Arizona Coyotes Relocating to Salt Lake City
The Coyotes' 27-Year Odyssey in Arizona Comes to an End
After 27 seasons in Arizona, the Arizona Coyotes are officially moving to Salt Lake City. The move was announced on April 18, 2024, and will see the Coyotes play their home games at the Vivint Arena, home of the NBA's Utah Jazz.
A Turbulent History in Arizona
The Coyotes have played more than half of their 27 seasons in Arizona under some form of cloud, be it bankruptcy or ownership struggles. The team filed for bankruptcy in 2009 and was purchased by Canadian billionaire Anthony LeBlanc in 2013. LeBlanc sold the team to Alex Meruelo in 2019 for $300 million.
Meruelo's Failed Attempts to Keep the Coyotes in Arizona
Meruelo had hoped to keep the Coyotes in Arizona, but was unable to secure a new lease for Gila River Arena. He also explored the possibility of building a new arena in Tempe, but those plans fell through.
Salt Lake City Welcomes the Coyotes
Salt Lake City has been mentioned as a potential relocation destination for the Coyotes for several years. The city has a large and passionate hockey fan base, and the Vivint Arena is a state-of-the-art facility. The Coyotes are expected to bring a much-needed boost to the city's economy.
Barring the NBA's Phoenix Suns and Their New Owner
The Coyotes' move to Salt Lake City could have a significant impact on the NBA's Phoenix Suns. The Suns have been exploring the possibility of building a new arena in Tempe, but those plans may be put on hold if the Coyotes move to Salt Lake City. Suns owner Mat Ishbia has said that he is open to the possibility of welcoming the Coyotes as tenants at the new arena, but that decision will ultimately be up to the NBA.
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