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Esports organization OverActive Media announced that the NHL’s Montreal Canadiens have joined its ownership group. OverActive Media is the organization behind teams such as the Toronto Ultra, Toronto Defiant and MAD Lions.

Alongside this announcement, OverActive Media reported the second closing on its private placement. The aggregate gross proceeds reached over $40 million.

The NHL, OverActive Media and esports

The Montreal Canadiens’ investment in OverActive Media signifies a move into the esports ecosystem. It is also an indication that the Montreal Canadiens wish to play a leadership role in the esports space, according to the press release.

Geoff Molson, the CEO, co-owner and president of the NHL team, said he is thrilled to join the partnership group. He added how he has followed the organization’s progress over the years.

“They are an impressive operation and clearly a leading organization in the global esports industry,” Molson said. “We could not be more excited for our future together.”

Chris Overholt, the president and CEO of OverActive Media, highlighted how partnering with the franchise would help inform the esport organization’s strategy.

“We are beginning to manifest our vision for building a world leading sports and entertainment organization for a new generation of fans,” Overholt said. “We have much to learn from Geoff Molson and his team, and we look forward to a long and successful partnership with the Canadiens and their leadership group.”

Arizona Coyotes, Washington Capitals and Toronto Maple Leafs

OverActive Media also announced that two professional hockey players have joined the organization as athlete owners.

The two players are Phil Kessel from the Arizona Coyotes and Carl Hagelin from the Washington Capitals.

Both Kessel and Hagelin joined alongside Mitch Marner, who plays for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Marner joined OverActive Media’s ownership team back in 2020. The Toronto Maple Leafs player said he livestreamed with Toronto Ultra players in the past as well.

“As a gamer, my investment is an opportunity to join one of the best global esports organizations and to help bridge the gap between hockey fans and esports,” Marner said in the announcement.

He added how he was eager to introduce the Toronto Ultra and Toronto Defiant to the younger generation of traditional sport fans.