CALGARY, ALBERTA — The Arizona Coyotes are facing uncertainty about their future as rumors swirl about a potential relocation to Salt Lake City. The team’s possible final game in their current home city adds an emotional layer to their upcoming matchup against the Calgary Flames.
Following a loss to the Flames, Coyotes head coach Andre Tourigny acknowledged the challenging circumstances and the need for a day off to regroup. The news of the NHL’s preparation for a potential relocation has cast a shadow over the team’s last week of the season in Arizona.
Amidst the speculation, Coyotes players have shown resilience on the ice, finishing their road trip with victories over playoff-bound teams like the Vancouver Canucks and Edmonton Oilers. Despite the distractions, players like Alex Kerfoot emphasize the importance of staying focused on the game and maintaining professionalism.
The Coyotes’ history has been marred by business-related issues, including being forced to leave their previous home at Gila River Arena in Glendale. The team currently plays at Mullett Arena, a smaller venue on the Arizona State University campus, as they await the resolution of their new home bid in North Phoenix.
As players like Clayton Keller and Lawson Crouse navigate the uncertainty surrounding the team’s future, there is a sense of empathy from their opponents, such as Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson. The potential upheaval highlights the personal impact on players who have called Arizona home for a significant part of their careers.
Despite the off-ice turmoil, the Coyotes remain focused on finishing the season strong, with their final game potentially marking the end of an era in Arizona hockey. The game against the Edmonton Oilers serves as a bittersweet reminder of the team’s uncertain future and the resilience they have shown throughout the season.