NHL's Arizona Coyotes: A History of Ups and Downs
From Relocations to New Ownership
The Arizona Coyotes are a professional ice hockey team based in the Phoenix metropolitan area. They compete in the National Hockey League (NHL). The team was founded in 1996 as the Phoenix Coyotes and played its first season in 1996–97. In 2014, the team was purchased by a group led by Andrew Barroway and renamed the Arizona Coyotes.
Financial Difficulties and Legal Battle
In 2009, the Coyotes filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The team was sold to the NHL, which took over operations and sought a new owner that would keep the franchise in Arizona. Under the leadership of coach Dave Tippett, the Coyotes won their first Presidents' Trophy in 2012.
Recent History and Future Prospects
In 2017, the City of Glendale ended its lease agreement with the Coyotes, forcing the team to seek a new home. The team currently plays its home games at Gila River Arena in Glendale. In 2021, the Coyotes were sold to a group led by Alex Meruelo, who owns the Grand Canyon University. The team has struggled in recent years, finishing last in the NHL's Western Conference in the 2021–22 season. Despite their recent struggles, the Coyotes have a promising future. The team has a young core of talented players, including Logan Cooley, Michael Carcone, and Josh Doan. With a new ownership group and a dedicated fan base, the Coyotes are poised to make a comeback in the coming years.
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