Coyotes owner says he can't yet address relocation rumors

Field Level Media|published: Sat 13th April, 19:42 2024

Apr 12, 2024; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers defensemen Vincent Desharnais (73) and Arizona Coyotes forward Josh Doan (91) battles for position during the second period at Rogers Place. credits: Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports

The Arizona Coyotes' owner issued a statement Saturday, explaining his inability to comment on the subject of the team's immediate future.

Alex Meruelo, in his words via X, formerly Twitter, said he would refrain from any "official public comments" at this time.

"There has been a lot of discussion in recent days about the future of the Arizona Coyotes," he said. "I understand and empathize with the concerns of our fans, our community, our partners, our players, our front office, and all of our team members.

"I hope to address these issues as soon as I am able to speak on the topics."

He added there are many unresolved issues and "we are unable to make any official public comments at this time," while promising to address concerns "as promptly as possible."

According to reports, Coyotes general manager Bill Armstrong flew to Edmonton to tell players before their game there that the team would be moving to Salt Lake City to play next season.

Armstrong has declined comment.

Meruelo took over in 2019 as the majority stakeholder, and became the Coyotes' sole owner, as well as chairman and governor, in 2023.

-Field Level Media