Rogers acquires Bell"s stake in MLSE, becomes majority owner

Rogers has acquired Bell's 37.5 percent stake in Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE) for $4.7 billion CAD, becoming the majority owner of the organization that oversees the Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Raptors. This acquisition allows Rogers to expand its influence in the sports entertainment sector, with Sportsnet continuing to broadcast a significant portion of the games for both teams. The deal is subject to league approval and enables Bell to maintain its broadcast and sponsorship rights for the teams. The acquisition comes at a pivotal time for both franchises. The Raptors are under the leadership of team president Masai Ujiri, whose contract runs through the 2025-26 season. Ujiri's future may be influenced by the new ownership dynamics, especially considering Rogers' previous scrutiny of his contract negotiations. Meanwhile, the Maple Leafs have faced challenges in the playoffs despite consistent qualifications, with CEO Keith Pelley emphasizing a commitment to winning rather than merely selling merchandise. Brendan Shanahan, the Leafs' president, is believed to be in the final year of his contract, adding uncertainty to the team's leadership. General manager Brad Treliving is entering his second season, and the team has made coaching changes to improve performance. The media landscape is also shifting, as BCE has secured a 20-year extension for broadcasting rights, ensuring TSN will air a significant number of Leafs games in the upcoming seasons. Overall, this ownership change could reshape the future of both teams, impacting management decisions and strategies as they aim for success in their respective leagues.