Balsillie might still get an NHL franchise

Jim Balsillie’s dreams of acquiring an NHL team might still be a possibility.

The Research In Motion co-founder has long tried to buy up an American team and move them to Southern Ontario, but he’s been repeatedly thwarted by the NHL.

However, according to Forbes magazine, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has told Balsillie that he will eventually get a team.

The proviso is that Balsillie cannot “create any more spectacles or bad publicity for the league.”

Commercials for Research In Motion have been airing during the Stanley Cup Finals and RIM is reportedly paying more than seven figures for its sponsorship.

Next summer might provide an opportunity for Balsillie if the Phoenix Coyotes go up for sale again when their deal with the city of Glendale expires.

Balsillie had previously tried to move the Coyotes to Hamilton.