The Arizona Coyotes have been informed that the NHL club is expected to relocate to Salt Lake City. General manager Bill Armstrong flew to Edmonton to inform the players of this potential move before their game against the Oilers. NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly stated that the players were given an update on the current situation, although nothing regarding the franchise’s relocation has been finalized. Players and officials may visit Salt Lake City soon, possibly after the season finale, which could be the final game at Mullett Arena in Tempe. Coyotes players were unavailable for comment after their game against Edmonton, and coach Andre Tourigny only addressed questions about the game.
The news of the potential relocation comes amidst rumors that Ryan Smith, owner of the NBA’s Utah Jazz, has been working to acquire an NHL team. This move could involve the league buying the Coyotes from current owner Alex Meruelo and relocating them to Salt Lake City. Smith had previously expressed interest in bringing a hockey team to Salt Lake City, with plans to have them play at the Delta Center until a new arena could be built. Last year, the Coyotes faced challenges in securing a long-term home in Arizona, with an arena referendum in Tempe failing. Despite efforts to win a land auction for a potential arena site in Phoenix, the team seems to be on the verge of relocating to Utah.
The Coyotes’ impending move to Salt Lake City would mark their third relocation since joining the NHL in 1979. Originally known as the Winnipeg Jets, the team moved to Arizona in 1996 and was rebranded as the Coyotes. Over the years, the team has faced financial difficulties, changes in ownership, and struggles to secure a permanent home arena. The current situation, playing in a small arena on Arizona State’s campus, has raised concerns for NHLPA executive director Marty Walsh. Salt Lake City appears to be a promising destination for the team, with strong support from the city and potential for success in the market.
Officials from Salt Lake City, including those involved with the city’s 2034 Olympic bid, have shown support for bringing the Coyotes to Utah. Governor Spencer Cox cited the state’s strong economy, passionate sports fan base, and active population as key factors that make Utah a suitable location for NHL expansion. Smith and his group are focused on making this relocation happen for the 2024-25 NHL season. Salt Lake City’s selection over other potential locations, such as Houston, reflects the league’s optimism about expanding hockey markets in the western United States. The successes of teams like the Seattle Kraken and Vegas Golden Knights have further fueled this optimism.
The possible relocation of the Coyotes to Salt Lake City marks a significant development in the franchise’s history. From its origins as the Winnipeg Jets to its troubled tenure in Arizona, the team has undergone multiple ownership changes and relocations. The move to Utah, under the ownership of Ryan Smith’s group, presents a new chapter for the Coyotes and offers opportunities for growth in a new market. With strong support from the city and enthusiastic plans for the future, Salt Lake City seems poised to welcome the Coyotes and provide them with a fresh start in the NHL.
Overall, the Arizona Coyotes’ potential move to Salt Lake City represents a major shift for the franchise and reflects the evolving landscape of the NHL. Amidst challenges in securing a long-term home in Arizona, the opportunity to relocate to Utah offers the team a chance to thrive in a new market. With support from city officials and passionate sports fans, the Coyotes’ transition to Salt Lake City for the 2024-25 NHL season is a significant development that could pave the way for a successful future for the franchise.
