By Mark Scott
Buffalo, NY – The Associated Press says that Buffalo businessman Mark Hamister met Wednesday with state officials and potential investors about making a bid for the Buffalo Sabres. A spokesman for Governor Pataki says the governor wants to make sure the Sabres "have a long and prosperous future in Buffalo."
The NHL will discuss the Sabres' situation Thursday. Under one senario, according to the Buffalo News, owner John Rigas could surrender the franchise voluntarily to the league at any time, perhaps before the league meeting. That would remove the Sabres from leins by creditors should Adelphia Communications declare bankruptcy.
The Sabres owe some $150 million to Adelphia in outstanding loans.
In related news, Adelphia has announced it is discontinuing its popular awards program. The financially-strapped company has been offering cable subscribers and Buffalo Sabres season ticket holders special discounts, offers and trips.
Subscribers still holding points in the program will be told in the next two to three months if they'll be able to redeem them.