Mario Lemieux Group Reported Very Interested in Buying Back Penguins

Mario Lemieux, alongside former co-owner Ron Burkle and ex-CEO David Morehouse, is reportedly very interested in reacquiring the Pittsburgh Penguins, nearly four years after selling the team to Fenway Sports Group (FSG) in a $900 million deal. Although FSG has expressed no current interest in selling the franchise outright and is only exploring the addition of a minority investor, Lemieux's group is actively considering financial options to regain control. The potential buyback comes amid declining team performance, with the Penguins missing the playoffs for two consecutive seasons and experiencing reduced ticket sales. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman has been informed about Lemieux's group's intentions. With franchise valuations now significantly higher, Forbes estimates the Penguins at $1.75 billion, making a full purchase costly, but Lemieux's legacy as a player and savior of the team fuels hopes that a return to his ownership could rejuvenate the franchise. The situation remains fluid, with FSG maintaining its stance on seeking only a small, passive partner while Lemieux’s group explores various avenues for a possible acquisition.