Senators owner Eugene Melnyk: Team is not for sale By BRUCE GARRIOCH, QMI Agency

Senators owner Eugene Melnyk is denying speculation that he would sell the club. (Errol McGihon/QMI Agency)

OTTAWA - Eugene Melnyk won't be selling the Senators.

While rumours surfaced again this week that the club was up for sale, the Senators owner Thursday quashed any idea he'll be handing over the reins of the franchise to anyone any time soon.

Former Columbus Blue Jackets president and GM Doug MacLean didn't mention the Senators by name Tuesday when he told listeners on Hockey Central at Noon on Sportsnet that people were looking at the books of an "Ontario" team.

Since the Toronto Maple Leafs were just sold to a consortium from Bell Media and Rogers, it's pretty clear MacLean was speaking about the prospects of the Senators' ownership.

Melnyk, who bought the team and Scotiabank Place out of bankruptcy in August 2003, told the Sun he's not going anywhere.

"Quite simply: Not for sale. Not a chance," said Melnyk in an e-mail. "If you find an owner more committed than me, please let me know as I would love to meet them."

Last year, MacLean and former NHLer Nick Kypreos speculated on Hockey Central that Melnyk might be looking for a buyer, but he gave the same answer at that juncture.

There is speculation in some circles that Melnyk might be willing to take on a minority partner. Asked about that possibility last year, Melnyk dismissed the idea.

bruce.garrioch@sunmedia.ca

Twitter: @sungarrioch