Report: Investment firm, city submit plan to build NHL-ready arena near Seattle

Commissioner Gary Bettman's lofty estimation for an NHL expansion fee hasn't scared off the deep pockets toiling in Seattle. 

RLB Holdings Sports and Entertainment and the city of Tukwila, Wash., has reportedly filed a joint request with intention of building a multi-purpose arena, according to ESPN.com.

The movement has been filed with the expectation that an NHL-ready building will be erected in the Seattle suburb by the fall of 2017. 

RLB Holdings owner and billionaire Ray Bartoszek tried to purchase the Arizona Coyotes last year with the intention of relocating them to Seattle. 

Bettman has flirted with the idea of the NHL breaking into the Seattle sports market, hinting that the absence of an arena is the only real obstacle preventing a move.