Alex Schnaider: Can a Russian-Canadian Billionaire Save the Leafs?

Okay, so as most people in the Leaf nation have heard, Alex Schnaider has inquired about buying the historic Toronto Maple Leafs. 

But his interest raises more questions.

First off, who is this guy? And what right does he have to come in and snap up the Leafs (and Raptors, Toronto F.C., condos, etc.)?

Is he even a Leaf fan?

To the first question: Alex Schnaider is a Russian-Canadian billionaire who has made his money in his dealings in the former states of the Soviet Union. He is also bankrolling the new Trump Towers in Toronto; if he keeps the top floor, he could someday overlook the Air Canada Centre and check on his holdings.

He recently invested in Israel's top soccer team, and is clearly looking to expand.

But what Russian billionaire these days doesn't own a soccer team or sports team?

Schnaider most likely wants to buy the team because it makes money; but secondly, he is probably more a fan of the game than Maple Leaf Sports Entertainment (MLSE).

Look at what MLSE are doing with the Leafs. For some reason, they got it right with who they brought in with the Raptors, but it's basketball—who cares? (Don't shoot me for that comment!)

The starved-for-success Leaf nation can only hope Schnaider gets a hold of MLSE. But don't hold your breath.

The structure of MLSE is such that Larry Tannenbaum has first rights to any shares up for sale. That means even though he owns less then 20 percent, he in essence is the only man you need to deal with. 

And while the Ontario Teachers have said that even though MSLE's potential might be closed to being maxed out and they thus might be interested in cashing in, they would then have to reinvest that amount. And the Teachers don't like risk. 

In the end, though, money talks, and a big offer might pry the historic Leaf franchise to someone who just might install hockey people in the organization.

Could it happen? I doubt it. Too many ifs and buts are in play.

But if you are a Leaf fan, hope that ANYONE buys the Leafs, because that appears to be the only chance you will see your team make a run for Lord Stanley that doesn't include just stopping by the Hall of Fame down the street!

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