The recent public vote in Tempe, Arizona, has cast a shadow over the future of the Arizona Coyotes. The team’s ambitious proposal for a new arena and entertainment district has been defeated, leaving the Coyotes and their fans uncertain. This development could have significant implications for the team, the city of Tempe, and the broader landscape of professional hockey.
The Vote and Its Immediate Aftermath
The Arizona Coyotes’ plans for a $2.1 billion entertainment district, centered around a 16,000-seat arena, were met with resistance from the local community. Despite unanimous support from the Tempe city council and several former mayors, the public vote saw the proposal defeated. The “No” campaign secured 56 percent of the votes, effectively blocking the Coyotes’ plans.
The Coyotes had hoped to build their new home on a former toxic landfill site along the Rio Salado Parkway, close to the Arizona State University campus. However, the public’s rejection of the proposal has left the team’s future hanging in the balance.
The Coyotes’ Current Situation
The Coyotes currently play their regular season at the 4,600-seat Mullett Arena on the Arizona State University campus. This arrangement is part of a three-year agreement with ASU, with an option for a fourth year. However, the defeat of the arena proposal has raised questions about the team’s long-term future.
The team’s relationship with its former home, the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, has been strained, making a return unlikely. The Footprint Center, which previously hosted the Coyotes, has been renovated and no longer has the capability to support a hockey team.
Looking Ahead: Possible Relocation?
With the defeat of the arena proposal, the possibility of relocation has been brought into the discussion. Potential markets for the Coyotes include Houston, Portland, Kansas City, and Quebec City. These locations could become viable options if the team is unable to secure a backup plan in Arizona.
The NHL Players’ Association, now led by Marty Walsh, may also have a say in the matter, particularly if it objects to the team continuing to play at the smaller Mullett Arena.
The defeat of the Coyotes’ arena proposal in Tempe is a significant development that could have far-reaching consequences for the team. The public vote has not only blocked the team’s ambitious plans but also cast doubt on its future in Arizona. As the Coyotes and their fans grapple with this uncertainty, the broader hockey world will be watching closely to see what steps the team takes next.
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