Mayor Oscar Goodman denied a report Thursday that he was ready to make a deal to relocate the Pittsburgh Penguins to Las Vegas.

A Pittsburgh television station reported on its Web site (wpxi.com) that Goodman was set to "seal a deal" to bring the NHL franchise to Las Vegas. When informed of the report, Goodman was not amused.

"It's a bunch of crap," he said. "They're trying to use us again as a pawn, and I'm not going to allow that to happen."

The Penguins are considering relocation as the franchise seeks a replacement for Mellon Arena. WPXI also reported that Allegheny County officials released a plan for a new $300 million arena late Thursday.

Goodman said he talked to Pittsburgh Mayor Bob O'Connor last month.

"I told him I hope the Penguins stay in Pittsburgh," Goodman said. "I have not had any discussions whatsoever that would even suggest the Penguins move here."

Goodman said he is continuing efforts to bring a major league franchise to the city, and rumors are swirling that the NBA's Sacramento Kings are interested if they cannot close a new arena deal.