As reported by: The Advocate
Penguins owner Mario Lemieux called a deal to sell the team to a Canadian billionaire "unequivocally" dead and said Monday he is trying to reach a deal with a casino that promises to build an arena for the financially struggling club.

Isle of Capri has said it will build a $290 million facility for the Penguins to replace 45-year-old Mellon Arena -- at no cost to taxpayers or the team -- if it obtains a slot-machine license from the state.

But if Isle of Capri doesn't get a slot-machine license from state gambling regulators Wednesday, Lemieux said the Penguins would have to "consider all of our options."

"I've never heard of a government turning down $290 million in private money to build a public facility," Lemieux said. "It's unheard-of."

Jim Balsillie last week withdrew his offer to buy the Penguins for $175 million, but has said he might still try to purchase the team. Lemieux said that won't happen and the club will try to make Balsillie forfeit his deposit.

Article By: The Advocate