Welcome Back Winnipeg

It's official: Winnipeg will be joining the NHL. Again. Press releases were issued on both sides today, True North Sports & Entertainment Limited has entered into an agreement with Atlanta Spirit, LLC, putting an end to the Atlanta Thrashers as we've known them since the 1999-2000 season.

The original Winnipeg Jets became the Phoenix Coyotes after the 1995-96 season.

The name game has been popular one to play in the media and between fans. It's believed the team will be named after Manitoba, not Winnipeg, to create broader corporate sponsorship interest. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman has stated the name Jets will be available, but there's been no indication which name the new owners are leaning towards. Jamie, who helps with everything news-related around here, is hoping they're called the Rebels (Wikipedia what?).