Arizona Coyotes to Undergo Crucial Auction for Prospective Arena on June 27

Thursday, April 4th, 2024

On June 27th, the Arizona Coyotes will make a pivotal move concerning their future arena, aiming to acquire a 95-acre piece of land in north Phoenix. The proposal includes plans for a new arena, a practice center, a theater, and residential spaces.

Xavier Gutierrez, the president of the team, has shared an expected timeline for this ambitious project. They plan to start building in 2025, aiming to finish by the autumn of 2027. This new arena is designed to hold 17,000 fixed seats for NHL games, with the flexibility to add more seating for other events.

Since 2022, the Coyotes have been playing at Mullett Arena, under a three-year lease that includes options to extend up to the 2026-2027 season. The team’s pursuit of a long-term home has been under scrutiny, particularly from the NHLPA, which suggests the team should consider moving if they can't secure a new arena by season's end.

Nevertheless, Gary Bettman, the NHL commissioner, has shown support for the Coyotes' efforts to stay in Arizona. Bill Daly, the deputy commissioner, even mentioned the likelihood of the team continuing to play in Arizona next season, regardless of the auction outcome.

However, a failed bid could prompt the NHL to think about moving the franchise. The Coyotes have previously encountered challenges in finding a permanent home, notably when they had to leave Gila River Arena after Glendale chose to terminate their lease agreement in 2015.

Gutierrez sees acquiring this land as key to ensuring the team's stability and providing a much-needed facility for the region's hockey enthusiasts and the broader community eager to spend on entertainment.

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