Report: NHL Working On Two Versions Of Schedule In Case Coyotes Move To Salt Lake City

The Arizona Coyotes struggles with finding a long-term arena solution are well-documented, but according to a report from Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli, things may be shakier than ever, and the NHL is planning for a 2024-25 seasons that could see the 'Yotes playing in Salt Lake City.

In his report, Seravalli cites multiple sources that say the NHL is working on two versions of the league's schedule matrix for the 2024-25 season. One of these versions uses the Coyotes in Arizona, while the other has them in Salt Lake City

Obviously, nothing is set in stone next year, but that's precisely why it makes sense that the NHL would be devising a contingency plan if the Coyotes need to relocate.

A big date on the calendar is June 27, which is when the Coyotes plan to win a public auction for a piece of land in Phoenix that would then (if all goes according to plan) become the site of an arena and entertainment district.

However, as Seravalli notes, there's a possibility that before that date, the Coyotes might be on their way out of town if owner Alex Meruelo — who is reportedly involved in both versions of the schedule — decides to sell the team to Utah Jazz owner Ryan Smith.

Just this week, Smith asked fans what they think a Utah-based NHL team should be called.

Rather conspicuous timing, huh?

READ: SCOTTSDALE MAYOR NOT BIG ON PLANS FOR COYOTES NEW ARENA

Seravalli's sources made it clear that no deal is complete, but something will need to happen in the next couple of months, but could come as soon as next week after the team's final regular-season game if a deal is struck between now and then.

The veteran hockey reporter also floated a fascinating possibility that Meruelo could hypothetically sell the Coyotes, but still buy the land in Phoenix, build an arena, and possibly try to get an NHL expansion franchise.

That would be some serious 3D chess…

Whatever happens, the situation surrounding the Coyotes is one to watch because as you can see — with arena renderings being released only about a week before this report — things can change in a hurry.