Cancellation of Arizona Coyotes Land Auction Puts NHL Franchise's Return in Jeopardy

Friday, June 21st, 2024

The Arizona State Land Department has called off an auction for a piece of land meant for an Arizona Coyotes arena project, complicating efforts to revive the inactive NHL team.

The NHL has sanctioned the transfer of the Coyotes' assets to Smith Entertainment Group, which means the team will remain inactive until a new, modern facility is constructed within the next five years.

The Coyotes had plans to erect an arena on a designated parcel in north Phoenix, aiming for a completion by 2027. However, the ASLD has asked for a Special Use Permit before the auction to verify the construction plans for the proposed arena.

The Coyotes, who were hopeful of securing the land at auction, criticize the cancellation as being shortsighted and jeopardizing the return of NHL hockey to Arizona. They state that they are looking into legal options.

Despite the concerns raised by the Coyotes, Scottsdale Mayor David Ortega has raised issues about the zoning of the land, indicating that the proposal by the Coyotes may have been unrealistic.

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