The Washington Capitals and Washington Wizards could still be on their way out of DC per a report from the Baltimore Banner.
The news website is reporting that Ted Leonsis discussed the idea of bringing the two franchises to Maryland with Governor Wes Moore after Virginia lawmakers nixed a proposed $2 billion sports and entertainment district in Arlington’s Potomac Yard, choosing to not include the project in its latest budget (in rather defiant fashion).
Who DID THIS?! 😂 pic.twitter.com/q0IvchIoge
— L. Louise Lucas (@SenLouiseLucas) March 7, 2024
The two franchises previously played in Landover, Maryland from the early ’70s through 1997 at the Capital Centre.
It’s not likely. But a source with direct knowledge of the situation told The Baltimore Banner that Maryland Gov. Wes Moore and Leonsis discussed the idea of bringing the NBA and NHL teams to Maryland after Virginia lawmakers left out plans for a new Wizards and Capitals arena from the state budget this month.
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[E]xploration of a Maryland arena could offer some leverage for Leonsis in negotiations with Virginia and D.C., if nothing else.
Where a possible arena site would be in Maryland is unknown. No deal has been put on the table for discussion. The current Maryland legislative session adjourns on April 8, giving lawmakers only 19 days to possibly cobble a deal together if it so chooses.
Going to Moore for discussions makes sense as the Maryland governor recently came to an agreement with then-managing owner John Angelos to keep the Baltimore Orioles at Camden Yards for the next 30 years (though the O’s can opt out after 15 years if they do not receive approval from state officials to develop the land surrounding Camden Yards by December 31, 2027).
The finalization of the new lease deal unlocks $600 million to fund upgrades to the ballpark, because of legislation passed by the General Assembly in 2022. The Ravens — who play at M&T Bank Stadium next door on Russell Street — recently announced plans to use a projected $430 million of the $600 million they received to fund stadium improvements.
The NFL’s Washington Commanders also currently play in Maryland at Commanders Field in Prince George’s County.
A possible Maryland arena plan for MSE comes fourteen days after the Potomac Yard project stalled out. Ted Leonsis is reportedly still focused on trying to make the deal with Virginia happen and met with state senator Louise Lucas earlier in the month.
“I read a lot of articles that say this deal is dead, and it’s not dead,” Zach Leonsis said in a recent story by Washington Business Journal. “We think if people take the time to sit down and think critically and evaluate the proposal on its merit that they’ll see this is a really amazing opportunity for the commonwealth, the city of Alexandria and obviously a great opportunity for our organization, too.”
Monumental Sports & Entertainment can also go back to the negotiating table with DC, who put together a $500 million package on December 10 for renovations at Capital One Arena. MSE originally asked for $600 million. Mayor Muriel Bowser called the half-billion the city’s best and final offer.
