The Coyotes may be safe in Phoenix, after all, as reports have surfaced that a new ownership group is interested in purchasing the team and keeping it in the city.
According to the Toronto Sun and the Phoenix Business Journal, this new group is the leading candidate to buy the Coyotes from the NHL.
Ice Edge Holdings LLC, which has been pursuing the Coyotes since they've been up for sale, released a statement Monday indicating their desire to become a part of this new ownership group.
"We understand another party that we have become acquainted with is in advanced negotiations with Glendale and an announcement could happen soon," Ice Edge CEO Keith McCullough said. "If this occurs, we expect to continue to be involved with the Coyotes as an adviser for the foreseeable future."
The NHL has until the end of this calendar year to find a buyer to keep the Coyotes in Phoenix. Should that date pass without a new owner, outside buyers will have the opportunity to pursue the team and relocate it to another city.
According to sources, a group interested in moving the Coyotes to a Canadian market has already notified the League of its intention, should the team remain available after Dec. 31.
The Atlanta Thrashers are another team in pursuit of a new ownership group. Sources tell TFP a group has emerged in that market, as well, to buy the Thrashers, the NBA's Atlanta Hawks and Phillips Arena.
Files from:
Toronto Sun
