The Arizona Coyotes will soon be inactive, but it might not be the end of them.
The NHL board of governors approved the relocation of the Arizona Coyotes’ hockey assets to a new franchise in Utah, the league announced Thursday. However, the terminology the league used is different than a relocation.
The board approved the establishment of a new franchise beginning next season in Utah that will be owned and controlled by Smith Entertainment Group, led by Ryan and Ashley Smith.
Once the transaction closes, the Coyotes franchise, owned by Alex Meruelo, will transfer all of its hockey assets to the Utah franchise, which includes its full reserve list, roster of players, draft picks and hockey operations department.
At that point, the Coyotes will be rendered inactive. But the board approved a plan that gives Meruelo and the Coyotes the right to reactivate the franchise if they have fully constructed a “new, state-of-the-art facility appropriate for an NHL team within five years.”
Board approves establishment of new franchise in Utah, future reactivation of Arizona franchise should conditions be met.
Full Details: https://t.co/N1XUqwYir1 pic.twitter.com/epZkIv5GZP
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) April 18, 2024
“I agree with commissioner Gary Bettman and the National Hockey League, that it is simply unfair to continue to have our players, coaches, hockey front office and the NHL teams they compete against, spend several more years playing in an arena that is not suited for NHL hockey,” Meruelo said in a statement. “But this is not the end for NHL hockey in Arizona.
“I remain committed to this community and to building a first-class sports arena and entertainment district without seeking financial support from the public.”
Bettman added the NHL’s belief in Arizona hockey has never wavered and said the league fully supports Meruelo’s efforts to secure a new home for the Coyotes.
“We also want to acknowledge the loyal hockey fans of Arizona, who have supported their team with dedication for nearly three decades while growing the game.”
More to come.
News Summary:
- NHL Board Approves New Franchise in Utah: How an Arizona Franchise Could Return
- Check all news and articles from the latest NHL updates.