There are several questions as to why the NHL persists in keeping this financially struggling team in Arizona, given that it has never been profitable since its arrival in 1996. Moreover, since the 2022-2023 season, the Coyotes have been playing in an arena with only 5,000 seats, the Mullet Arena, which significantly restricts the franchise's revenue.
In recent months, a project to build a new arena in Tempe has been on hold due to a referendum scheduled for May 16. Two camps are opposed, with some not wanting the construction of a new building near the Sky Harbour International Airport.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman recently visited Arizona to once again support the Coyotes and defend the Arizona market. However, what caught the attention was his statement on the future of the Coyotes if the arena construction project was approved by the population.
However, it's important not to get too excited too quickly, as last March, the City of Phoenix threatened to sue the municipality of Tempe if it continued with its project.
Even if the project does not receive the approval of the population, it is likely that the NHL Commissioner will find another solution to keep the Coyotes in Arizona. This will once again disappoint hockey fans in Quebec who still hope for the return of the Nordiques.
