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Dolan Confirms He'll Keep Knicks & Rangers Despite MSG Sale

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  Published in Stocks and Investing on Sunday, February 1st 2026 at 19:07 GMT by NY Post
      Locales: UNITED STATES, IRELAND

New York, NY - February 2nd, 2026 - In a move that will likely quell anxieties amongst New York Knicks and New York Rangers fans, James Dolan, Executive Chairman and controlling owner of MSG Entertainment, has definitively stated his intention to retain ownership of both franchises even if the iconic Madison Square Garden is sold. The announcement, made during an appearance on The Michael Kay Show on ESPN 98.7 FM Friday, comes amidst escalating speculation surrounding the future of the world's most famous arena.

For months, rumors have swirled regarding a potential sale of Madison Square Garden, with analysts predicting a deal that could easily exceed several billion dollars. The current situation is complex, involving a web of negotiations with various interested parties, making the ultimate buyer and final price tag highly uncertain. However, despite the ongoing discussions about the arena's ownership, Dolan has been unequivocal about his plans for the teams that call it home.

"I'm not going to sell them," Dolan stated firmly. "I'm going to keep them. That's the plan."

The implications of this declaration are significant. For years, concerns have lingered that a sale of MSG could trigger the divestiture of the Knicks and Rangers, potentially fracturing a sporting legacy deeply woven into the fabric of New York City. Dolan's commitment provides a degree of stability and reassurance to fans who have witnessed periods of both glory and struggle for both teams.

This isn't the first time Dolan has addressed concerns about the separation of the teams and the arena. He's consistently maintained the desire to keep the franchises distinct from the real estate asset of Madison Square Garden, but Friday's comments were the most direct and reassuring yet. While the details of his "plans for the Garden" remain shrouded in mystery - Dolan playfully refusing to elaborate further - it's clear he envisions a future where the arena changes hands while the Knicks and Rangers remain under his control.

Following the broadcast, MSG Entertainment stock experienced a substantial jump of 7.4%, indicating investor confidence in the company's direction and potentially a positive outlook regarding the potential arena sale. The market appears to be interpreting Dolan's statements as a means of maximizing value; retaining the sports franchises, which are valuable assets in their own right, could attract a broader range of potential buyers for the Garden itself.

What's Next for MSG and the Teams?

The big question now is who will purchase Madison Square Garden. Potential bidders are speculated to include a range of entities - from real estate investment trusts (REITs) to entertainment conglomerates, and even perhaps a consortium led by another high-profile sports owner. The current lease arrangements for both the Knicks and Rangers are believed to be complex, with several years remaining on their respective contracts. These agreements will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the negotiations with any prospective buyer.

Experts predict that whoever acquires the Garden will need to consider these long-term leases carefully, understanding that Dolan is committed to maintaining control of the teams. This could mean a structured deal involving long-term operating agreements that allow the Knicks and Rangers to continue playing at MSG, even under new ownership. Alternatively, a buyer might seek to negotiate changes to the lease terms, potentially involving increased rental payments or concessions from Dolan.

Furthermore, the changing landscape of sports and entertainment will also influence the future of MSG. The rise of streaming services, evolving fan engagement strategies, and the demand for immersive experiences are all factors that will shape the arena's future programming and revenue streams. Dolan's "plans for the Garden," whatever they may be, are likely to address these trends and position MSG as a leading destination for live events for years to come.

Ultimately, while the ownership of Madison Square Garden may be in flux, one thing appears certain: the New York Knicks and New York Rangers will remain firmly under the stewardship of James Dolan, continuing a legacy that spans decades. The focus now shifts to the impending sale and how the new ownership will navigate the intricacies of operating one of the world's most iconic arenas alongside two of its most storied franchises.