Phoenix Coyotes Franchise Could Be Folded Instead of Relocated

Speculation is beginning to grow -- particularly in Canada -- that if Greg Jamison can’t complete a purchase of the Phoenix Coyotes, the franchise could fold altogether.
Jamison’s bid to buy the team is now being threatened by a pair of Glendale residents who are trying to get Jamison’s arena lease deal with the city on the November ballot. The city’s voters ultimately could decide whether the team stays or goes.
If the team cannot stay in Glendale, is it possible the franchise could simply fold rather than move to another city? The answer is maybe, according to a new story from Yahoo Sports, which cites reporting from The Globe & Mail in Toronto.
The NHL could make millions by letting the Coyotes fold, then disbursing its players via a draft. Then, a city like Kansas City, Seattle or Quebec City could create a new expansion team in a year or two. The expansion fees, The Globe & Mail reports, could top $200 million, while a Coyotes relocation fee would be more in the neighborhood of $60 million.
So the annual summer ritual continues in Arizona: Will the Coyotes stay, or will they go? As usual, no one seems to have much of an idea.