Report: Coyotes in advanced talks to share 5,000-seat rink with Arizona State

The Arizona Coyotes are in advanced discussions with Arizona State's hockey program about using the school's new multipurpose arena as a temporary home, sources told Craig Morgan of PHNX Sports.

The Coyotes would use the 5,000-seat rink for all home games while they await approval and construction of a proposed permanent arena in Tempe. The franchise is reportedly negotiating a three-year deal with the Sun Devils featuring an option for a fourth season.

Due to NCAA rules, the Coyotes would not be allowed to use ASU's hockey areas, meaning they'd have to build their own. That could cost between $15 million and $20 million, one source told Morgan.

Asked whether the Coyotes would receive league approval to play in a venue with so few seats, NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly said, "(It) depends on the totality of circumstances, but I wouldn't rule it out."

The Coyotes released the following statement:

"As we have said many times, we are completely committed to building our future in Arizona. As part of that process, we are excited to be exploring some great temporary arena options here before we move in to a new permanent home in the Valley."

In August, the city of Glendale said that it will terminate the Coyotes' lease agreement for Gila River Arena, where the franchise has played since 2003-04, at the end of this season. In December, Glendale threatened to lock the team out of the arena unless the franchise paid outstanding state and city tax balances.

The Coyotes filed their bid for a new facility in September, but the evaluation process is ongoing. ASU's new arena is set to be completed in the fall.

Both NHL commissioner Gary Bettman and the franchise itself have publicly shut down relocation rumors amid the arena drama this season.

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