Back To Phoenix

Some interesting news hit the wires today as the Phoenix Business Journal is reporting that there is a new bid for the Phoenix Coyotes, and the mystery buyer wants to keep the team in the Glendale, Arizona locale! Honestly, between all the Ice Edge Holdings news and the possibility of the team relocating back to its original home of Winnipeg, Manitoba, I have been ready to close the book on this story until something significant happened. With new owners on the horizon and a commitment to keep the team in Arizona, the Coyotes may have received the best news they've heard all summer that hasn't included any player signings.

As the article states, there has been no names mentioned as to who is involved with this possible bid, but it sounds as though Ice Edge may not be fully out of the picture.

"We understand another party that we have become acquainted with is in advanced negotiations with Glendale and an announcement could happen soon. If this occurs, we expect to continue to be involved with the Coyotes as an adviser for the foreseeable future," Ice Edge CEO Keith McCullough said in a statement. Ice Edge is reportedly interested in and committed to founding an ECHL franchise in Thunder Bay, Ontario at this point.

We do know that Jerry Reinsdorf is not involved, and that the purchasing group is not affiliated with True North Sports and Entertainment in Winnipeg. True North has maintained its position as a possible relocation option for an NHL franchise, but they have not ventured forth with a purchase offer at this time, according to several sources.

So who is this mystery buyer? Anyone want to venture a guess?

UPDATE: According to Yahoo!'s Puck Daddy, the mystery buyer is Matthew Hulsizer. Click the link for more details!

Until next time, keep your sticks on the ice!