So a good commissioner works with the team, ownership group & finds other prospective owners. You don't let a franchise get relocated from the biggest market in the Southeast on some "oh well shyt", but then go hard to preserve hockey in Phoenix & South Fla
That wasn't going to happen unless Atlanta Spirit wants willing to sell The Thrashers, Hawks, and Philips Arena in a package deal. AS wanted to retain Hawks & Philips Arena until they sold both properties later. Apparently a ownership group that made a package deal offer for $500 Million before the Thrashers were sold To True North Sports & Entertainment in Winnipeg that was ignored. There is a reason Atlanta Spirit is hated and known one of the worst owners in North American Sports, unfortunately as long as they run Philips Arena hockey will never return to Atlanta. Bettman's hands were tied on this one, he couldn't force them to sell locally if they weren't willing to.