Phoenix Suns and Mercury governor, Mat Ishbia, is on a mission to bring NHL hockey back to Arizona after the Coyotes moved to Utah. Ishbia expressed his interest in being part of the community and helping to revive the hockey scene in Arizona, stating that he is disappointed that the state no longer has an NHL team. He acknowledged the challenges that led to the Coyotes’ departure, but remains hopeful for the future.
The Coyotes faced difficulties in finding a permanent home, leading to their relocation to Utah. The team’s roster, draft picks, and hockey operations were acquired by the Smith Entertainment Group for $1.2 billion. With the Coyotes now based in Utah, Ishbia sees an opportunity to bring NHL hockey back to Arizona and restore the state’s status as a four-sport town.
In addition to his plans for an NHL team, Ishbia is also working towards building a new arena that could potentially accommodate the Suns, Mercury, and a new NHL franchise. He praised the current Footprint Center but acknowledged the need for a modern arena in the future. Ishbia emphasized his commitment to investing in basketball and the local community, indicating that his efforts will not waver.
A new arena could address the longstanding issue of finding a suitable long-term home for an NHL team in Arizona. While the return of the NHL to Arizona may be a long-term goal, Ishbia’s determination and vision suggest that it is a possibility worth pursuing. By focusing on building a new arena and fostering a strong sports community, Ishbia aims to make Arizona a vibrant sports hub once again.