The Tampa Bay Lightning hockey team is currently in the process of being sold for a staggering $2 billion, according to a report by Elliotte Friedman for Sportsnet. The potential buyer is Doug Ostrover, the CEO of Blue Owl Capital, an investment company based in New York City.
Although the deal has not been finalized yet, sources indicate that current owner Jeff Vinik will continue to oversee team operations for the next few years. Vinik is also expected to maintain a significant ownership stake in the team even after the sale is complete.
It is worth noting that Vinik originally purchased the Lightning back in 2010 for approximately $170 million. If the team does sell for $2 billion, it would set a new record for the most expensive team sale in NHL history, surpassing the $950 million sale of the Ottawa Senators last year.
The sale of the Lightning reflects the growing value of NHL teams in recent years, as interest in hockey continues to rise among fans and investors alike. This trend is not unique to the NHL, as sports franchises across various leagues have seen significant increases in their valuations.
As the details of the sale continue to unfold, it will be interesting to see how this transaction impacts the future of the Tampa Bay Lightning. With new ownership on the horizon, fans can expect changes in the management and direction of the team, potentially leading to new opportunities for success on and off the ice.
Stay tuned for more updates and analysis on this developing story as more information becomes available.