The Arizona Coyotes are in the process of relocating to Salt Lake City for the 2024-25 NHL season, as approved by the Board of Governors in a complex two-stage transaction. This move will necessitate extensive preparations, including renovations to the Delta Center, rebranding the team, finding a new practice facility, and establishing ticket sales.
The Delta Center, which currently serves as the home of the NBA’s Jazz, will require substantial upgrades to accommodate NHL games. Renovations will focus on enhancing sightlines and implementing infrastructure tailored to hockey-specific needs. Furthermore, the team will undergo a rebranding process since the Coyotes name will remain with the previous owner. Securing a separate practice facility for the franchise and organizing ticket sales operations will also be pivotal tasks to complete before the upcoming season.
Although new owner Ryan Smith has expressed confidence in the preparations, he has also acknowledged the extensive work that lies ahead. He has emphasized the necessity of a collaborative effort to ensure a successful transition for the team and its supporters in Salt Lake City.
Meanwhile, previous owner Alex Meruelo will retain the Coyotes name and associated intellectual property in the Phoenix market. The Arizona franchise will be deemed “inactive,” providing Meruelo with a defined five-year window to pursue an arena project in the Phoenix market, a goal he has long desired. One of his objectives is to acquire a parcel of state-owned land in north Phoenix through a land auction scheduled for June.
Meruelo has emphasized the importance of securing a suitable arena for NHL hockey in Phoenix and has expressed determination to continue the legacy of NHL hockey in Arizona. These upcoming developments signify a significant shift in the landscape of professional sports in both Utah and Arizona, presenting various challenges and opportunities for both regions.