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What does the arrival of the NHL in Utah mean for the Jazz?

The speculation surrounding the NHL’s arrival in Salt Lake City is materialising into reality at an accelerated pace.

As detailed by our own Chad Porto previously, the Phoenix Coyotes are poised to be acquired by Utah Jazz owner Ryan Smith, facilitating their relocation to Salt Lake City. They are expected to commence playing in the Delta Centre for the upcoming 2024–25 season.

According to Emily Kaplan of ESPN, players have been informed of the impending relocation to Salt Lake City, signalling a definitive move by the NHL, despite previous unsuccessful attempts by current Coyotes owner Alex Meruelo to secure a stadium in Arizona.

So, what implications does this hold for the Utah Jazz?

It suggests a potential trajectory towards a new arena, a topic of prior discourse. As per the ESPN report, the NHL is purportedly seeking hockey-specific enhancements to the Delta Centre, should it serve as the Coyotes’ long-term venue.

Smith has expressed interest in a new arena, citing the Delta Centre’s age of over 30 years and the necessity for a more tailored facility for a hockey team. Possessing this leverage could propel Smith’s pursuit of a new downtown arena, complemented by an adjacent entertainment district, bolstered by favorable support from the state legislature and Governor Spencer Cox.

Furthermore, the timing aligns favourably with the recent visit of the International Olympic Committee to Utah, contemplating the city and state as potential hosts for the 2034 Winter Olympics, further incentivizing the push for a new arena.

Thus, it wouldn’t be surprising to witness the realisation of a new downtown arena and accompanying entertainment district as Utah welcomes another professional sports franchise in the near future.