Penguins in Las Vegas? NHL Hockey Team Meets With Mayor on Moving

Co-Owner Mario Lemieux may be moving rookie superstar Sid Crosby and the rest of the Penguins to Vegas. Today Penguins owner Ron Burkle paid Las Vegas a visit.

Las Vegas Mayor Oscar B. Goodman had hockey on his mind today as he engaged in what's being called a "very pleasant conversation" with Penguins owner Ron Burkle about moving the team there. Back home, Burkle and co-owner Mario Lemieux continue to sort out differences with government officials in Philadelphia about plans for a new arena in Pittsburgh. The team currently occupies Melon Arena in Pittsburgh, the leagues oldest arena at 46 years, and their lease is up at the end of June. The Penguins had originally planned to pay $120 million over 30 years to help pay for a $290 million arena, but stalls in discussions and an inability to reach a deal has led the team to actively pursue a new home. Las Vegas isn't the only option the Penguins have. Kansas City has also offered the team free rent pus half of all revenues if they decide to go there. Kansas City is a tempting choice, with their brand new $262 million Sprint Center almost complete. This won't be the first hockey the desert town of Vegas has seen. The city is home to an ECHL (East Coast Hockey League) club called the Las Vegas Wranglers, who currently hold the top spot in the Pacific Division. Vegas also hosts the Frozen Fury, a special series of games taking place between NHL rivals each year.