Joint Venue For Detroit Teams

It’s unclear whether the NHL’s Detroit Red Wings will call the Joe Louis Arena home next season, though it appears the doors may still be open for a move to the Palace of Auburn Hills.

The Wings’ lease at the aging Joe expires in June. While the Ilitch family that owns the team has wavered over whether to stay or go, Palace Sports & Entertainment CEO Alan Ostfield has said the company would still be willing to discuss moving the Wings to the Palace.

The venue already houses the NBA’s Detroit Pistons, but Ostfield told Crain’s Detroit Business that PS&E is willing to do whatever makes the most sense for the region.

“If that means another team playing here, we’re always happy to talk about that,” he said.

Pistons owner Karen Davidson has made it clear that she’d like to sell the team. But Ostfield said a possible sale of the Pistons shouldn’t affect whether the Wings come to the Palace.

“We really haven’t put any business issues aside because of the potential future sale,” he said. “It doesn’t necessarily have to wait. They may not sell. Or they may sell two years from now.”

Ilitch spokesman Tom Pyden told the paper that the Red Wings’ discussions with the city regarding a new lease at the Joe are ongoing.

“That is what we’re focused on,” he said. “The talks are progressing by no final agreement has been reached.”