Auction Cancellation Threatens Arizona Coyotes' Future

The future of professional hockey in Arizona teeters on the precipice as the Arizona State Land Department cancels an auction for land intended to be the site of a new arena for the Arizona Coyotes. This unexpected turn of events, occurring just two months after the team's ownership changed hands to a businessman hailing from Salt Lake City, Utah, casts a shadow of doubt over the team's prospects of returning to the desert.

Plans for a New Arena

The Arizona Coyotes had set their sights on a 95-acre piece of land in north Phoenix, envisioned as the location for their new arena. The team had made public their ambitious plans that encompassed not just the arena, but also a practice facility, a theater, and housing units. The Coyotes had the intention to break ground in 2025, with the arena being NHL-ready by 2027.

Special Use Permit Stalling Progress

However, the Arizona State Land Department has thrown a wrench in the workings, determining that the proposed arena would necessitate a Special Use Permit. This prerequisite, which the Coyotes need to secure before land purchase, has led to the auction's cancellation. The team has expressed their disappointment at the decision, labeling it "shortsighted" and warning that it "seriously jeopardizes the future of NHL hockey returning to the desert."

Implications of Auction Cancellation

This cancellation has far-reaching implications, affecting not just the Coyotes but the state of Arizona as well. The team has argued that the state is missing out on millions, potentially billions, of dollars that would have been directed towards K-12 education. In response to this setback, the Coyotes are now considering their legal options.

City of Phoenix's Perspective

The city of Phoenix has also chimed in on this issue, with a spokesperson stating that the proposed arena would require a special permit through the rezoning process. This process, involving public hearings, can take several months to complete. The Coyotes have yet to submit a special use permit application, but the city eagerly anticipates receiving one and collaborating with the team on the process.

Ownership and NHL Requirements

The auction's cancellation not only deals a blow to the Coyotes and their future plans, but also raises questions about the team's ownership and their capacity to fulfill NHL's requirements for reviving the franchise. The owner, Alex Meruelo, has a five-year window to construct a new arena suitable for professional hockey. Failure to meet this deadline could result in a loss of rights to an expansion franchise, making the Coyotes' future in Arizona uncertain.

Challenges in Securing Facilities for Professional Sports Teams

This incident underscores the difficulties faced by professional sports teams in securing appropriate facilities. Constructing a new arena is a multifaceted process that demands not only financial investment but also detailed planning and synchronization with local authorities. The Coyotes' predicament serves as a stark reminder that even with NHL approval, there are still considerable obstacles to overcome in bringing a team back to a city.

What's Next for Arizona Hockey?

As the Coyotes and their owners explore their legal recourse, the future of professional hockey in Arizona remains in limbo. The team's aspirations of returning to the desert have suffered a major setback. It is yet to be seen if they can surmount the obstacles and secure a new arena in the foreseeable future. Until then, Arizona's hockey fans are left in suspense about the fate of their beloved team.