Senators owner Melynk gets mixed reviews from fans
OTTAWA — Eugene Melnyk’s first attempt at clearing the air with Ottawa Senators fans had some rocky moments on Tuesday night.
Melnyk and Ottawa general manager Pierre Dorion met with fans in the first of three town hall meetings, an unprecedented move by the longtime Senators owner. It was the first time Melnyk has done such events since taking ownership of the National Hockey League team in 2003.
Melnyk’s relationship with fans has been tumultuous over the years, but things took a dramatic turn for the worse this season. He raised the ire of Sens supporters in December when he said he would consider relocating the team if the financial picture didn’t improve. “If it becomes a disaster? Yes. If you start not seeing crowds showing up, yes. For now, we are on the cusp of doing OK,” said Melnyk in December.
Melnyk was asked about his comments Tuesday night and admitted he made an “ill-fated response” and blamed the media for how things turned out.
“What was reflected in the press wasn’t what I said . ... If it makes everybody feel better, I do apologize for the mischaracterization,” he said.
Fans were pleased with some of what Melnyk had to say on Tuesday night, such as lowering parking rates and concession incentives, but many weren’t impressed with the apology.
“I’ve been a season-ticket holder since Day 1, but I was on the fence for the first time this year,” said Mike Milobar.
“The breaking point was the comments he made in December. That wasn’t an apology tonight.”
Milobar, who was in attendance with his son, Curtis, also took exception when both Melnyk and Dorion insinuated that longtime Senators captain Daniel Alfredsson wanted to leave the team and go to Detroit in 2013 when he was an unrestricted free agent. Those comments earned the duo a round of boos from many of the 300 on hand at Canadian Tire Centre.
The Senators owner was asked point blank under what circumstance he would sell the team and once again Melnyk was adamant in his response.
“I don’t even consider it, there’s no price,” said Melnyk. “If something’s not for sale, it’s not for sale.”