Gary Bettman has already found a new owner for the Arizona Coyotes

PUBLICATION

Josh Tupper
July 24, 2024 (11:04 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

Phoenix Suns Owner Mat Ishbia Eyes NHL Expansion to Bring Hockey Back to Arizona

For the first time in nearly two decades, the NHL will enter a season without a franchise in Arizona. Following the controversial relocation of the Coyotes to Salt Lake City, Utah, the state's hockey future seemed uncertain. However, a new hope emerges as Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia expresses interest in reviving an NHL team in Arizona through expansion.

In an interview with Sportico, Ishbia shared his disappointment over the Coyotes' departure and his ambition to bring professional hockey back to the desert. Ishbia's comments come at a critical juncture, as the Coyotes' previous owner, Alex Meruelo, relinquished his rights to the team after a failed land auction meant for a new arena.

"I'm definitely going to be part of the community, and if I can help bring hockey back, I'll look at that. It's definitely something I'm interested in. It's a four-sport town. I'm disappointed we don't have a hockey team, but I understand what happened, and we're going to try to fix that one day."

Ishbia underscored the importance of a multi-sport environment in Phoenix, emphasizing that the city deserves to have hockey as part of its sports landscape.

"I'm disappointed we don't have a hockey team here. That's what I'll say. Phoenix is a four-sport town. Maybe five if you want to include soccer, but it's a four-sports town. Baseball, football, basketball and hockey. And I hope that one day we'll be able to get hockey back."

The Coyotes' tumultuous history in Arizona included issues with stable ownership and unsuitable venues, leading to their temporary residence at Mullett Arena, a college rink. The City of Glendale's refusal to renew the lease for Gila River Arena in 2021, citing unpaid bills, further complicated the franchise's stability.

While some fans argue that hockey doesn't belong in the desert, the Coyotes' struggles were primarily due to unstable management rather than a lack of fan support. Ishbia's potential involvement brings renewed optimism. His vision for a stable ownership and a suitable arena could provide the foundation needed for a successful NHL franchise in Arizona.

As the NHL season approaches, the potential return of hockey to Arizona hinges on securing a committed ownership group and a solid plan for infrastructure. Ishbia's interest marks a significant step towards realizing that goal, promising a hopeful future for hockey in the state.

Source: Sportsnet
Suns owner Mat Ishbia hoping to 'one day' bring NHL back to Arizona