Ryan Reynolds Decides on His Ottawa Senator “Sugar Daddy”

Back in November, when actor Ryan Reynolds confirmed his interest in becoming part owner of the Ottawa Senators, he made it crystal clear he wasn’t looking to go it alone.

According to a report in the Ottawa Sun, Reynolds has found his “Sugar Mommy or Daddy” in the form of The Remington Group – a Toronto real estate developer that’s keen on becoming the next owner of the Ottawa Senators. Remington has been in operation for over 65 years and certainly building a new arena and developing LeBreton Flats is right in their wheelhouse.

It’s widely believed Reynolds wants to replicate the TV template of Welcome to Wrexham, a show about the underdog Welsh pro soccer team he purchased, along with fellow actor Rob McElhenney. Reynolds is also a hockey fan who spent a good chunk of his childhood growing up in Vanier. A TV show about Reynolds and his down-and-out hometown hockey team would write itself, especiallly with Hollywood-level production and treatment. After missing the playoffs the last five years (and probably counting), everyone loves a rags-to-riches story. The ups and downs of Reynolds and his pals trying to build an arena – not to mention a entirely new business and entertainment district – could be compelling.

While you think the Commissioner of the NHL would have a more exact number, Gary Bettman said at the All-Star game there were “more than 15” groups interested in buying the Senators. All groups have had a look at the Sens’ books, and with that part of the process now complete, a short list of bidders could be announced any day now.

If you’re an oddsmaker, you’d probably make Remington-Reynolds your new front runner to buy the Sens, since it’s unlikely Reynolds would hitch his wagon to an underdog bidder at this stage. Additionally, the NHL has already said they want to see Reynolds involved. And why not? What league wouldn’t want a well-liked, charismatic owner who could push their product in front of 100 million social media followers?

While the Melnyk family will make their own decision, of course, the NHL is always going to have a major say on who gets a seat at their table.

By Steve Warne