Leiweke Says NHL to Return in the Fall

King President Tim Leiweke said Friday the NHL would return this fall, even though the labor dispute that canceled the season may not be settled.

He wouldn’t comment on the use of replacement players, but all signs indicated that would be the NHL’s strategy in the absence of a new collective bargaining agreement with the players’ association.

“We’re back playing hockey in September. We will have a King season,” Leiweke said. “And there’s an enormous amount of conviction and planning toward the fan. The fan has become a high priority for us and we can’t abuse that trust....

“Fans want to see guys who are hard-working and grounded and decent. Fans want to see a competitive team that works hard. We’ve got a moment in time here to maybe get sports back on track, and I’d certainly like to do that. I’m excited about it. It’s time to get on with it.”

Leiweke, speaking at a news conference in Carson announcing the inaugural Tour of California bicycle race next February, said NHL owners support Commissioner Gary Bettman in believing that another season without hockey would further damage an already damaged league.

“There may be those that fear the future. I’m not one of them,” he said. “We’re going to make good decisions economically and get a partnership with the fans.”

-- Helene Elliott