• Loading stock data...
Thursday, October 16, 2025

NHL Execs Ice Cold On Coyotes’ Arena Plans

Arizona-Coyotes
Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports/Design: Alex Brooks

The NHL’s Arizona Coyotes revealed potential plans to play at Arizona State University’s rink for the next few seasons, but executives around the league are reportedly concerned, some even labeling the situation a “nightmare” and “embarrassing.”

With a seating capacity of 5,000, the facility is roughly three times smaller than the average NHL arena. Executives told The Athletic that playing at a smaller arena could affect player salaries, escrow, and teams’ bottom lines.

The average revenue for an NHL team was $140.9 million during the 2019-20 season.

For now, Coyotes have to be out of Glendale’s Gila River Arena by June 30.

  • In August, Glendale said it would not renew its lease due to financial obligations that were not met.
  • In September, the Coyotes unveiled their $1.7 billion arena proposal, calling for roughly $200 million from taxpayers.
  • The team paid all of its delinquent city and state taxes — around $1.3 million — in December, avoiding eviction.
  • PHNX Sports reported the Tempe City Council was leaning against the venue, and one organization is calling on residents to voice their disapproval to the council.

One NHL executive said he wouldn’t be surprised if the owners were forced to move or sell.

Far From Ideal

Another potential issue with playing at ASU is the Coyotes would have to abide by NCAA rules, which would leave locker rooms, training facilities, and workout areas out of the equation. 

Morgan was told that the additional areas would cost $15 million to $20 million, which would have to come straight from owner Alex Meruelo.

Linkedin
Whatsapp
Copy Link
Link Copied
Link Copied

What to Read

NHL Raises Concerns Over 2026 Olympic Arena’s Delayed Construction

The commissioner says construction progress in Italy remains a deep concern.

Texas-Oklahoma Gets 8.7M Viewers, Most-Watched CFB Game of Week 7

The Red River Rivalry was the most-watched game of the weekend.
Cody Campbell

Texas Tech Booster Cody Campbell Slams Conference PE Deals

Campbell said the concept goes against “all the laws of finance.”

Featured Today

May 25, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Derek Jeter walks the red carpet on Sunday, May 25, 2025, ahead of the 109th running of the Indianapolis 500 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway

The Players’ Tribune Is Still Kicking 11 Years Later

Founder Derek Jeter is still closely involved in the publication.
Las Vegas Aces center A'ja Wilson (22) celebrates with her teammates after her last second shot to take the lead 90-88 against the Phoenix Mercury in Game 3 of the WNBA Finals at Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix on Oct. 8, 2025.
exclusive
October 10, 2025

Standoff Over WNBA’s Future Has Dominated Finals

CBA negotiations have stolen the spotlight from the Aces’ dominant performance.
Paul Cartier
October 5, 2025

Sports Organists Are Still Thriving in the Era of Raucous Arena Music

“When they walk out and they see a real organ guy, it’s like, ‘Wow.’”
Sep 27, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Brewers center fielder Jackson Chourio (11) rounds the bases after hitting a home run during the sixth inning against the Cincinnati Reds at American Family Field.
October 4, 2025

Milwaukee Moneyball: Brewers Are Beating MLB’s Deeper Pockets

Milwaukee is holding its own against big-budget competitors.

Bears Hit Another Speed Bump for New $5B Stadium in Suburbs

A new state bill would impose several conditions on the NFL team.
Nov 17, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Detailed view of a Cleveland Browns helmet on a time out against the New Orleans Saints during the first half at Caesars Superdome.
October 7, 2025

Cleveland Takes New Shot at Blocking Browns’ $2.4B Stadium

A new lawsuit challenges a permit for the NFL team’s planned stadium.
October 13, 2025

Browns, Cleveland Reach $100M Deal to Clear Team’s Move to Suburbs

The surprise truce includes financial payments and the dismissal of lawsuits.
Sponsored

How Jenny Just Is Shaping the Future of Sports Ownership

Jenny Just on bringing her investment experience to sports ownership.
October 7, 2025

Rays Owner Eyes New ‘Forever Home’ Like Atlanta’s Battery

The club’s new owners target a new ballpark opening in 2029.
Sep 23, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Stars forward Adam Erne (76) looks on during the game between the Dallas Stars and the Minnesota Wild at American Airlines Center
exclusive
October 3, 2025

Dallas Stars Eyeing Possible Move to Plano in 2031

The team needs to figure out where they’ll play starting in 2031.
Chicago Bears stadium rendering
October 1, 2025

Bears Want $855M in Public Money for Suburban Stadium

The NFL team details an updated ask for public money.
September 29, 2025

A’s Unveil Sacramento Jerseys As Vegas Development Advances

The club unveils an alternate “Sacramento” jersey as Las Vegas plans advance.