Sports
NHL Considers Relocating Arizona Coyotes to Utah for 2024-25 Season
Recent reports suggest that the NHL is exploring the possibility of relocating the Arizona Coyotes to Utah for the upcoming 2024-25 season.
Ryan and Ashley Smith, owners of the Smith Entertainment Group, are in talks to potentially acquire the Coyotes franchise, leading to speculation of a move to Utah.
The proposed relocation could see the Arizona Coyotes transition to a new home in Utah, under the ownership of the Smith Entertainment Group.
As part of the rumored deal, the NHL would purchase the Coyotes from current owner Alex Meruelo for approximately $1 billion and subsequently sell the franchise to the Smith Entertainment Group for around $1.3 billion.
If this relocation plan materializes, it could mark a significant shift for the Arizona Coyotes, who have faced challenges securing a long-term arena solution in the Phoenix area.
Commissioner Gary Bettman has historically supported the Coyotes’ presence in Arizona, emphasizing the value of the Phoenix market within the NHL.
The potential move to Utah aligns with Ryan Smith‘s previous interest in acquiring an NHL team and expanding his sports portfolio in the state.
The Arizona Coyotes currently play at Mullett Arena on the Arizona State University campus, with limited capacity for NHL games.
Despite the Coyotes’ history in Arizona since relocating from Winnipeg in 1996, ongoing arena issues have prompted consideration of a shift to Utah.
While the Coyotes’ ownership group has pursued arena development projects, such as the failed Tempe entertainment district, the latest focus is on a 95-acre land parcel in North Phoenix set for an upcoming auction.
If the relocation to Utah proceeds, it could mark a new chapter for the Coyotes franchise and provide an opportunity for Meruelo to potentially bid on an expansion team in the future.
With the NHL board informed of these developments, a potential announcement regarding the Coyotes’ relocation may be imminent in the coming weeks.
As the Coyotes wrap up their current season, speculation surrounds whether their final game at Mullett Arena will signify their farewell to the Valley of the Sun.
Stay tuned for further updates as the NHL’s plans for the Arizona Coyotes continue to unfold.
