The New Jersey Devils is under new ownership after being sold yesterday.  Philadelphia 76ers owner Josh Harris and his business partner David Blitzer purchased the rights to the Devils, and the lease to the Prudential Center for $320 million.

New Jersey Devils Announce New Ownership
New Jersey Devils owners Joshua Harris (L) and David Blitzer (Andy Marlin, Getty Images)
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Blitzer has close ties to New Jersey.

"I was born and raised in New Jersey, my parents were born and raised in New Jersey, my grandparents were raised in New Jersey and my parents still live in the home I grew up in my entire life," said Blitzer.

What makes buying the Devils extra-special for Blitzer?  "I know what it means to be from New Jersey. I know that sense of pride that comes from being from New Jersey and supporting your team. The passion and support of the Devils fans is what makes this even more exciting.  This is a phenomenal franchise."

Both owners agree that having the team based in Newark is a plus because the city has shown several signs of growth, a lot of which is driven by the Prudential Center.  Blitzer said housing and commercial developments are also on the rise.

Harris and Blitzer both look forward to working with the community.

"We do think sports is a platform to leave the world a better place," said Harris. " That means more than selling tickets and winning on the ice."

"This team has stood for excellence and we want that to continue.  I think the New Jersey Devils are the envy of 99 percent of the NHL from the standpoint of their performance on the ice.  New Jersey Devil fans are fantastic, however we absolutely want to increase that fan experience," said Blitzer.

 

 

 

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