flyers captain Claude Giroux to a three-year, $19.5 million pact.
Ottawa has struggled with consistency in the early stages of the 2021-22 season. After dropping their first two games, the Sens rallied for four consecutive W’s before losing their next three games.
The Senators, who are looking to an a six-year playoff drought, open up a three-game homestand on Thursday against the powerhouse Vegas Golden Knights.
