TORONTO - The following statement was issued by Jim Balsillie:

"This case offers many competing claims and testimony for the court to consider. I appreciate the court's careful consideration of the facts at hand and I respect Judge Baum's decision to recommend mediation for the Coyotes and NHL on the issue of current ownership. I also respect his decision to hold a June 22 hearing on the relocation issue."

"But let's be clear, I am moving forward. I have tabled a comprehensive and attractive offer. I will also be filing formal applications to the NHL both for transfer of ownership and for relocation to Southern Ontario to my chosen Hamilton Copps Coliseum venue. I am being open and transparent about this as I've been from the beginning. My Hamilton proposal, drawing on the world's best hockey fans located in the fourth largest urban region in North America, meets all the conditions for a successful NHL franchise."

"Nothing has changed in terms of my bid to bring a seventh NHL team to Canada, to the best un-served hockey market in the world. Momentum continues to build through our website, www.makeitseven.ca. I ask all hockey fans to continue to let their voices be heard."