David Blitzer and Joshua Harris Acquire Devils
August 15, 2013 - American Hockey League (AHL)
Albany Devils News Release
NEWARK, NJ "" David Blitzer and Joshua Harris have completed the purchase of the New Jersey Devils hockey team from the current ownership group controlled by Jeffrey Vanderbeek. The transaction includes the team's long-term operating interest in Prudential Center and related assets, which include the Albany Devils.
"Josh Harris and I are thrilled to own the Devils and, as someone who was born and raised in New Jersey, I am especially excited by this unique opportunity," said Mr. Blitzer in a release. "Both of us have long admired the team for its passionate fans who reflect the character and commitment to winning that are trademarks of this organization. We want to thank Jeff Vanderbeek for his leadership of the Devils organization and his great work in bringing the Prudential Center to Newark. The Rock is a first-class entertainment venue, which will continue to grow and bring amazing talent to the city. Newark is showing positive signs of growth, and the Devils and the Prudential Center look forward to supporting this progress. We will be committed stewards of this great franchise and arena as we work closely with city and state leadership to ensure the Devils, their fans and the Newark and greater New Jersey community all share in the future success of their favorite team."
The ownership change was officially announced Thursday during a press conference at Prudential Center. Blitzer and Harris were joined on the dais by NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, Devils' President/General Manager Lou Lamoriello and the new CEO of the Devils and Prudential Center Scott O'Neil.
"I've had the opportunity over the past week to spend a considerable amount of time with David Blitzer and Joshua Harris," said Mr. Lamoriello. "There is no question in my mind about their commitment to the fans in creating the best possible in-game experience, their commitment to winning, and their ultimate goal of bringing the Stanley Cup back to the fans of New Jersey. Additionally, I have known Scott O'Neil for more than 10 years and have a tremendous amount of respect for the competency, work ethic and loyalty that he will bring to the New Jersey Devils and Prudential Center. I look forward to working with David, Josh, and Scott."
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