The Coyotes have officially announced their departure from Arizona, with Salt Lake City being their new home after the sale was approved by the owners of the Utah Jazz

 TEMPE, Ariz. (AP) — The Arizona Coyotes have received the green light to relocate to Salt Lake City.

Following a unanimous vote by the NHL Board of Governors on Thursday, the $1.2 billion sale from Alex Meruelo to Utah Jazz owners Ryan and Ashley Smith has been approved, paving the way for the franchise’s move to Utah next season.

As part of the deal, there’s a provision for Arizona to potentially receive an expansion team if a new arena is constructed within the next five years, facilitated through the NHL, with a $200 million relocation fee allocated to league owners.

“We've been vocal about our interest with the NHL for about two years now,” Ryan Smith shared with The Associated Press. “We firmly believe that Utah has the potential to be an outstanding hockey market. Considering the demographics and the possibility of the Olympics returning, it all aligns perfectly.”

Ryan Smith will assume control of the franchise’s hockey operations, while Alex Meruelo will focus on business operations in Arizona, aiming to secure land for a new arena in north Phoenix.

The Tucson Roadrunners, the Coyotes’ AHL affiliate, will remain under Meruelo's ownership, with plans to relocate them to Mullett Arena, the Coyotes’ temporary home shared with Arizona State University over the past two seasons. Meruelo intends to repay the $1 billion once an expansion team is sanctioned.

“The NHL has always believed in Arizona,” NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman stated. “We commend Alex Meruelo for his dedication to the franchise and Arizona. We fully support his ongoing efforts to find a new home for the Coyotes in the desert. Additionally, we extend our gratitude to the devoted hockey fans of Arizona, who have passionately supported their team for nearly three decades, contributing to the growth of the sport.”

While Meruelo retains the Coyotes’ name, logo, and trademark, Smith’s group will rename the team. Initially, they will play at Delta Center, home of the Jazz, until a new arena is constructed.

“We will start by representing Utah on the jersey, and as we finalize the logo and other elements, it will be a one-time decision,” Smith stated. “Given the timeline, both the league and us feel it’s best to proceed with the process before making any final decisions.”

The sale marks the conclusion of the Coyotes’ lengthy quest for a permanent home. Following their relocation from Winnipeg, the franchise shared an arena with the NBA’s Phoenix Suns, moved to Glendale, and eventually ended up at Mullett Arena after Glendale withdrew from a lease agreement.

Despite receiving numerous offers since acquiring the team in 2019, Meruelo had been steadfast in his reluctance to sell. However, with uncertainties surrounding a new arena deal and concerns from the NHL and players’ association regarding Mullett Arena’s capacity, Meruelo opted to sell the team, focusing on the new arena project and potential expansion team.

“I echo Commissioner Gary Bettman and the NHL’s sentiment that it is unfair to subject our players, coaches, and staff to several more years in an arena unfit for NHL hockey,” Meruelo remarked in a statement. “However, this isn’t the end for NHL hockey in Arizona. I have secured the right to revive the team within the next five years and have retained ownership of the Coyotes name, brand, and logo. I remain dedicated to this community and to establishing a premier sports arena and entertainment district without relying on public financial assistance.”

The Coyotes bid farewell to Arizona with a 5-2 victory over the playoff-bound Edmonton Oilers. Amidst the celebration on the ice, players interacted with fans, who chanted their support.

“It’s a lot to process,” remarked Coyotes rookie forward Logan Cooley. “There’s been a lot of noise, but we’ve stayed focused on improving as a team despite the uncertainty.”

Salt Lake City officials and supporters of the city's 2034 Olympic bid have rallied behind Smith’s initiative to bring NHL hockey to Utah, enhancing the state's sports landscape with two major professional franchises.

“This announcement signifies more than just the arrival of an NHL team in Salt Lake City,” expressed Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall. “It marks the beginning of a new chapter, fostering community engagement and expanding opportunities for families, residents, and visitors in our capital city. I'm grateful for the partnership with Ryan & Ashley Smith and the entire SEG team. This marks the dawn of a transformative era, offering exciting prospects for our communities and enhancing pride in our downtown core.”