Taking a Final Look at Coyotes, what needs to happen for Arizona to get a team back and more
The Arizona Coyotes played their final game at the Mullet Center. They won the game 5-2. It was a very emotional sighting. I'm not sure if Arizona's going to get another shot at hosting an NHL team again. The original Winnipeg Jets, as they once were, had to move to Phoenix because of poor ownership. Now, the Coyotes have to move because of poor ownership.
Atlanta had two chances to host two NHL teams, but they failed twice.
It wasn't because Pheonix was a nontraditional market. It was just poor ownership since its inception. Arizona is not a traditional hockey market. I think this might've just been the last season for any NHL teams based in Arizona.
The Arizona NHL fans lost their team. I understand. I've been talking about this so much on my podcast. I want people in Arizona to understand that I want them to play hockey. This state became a significant part of hockey because it produced Austin Matthews. He got 69 goals this year. It is a shame that there's not going to be a team in Arizona anymore. The Coyotes were an inspiration to so many Hockey players coming out of the state.
I think that Mr. Meruelo has failed the fans. I am sorry once again. To the people of Phoenix, Glendale, and Tuscon I know you are passionate about this team. I will agree, the owner could have done better to secure a location. When you were paying good money out of your paychecks, to go to these games, get the food, and have your team relocate is devastating.
The Coyotes should've moved in with the Suns. But that never happened. The Mullet Center never should have been the Coyotes building. It was insulting that Meruelo didn't pay his hotel bills and it's even more insulting that he couldn't pay the bills in Glendale to secure a facility.
I hope the team succeeds in Utah. We want NHL teams to succeed. But if a team isn't succeeding in a certain market, it's time to pick up and move.
Arizona could still get another shot at hosting an NHL franchise again. However, if they want to succeed, they should move in with the Suns and share an arena. The team would not have as big of a bill to rent out the area because they would be sharing it with the Suns, or with a potential college basketball team. The Suns could get a new Arena. They should build it so the sight lines would be good for both basketball and hockey.
If there is an expansion team, Muerelo should not be the owner of the potential new Arizona team.
Whatever happens, let's be grateful for the memories the Arizona/Phoenix Coyotes gave us.