The NHL is poised to take control of the Arizona Coyotes, buying the team for a billion dollars while giving the current owner, Alex Meruelo, a five-year window to secure a new arena. If he fails, the league plans to sell a new team to Utah, with owner Ryan Smith for $1.2 billion. The Coyotes’ hockey operations staff is expected to move with the new team. The NHL has informed the Coyotes’ ownership that they must pursue a new arena, or the team will not continue in its current form. Reports suggest the Coyotes may move to Utah as soon as next season due to their current arena situation in Arizona.
