They came together in Tempe, Arizona, one final time because when you feel shattered inside and your thoughts are swirling, being together helps.
Coyotes Arizona, Moving on to Salt Lake City
In its 28 years, the Arizona Coyotes showed us how to handle tough situations, find some good even in the chaos, and taught us what mistakes to avoid in managing a sports team.
When looking at the Coyotes’ big win against the Oilers and their move to Salt Lake City, it’s important to see what they’re leaving behind.
Fans wearing Kachina costumes stood outside Mullett Arena late into the night, saying goodbye to players as they left for the final time. Staff members took photos together, wiped away tears, and shared memories. It was a true community of people deeply passionate about the game, a level of dedication few would have expected when the original Winnipeg Jets moved to the desert in 1996.
“Hockey means so much more than just a game,” stated Shane Doan, who holds every significant record for the Coyotes/Jets franchise. He then joined fans for handshakes, hugs, and selfies during the intermission of the final game.
“It’s all about the connections we’ve built, the fans who support us, and the dedicated staff who’ve spent their entire careers here. From the security and ticket personnel to everyone involved, we’re a close-knit team, and saying goodbye is really hard.”
They’re not the only tight-knit community to be reminded that business can disrupt their passion. The NHL relocated the North Stars from Minnesota and transformed the Nordiques into the Avalanche just before a Stanley Cup run. They moved a team from Atlanta to Calgary, then another from Atlanta to Winnipeg, and are now thinking about expanding into Georgia for the third time.
It’s clear why the Coyotes’ journey has led them here. The 4,600-seat Mullett Arena was buzzing with excitement for their final game, feeling more like a party than a farewell. But in the end, it’s evident that staying at Arizona State University’s campus lacks the professionalism and resources needed. There are better financial prospects and opportunities elsewhere.
The building was so crowded that as the Coyotes bid farewell, fans could reach out and touch head coach André Tourigny while he was being interviewed by reporters. They also had a great view when equipment manager Stan Wilson, who’s been with the team since day one, hugged everyone he could find from the bench after the game ended.
“Wilson is truly one of the greatest guys around,” Coyotes forward Clayton Keller shared. “It was really tough to see him get emotional. And the fans, they’ve always had our backs through thick and thin over the years.”
The owner, Alex Meruelo, was missing from the arena when Liam O’Brien, a beloved player, made a big move by scoring first against Edmonton. The goal happened in a fortunate way, with the puck bouncing off a referee and landing right in front of O’Brien, who took advantage of the opportunity.
O’Brien expressed feeling a whirlwind of emotions. “I’m still sorting through it all,” he said. “Taking it one day at a time, step by step.”
Things got pretty chaotic for this group once rumors began spreading about the Coyotes relocating to Utah while they were in Vancouver on April 10 getting ready for a game. Despite this, they managed to win three out of their last four games. But it wasn’t business as usual—they had to fit in extra meetings, conference calls, and even plan a team visit to their new home amidst all the chaos.
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It’s tough for Arizona fans right now. They’ve put in so much effort and support, only to see some promising players making big strides. Dylan Guenther’s been scoring goals like crazy lately, Logan Cooley had an impressive rookie season with 44 points, and Josh Doan, Shane’s son, had a dream start in the NHL with nine points in his first 11 games. Losing this group would be a real blow.
Soon, all those players will be thriving elsewhere.
“It’s hard to wrap my head around it or even believe it,” Cooley expressed. “It still doesn’t quite sink in that this is really unfolding.“
But if you remember where it all began, there’s a chance for hope in the future. We’ll get to create a new hockey community again.
“I explained to Josh that this situation reminds me of when I left Winnipeg. It was tough and emotional leaving there, but coming to Arizona was like starting a new chapter in life. I never imagined myself living here, but being in Arizona has turned out to be an amazing experience, and I’ve been fortunate to be part of something special.”
“Go ahead and do it. If Salt Lake City is where it’s all happening, then head there and have a great time.”
“The Coyotes players and staff didn’t decide to leave the Valley. But they’ll still leave behind a little something here.”
“Tourigny said, ‘If there’s a paradise, it’s close by. I’m not sure exactly where, but it’s not too far from here.'”
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