Thomas Hawthorne, Thomas Hawthorne/The Republic, Arizona Republic via Imagn Content Services, LLC
Coyotes Owner Will Remain Part of NHL Board of Governors Despite Salt Lake City Relocation
According to Arizona Sports’ John Gambadoro, Coyotes owner Alex Meruelo will remain part of the NHL Board of Governors as an observer.
Meruelo will remain in control of the Tucson Roadrunners while also staying committed to winning an auction on June 27 for land in northeast Phoenix, attempting to bring the NHL back to Arizona in the near future.
Gambadoro also reported that Meruelo agreed to sell the team after he secured a contractual right to reactivate the franchise within 5 years of the date of the agreement and trigger an expansion draft if an arena is built.
Meruelo made his first public statement on the Coyotes’ probable relocation to Salt Lake City, but unfortunately didn’t convey much optimism.
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“There has been a lot of discussion in recent days about the future of the Arizona Coyotes. I understand and empathize with the concerns of our fans, our community, our partners, our players, our front office, and all of our team members. I hope to address these issues as soon as I am able to speak on the topics.
“We are focused on a myriad of issues that are unresolved, and therefore we are unable to make any official public comments at this time. However, you have my commitment that I am going to speak on all of these issues and publicly address all of your concerns as promptly as possible. Respectfully, Alex Meruelo Chairman & Governor”
On Saturday, the Phoenix mayor's office released two letters sent by the Coyotes asking for a meeting with the mayor about a proposed arena and entertainment district and Meruelo’s commitment to winning the auction that will secure land in Phoenix.
While there is some hope that professional hockey can make its way back to Arizona one day, it’s so strange to see Meruelo most likely relocate the Coyotes to Salt Lake City yet still trying to build a sports and entertainment district in order to revive the team in a few years.
