Could Queens become the next professional hockey destination? Newsday spoke with Mets COO Jeff Wilpon, who confirmed that he has spoken to Islanders owner Charles Wang about moving the franchise to Queens: "I've had conversations with Charles and we've talked about Queens. We'd like to be helpful and I think Queens is an option. We built Citi Field well under budget and on time. I have all my guys ready."
Wang has been frustrated by attempts to "downsize" his Lighthouse arena project in Hempstead and unhappy with Nassau County officials, raising questions about whether he'll sell the franchise (Kansas City, anyone?). Also, the Mets could be interested in eventually buying the franchise, though Wilpon added, "We haven't really discussed ownership. It has been more of, 'Can we get something synergistic with Citi Field and a hockey arena, what can happen here?'" Wilpon also revealed he had been talking to MLS commissioner Don Garber about a soccer venue, though "We probably can't do both."
Queens Borough President Helen Marshall said of a potential hockey arena, "We are certainly willing and able and happy to work with Mr. Wilpon, but we have not heard any concrete plan as of today of bringing the Islanders into Queens. It has to be real." Well, Brooklyn Beep Marty Markowitz has said the team would be welcome in Brooklyn.
