The Arizona Coyotes history reflects a rich and evolving story within the Arizona Coyotes NHL franchise. Originating as the Winnipeg Jets before relocating to Arizona in 1996, the team built a loyal fan base. Over the years, they’ve experienced iconic moments, developed star players, and continue shaping their legacy in the National Hockey League.
Established
1972
City
Winnipeg – Phoenix - Salt Lake City
League History
1979 – Present / National Hockey League
1972 – 1979 / World Hockey Association
Team History
2025 - Present / Utah Mammoth
2024 - 2025 / Utah Hockey Club
2014 – 2024 / Arizona Coyotes
1996 – 2013 / Phoenix Coyotes
1972 – 1996 / Winnipeg Jets
Nickname
Coyotes – The Arizona Coyotes have been a part of the National Hockey League (NHL) since 1996, and their nickname has become an iconic symbol for hockey fans in the state. But where did this unique name come from? Let’s take a look at the origins of the Arizona Coyotes nickname!
When it was first announced that Phoenix would be getting an NHL team, there was much excitement among sports fans in Arizona. As part of this process, they needed to develop a catchy name for their new team that would capture both local pride and reflect on its home state's rich history. After months of brainstorming by members of both local government and private citizens alike, “Coyotes” emerged as one popular choice due to its connection with Native American culture in Arizona. The coyote is seen as a wise yet powerful animal by many tribes across North America, thus making it a perfect fit for a professional hockey franchise located within the desert Southwest region!
Arizona Coyotes Origin
In addition to representing cultural heritage through the mascot selection process itself – logo design also drew inspiration from traditional symbols used throughout native communities living near the area today, most notably the sun-shaped pattern, which appears prominently on the center ice during games played at Gila River Arena (home arena). This imagery reminds us all how important it is to preserve our past while embracing future opportunities presented to us each day…and perhaps even inspiring some great plays along the way!
Overall, then, we can see why ‘Coyotes' became such a popular choice when naming a new NHL franchise based out of Phoenix back in 1996; not only does the moniker honor Indigenous people who lived here long before Europeans arrived, but it also represents the strength and courage found amongst those same individuals still living nearby today too - making them perfect emblem modern sport like hockey should be proud wear proudly into future generations come!
Championship
Stanley Cups 0
Avco Cup 0
1979, 1978, 1976
Arena
2024 - Present / Delta Center
*Phoenix*
2014 – Present / Gila River Arena
2006 – 2014 / Jobing.com Arena
2003 – 2005 / Glendale Arena
1996 – 2003 / America West Arena
*Winnipeg*
1972 – 1996 / Winnipeg Arena
Owner
2024 - Present / Ryan Smith
2019 - 2024 / Alex Meruelo
2013 – 2019 / IceArizona
2009 – 2013 / National Hockey League
2006 – 2009 / Wayne Gretzky and Jerry Moyes
2001 – 2006 / Steve Ellman, Wayne Gretzky, and Jerry Moyes
1998 – 2001 / Richard Burke
1996 – 1998 / Steven Gluckstern and Richard Burke
1979 – 1996 / Barry Shenkarow
1972 – 1979 / Ben Hatskin
- 2012
- 2014
-
Coyotes Bankrupt
Due to the team’s bankruptcy status since 2009 and the annual revenue lost each year, the NHL planned to move the Coyotes should a deal with the city for a new lease and new ownership not be decided by July 2, 2013. The plan was to move the franchise to a new city, likely Seattle. On July 2, 2013, by ... -
New Name “Arizona Coyotes”
On January 29, 2014, the new ownership group announced that the team would change its name to the “Arizona Coyotes” for the 2014–15 season. According to Coyotes President Anthony LeBlanc, the change is being made to reflect that the team is no longer located within Phoenix city limits and to include all hockey fans in the state of Arizona. Aside ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Arizona Coyotes History
The Arizona Coyotes history began when the original Winnipeg Jets franchise relocated to Arizona in 1996, becoming the Phoenix Coyotes before later adopting the current name in the 2014–15 season. This change aligned the team more closely with the state identity and marked a new chapter for the Arizona Coyotes NHL franchise. The team has played its home games in the Phoenix metropolitan area, moving from America West Arena to Glendale’s Gila River Arena.
Throughout the early years of the Arizona Coyotes history, the club faced challenges with finances and arena issues but still built a strong following. Known for passionate fans and intense rivalries with teams like the Los Angeles Kings and San Jose Sharks, the Arizona Coyotes NHL franchise became an important part of hockey in the desert despite off-ice difficulties.
One of the most memorable stretches in the Arizona Coyotes history came in 2012 when the team advanced to the Western Conference Final, defeating the Chicago Blackhawks and Nashville Predators before falling to the eventual Stanley Cup champion Los Angeles Kings. This playoff run marked the deepest post-season performance for the Arizona Coyotes NHL organization and solidified its competitive potential.
The Arizona Coyotes history also features standout players such as longtime captain Shane Doan, who led the franchise for decades, and other notable stars like Keith Tkachuk, Jeremy Roenick, and Oliver Ekman-Larsson. The team has consistently developed young talent, contributing to the NHL’s growth in non-traditional markets and inspiring a new generation of hockey fans in Arizona.
Coyotes Achievements
In terms of achievements, the Arizona Coyotes NHL franchise has earned several Pacific Division titles and playoff berths, including that historic 2012 Western Conference Final appearance. While the team has yet to secure a Stanley Cup, its resilience and competitive spirit remain a hallmark of the Arizona Coyotes history.
Today, under a new ownership group and management structure, the Arizona Coyotes NHL team is focused on rebuilding its roster and securing a permanent home in the Valley. Fans remain hopeful that this new era of the Arizona Coyotes history will deliver long-awaited playoff success and eventually bring the Stanley Cup to Arizona.
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Retired Number
19 / Shane Doan
99 / Wayne Gretzky
*Blue is this team’s history