The NHL officials appear to remain steadfast in the belief that a franchise should be in the Phoenix area, but the team's latest plans to construct an arena are still murky.
The Coyotes' future in Arizona is in doubt. Last May, voters rejected the NHL franchise's plan for a multibillion-dollar entertainment district in Tempe. The team continues to play home games at Mullett Arena on the campus of Arizona State University during the ongoing 2023-24 season. The facility can only seat 5,000 spectators. The team also played in the arena throughout the 2022-23 season.
After prospective owner Ryan Smith solicited earlier this week suggestions for a team name, word emerged Wednesday that the league has been working on contingency plans in case the Coyotes move this summer. Smith also owns the Utah Jazz. The NHL has been working on two schedule drafts for next season in case the team is in Arizona or playing under a different name in Utah, a person familiar with the planning told The Associated Press.
The schedule for next season is usually released in late June, after the Stanley Cup is handed out, around the draft and before free agency opens July 1. Commissioner Gary Bettman, when asked last month about the schedule and the possible contingency plans, said only, 'We still have some time.' While the NHL, Coyotes and Smith Entertainment Group declined comment on the dual-schedule report, other machinations are underway to prepare for possible relocation.
During conversations over the course of the past two years, we have been impressed by Ryan and Ashley Smith’s commitment to their community and their passion and vision for Utah, not only as a hockey market but as a preeminent sports and entertainment destination,' the NHL said in a statement in January. 'Utah is a promising market, and we look forward to continuing our discussions.
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