See, you're thinking from the fans' perspective. That's just about the last thing anyone at the NHL is thinking about. If they let in a Hamilton team, the NHL

See, you're thinking from the fans' perspective. That's just about the last thing anyone at the NHL is thinking about. If they let in a Hamilton team, the NHL would be sued so fast by both the Maple Leafs and Sabres. (Yes, franchisees can sue their franchisor.) Territory rights are golden to sports franchises - it's their one sustainable asset, even more valuable than their logo/brand. Again, the $750 million payment to Glendale, the KC arena, and the desire to be on ESPN are all issues that would have to be resolved before we even get to a territorial rights fight. Balsillie is hoping that bankruptcy court solves these issues - and court certainly does help him overcome these actors - but they're huge, huge issues.