Michael Andlauer's first year as Ottawa Senators owner has been full of challenges. But a step forward in the plans for a downtown arena is a long-awaited positive sign.

OTTAWA, Ontario — It went down to the deadline, but the NHL's Ottawa Senators have an agreement to build a new arena downtown in Canada's capital.

The Senators and the NCC had until Friday's deadline to reach a deal before their memorandum of understanding expired.