HAVING THE CAPITAL TIED UP ON OUR BALANCE SHEET.

subscriptions instead of cutting the cord to stream content online — he noted that Rogers’ 12-year, $5.2-billion deal with the NHL for exclusive broadcast rights shows it’s possible to “rent” content instead of owning it.

“To be clear, there isn’t anything imminent that we’re about to announce, but we’re certainly looking at the alternatives,” Staffieri said.

“Again, I would like to get the content without necessarily having the capital tied up on our balance sheet.”

Analysts had renewed questions about Rogers’ plans for the sports team when CEO Joe Natale started his tenure this spring. Natale, who previously ran Telus, is known for his focus on core networks over content.

Given low interest rates, it could be a good move to sell the team and use the cash for share buybacks, reducing Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Marco Estrada. Rogers has hinted again it may be willing to sell the Jays.