Ottawa Senators owner Michael Andlauer has just sold one of his OHL teams to an NHL player
The Brantford Bulldogs of the OHL, owned by Michael Andlauer, have been sold to Zach Hyman of the Edmonton Oilers in quite a surprising move.
The Brantford Bulldogs are about to enter a new era as Edmonton Oilers left-winger Zach Hyman and his family are getting ready to take over ownership of the Ontario Hockey League's Brantford Bulldogs.
This is the biggest move the franchise has seen since it came under the control of current Senators owner Michael Andlauer a decade ago.
Under his ownership, the Bulldogs saw great success when they won two OHL Championships in 2018 and 2022. In 2015, Andlauer bought the Belleville Bulls before moving it to Hamilton.
In 2023, the team shifted to Brantford because of some disputes between the management and the city officials, also due to the upcoming renovation of the FirstOntario Centre in Hamilton.
Brantford has welcomed the Bulldogs quite well, and the fans showed their interest and pride in the team during their second year in the city. It has been an exciting move to Brantford for this community to enjoy hosting an OHL team.
But the change in ownership brings into question the future of the $140-million plan for a new sports and entertainment center in Brantford.
That new venue, supposed to be a permanent home for the Bulldogs, is forecast to pump $4.8 million a year into the local economy. The city's website says construction could begin as early as this year. The opening was pegged for 2027.
The Bulldogs are expected to release a statement next week following an OHL meeting on Monday with a news conference likely on Wednesday to discuss the transition and what it will mean to the club and the city of Brantford.
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