OHL hockey rumours are flying

The Toronto Sun is reporting that North Bay could become a home to a re-located OHL franchise within the next two years.

“OHL commissioner David Branch told The Sun Thursday that "the league is in the midst of some serious discussions relating to the St. Michael's Majors," but he would not elaborate.

The rumour is that St. Michael’s Major’s and Ottawa Senators owner Eugene Melnyk would purchase the Mississauga Ice Dogs and move the Majors to Mississauga and in turn move the Ice Dogs franchise. Those rumoured destinations in the article included Buffalo, Syracuse and North Bay.

The “Major” question is would the OHL even allow one owner to own two separate teams in the same league?

The OHL rumour mill has been churning for the past couple of months since OHL commissioner David Branch mentioned on a Sudbury Wolves playoff broadcast that North Bay would be a viable destination for a relocated franchise.

Other cities that have been involved in the relocation rumour mill include the Belleville Bulls and the Brampton Battalion.

Skyhawks G.M. Guy Blanchard was surprised to hear about the rumour.

“I know nothing about the OHL wanting to come here,” he said.

“I’ve heard nothing from the city.”

Jerry Knox, the managing director of community services in North Bay says he’s heard the rumours but that’s about it.

“I don’t put credibility to rumours until someone’s knocking on the doors,” said Knox.

Knox just hopes North Bay isn’t being used as leverage during negotiations between a city and a franchise.

However, if an OHL team did come knocking on the cities door, there is no clause to stop the OHL or any other higher caliber league from coming to North Bay.