Don Waddell, president and general manager of the Carolina Hurricanes, announced that the organization finalized the purchase of restaurant Backyard Bistro with plans for a sportsbook in its future.

“Backyard Bistro has been serving Hurricanes fans and NC State fans for almost 15 years,” said Waddell in a statement. “While we have been partners for a while, it felt like the right time to officially bring Backyard Bistro into the Canes family.”

The acquisition of this neighborhood sports bar, located an earshot from PNC Arena and Carter-Finley Stadium, makes for the perfect storm surge ahead of the arena's tentatively allocated $300 million in renovations.

Not only will the restaurant still operate with award-winning Executive Chef Joe Lumbrazo overseeing food services, but the big picture calls for plans to host the team's sportsbooks, according to WRALSportsFan.

This purchase follows the recent deal between the Carolina Hurricanes and Centennial Authority, agreeing on a 20-year lease extension and $800 million in additional funds for developments to reshape PNC Arena and the vacant land around it. The new lease ties the Canes to the arena until 2044.

Backyard Bistro will act as a temporary sportsbook location for the organization until major arena renovations are complete — construction on the project could begin this year, with completion set forthe 2027-28 NHL season.

The NC Lottery Commission has not yet released a date for when mobile sports betting will launch, but the bill’s regulations and licensing structures must be approved by the commission by Jan. 8. The commission also has until June 14 to allow sportsbook operators to begin business.

We look forward to continuing cheering on the Canes at this local spot — our bet is always on the home team.