If the repairs to Elliot Lake’s Centennial Arena are not done by early September, the city could lose out on its pre-season NHL game.
The upcoming NHL preseason game between the Ottawa Senators and Pittsburgh Penguins tentatively set for September may be forced to relocate with Sault Ste. Marie and Sudbury being considered instead.
In March, Elliot Lake earned the opportunity to host an exhibition game when the city won the 2024 Kraft Hockeyville contest, which also included $250,000 to go towards repairing the facility.
With those winnings plus over $500,000 raised locally, repairs are well underway at the facility but, if it does not meet specs or is not ready, the game could be relocated. The city would still receive the $250,000 cash prize.
According to city hall, officials say they are working closely with Kraft Heinz, the NHL and NHLPA to finalize event details.
In line with their commitment to transparency and timely communication, they will share full details, including the venue as soon as they are finalized for the game tentatively set for September 29th.
