Ottawa Senators owner Eugene Melnyk's RendezVous LeBreton was granted preferred status on Thursday, winning the bid to redevelop LeBreton Flats - the coveted slice of real estate close to the downtown core.
It's now up to him and his team to negotiate with the National Capital Commission, which recommended his bid over another submission, to broker a deal that will bring the Senators a new arena.
Melnyk said this moves "solidifies" the franchise, and hopes it's a step in bringing in the franchises first Stanley Cup.
Melnyk telling @EvanLSolomon "This is the biggest day in franchise history". "Will lead to a Stanley Cup coming to Ottawa".
— Shawn Simpson (@TSNSimmer) April 28, 2016
Immediately looking ahead, Melnyk announced shortly after the decision that the plan is to have the Senators begin their 2021-22 season in an arena built downtown.
Plans for Kanata's Canadian Tire Center will be unveiled when the process is completed, according to the Senators owner.
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