SEATTLE (AP) — The arena for Seattle’s new NHL franchise won’t be completed until late spring or summer of 2021, but that shouldn’t have any impact on the expansion team’s first season.
Team President Tod Leiweke said Thursday the delay could end up affecting some other plans for the franchise, including the hopes of hosting the 2021 NHL draft. After being awarded the league’s 32nd team last December, Seattle officials were hoping to have the building open by early spring 2021, but design delays and a change in general contractors has delayed the project.
Leiweke said Mortenson, the new contractor, has been provided with incentives to try to have the arena ready by June 1, 2021, in the hope of having the NHL draft and a full home slate for the WNBA’s Seattle Storm.
Getting the Storm back into the building is a major priority. Coming off winning the WNBA title last season, the Storm will play this season and the next in temporary homes around the Seattle area.