http://sports.excite.com/news/01142005/v4014.htmlThe World Hockey Association is planning a comeback, aiming to start a new pro league in the fall with at least six teams.
The WHA, which operated from 1972-79, is being revived by businessman Ricky Smith. The organization said in a statement Friday that Smith and unidentified partners are "in discussions with potential franchise owners."
Smith said he has been contacted by players during the NHL lockout, which began four months ago with no resolution in sight.
"But we have to remember that this is a long-term proposition for all of us and the product needs to stand on its own two feet regardless of what happens with the NHL labor dispute," Smith said in the statement.
Smith, who acquired rights to the league's name in October, said NHL great Bobby Hull is an adviser. Hull's jump from the NHL in the 1970s gave the original WHA credibility.
"The first thing I did when I purchased the league was to sign Bobby to a contract," Smith said by telephone.
Smith added that his group has scouts working in Europe and North America.
what-evah!!!
