Devils deny community center commitment

The New Jersey Devils are challenging Newark Mayor Cory Booker's recent criticism of the team.

Booker ripped team owner Jeff Vanderbeek on Wednesday for what the mayor said was reneging on promises, including a promise to build a community center on the Prudential Arena site.

But the Devils produced a letter signed by the Newark Housing Authority chief in 2007 that says the team wouldn't be required to build the center. The site is now occupied by a Marriott Hotel.

Booker's comments came a day after arbitrators ruled in favor of the Devils in a long-running dispute with the city over arena parking revenue.

Community activists were planning a protest in front of the arena before Friday night's Nets game.

Booker couldn't immediately be reached for comment.