Legal Battle Over Franchise Transfers
A lawsuit filed by the United States Premier Hockey League seeks to prevent the Billings Cattle Punchers and three other clubs from entering the North American Hockey League before their first season. The complaint alleges that the teams breached their membership agreements by exiting the USPHL, a move that allowed the league to waive a $250,000 franchise fee for the Billings franchise.
The league says the breach has caused more than $1 million in damages and is demanding $75,000 from each team's majority owner and president, Kevin Greene, and former Idaho Falls Spud Kings general manager Erik Hudson. The USPHL estimates its total losses at over a million dollars and hints that the NAHL could face legal action for interfering with contracts.
Court Decision Pending
A hearing before the Delaware Court of Chancery will determine whether the four franchises, including Billings, are allowed to play in the NAHL. The outcome could set a precedent for future league migrations and influence how contractual obligations are handled across professional hockey circuits.
Meanwhile, the Cattle Punchers continue recruiting players and are showcasing a camp scheduled for August 6‑8, using the event to highlight new talent and build momentum for the upcoming season.