Arena, Guenther & Draft Talk

The Arizona Coyotes’ regular season is drawing to a close, but despite that, there is still plenty of news to cover. Most prominently, there is the talk of their new potential home in northeast Phoenix. While many don’t know that facts and rumors spew daily, the truth is that if owner Alex Meruelo can win the highly anticipated auction, he could put an end to that conversation for good. That would cement the team in Arizona for the foreseeable future, guaranteeing their future in the Valley of the Sun.

Related: Coyotes Fans Need Meruelo to Win Land Auction

Along with arena talk, we’ll discuss Dylan Guenther’s ceiling and the 2024 NHL Draft, which offers the Coyotes many opportunities to expand their ever-growing prospect pool.

The Latest With Arena Talk

It’s no secret the Coyotes have dealt with arena problems since the team relocated from Winnipeg in 1996; it’s been an ongoing issue. However, the rumors and swirlings could end with the upcoming auction, which can secure the Coyotes’ future in the Grand Canyon state. Despite that, several obstacles must be hurdled before construction or anything of that nature begins.

First, the Coyotes and company have to win the auction. That may sound like a simple task, but that’s far from the truth, as it will be a long, ten-week process. The land the Coyotes seek will be posted for approximately ten weeks before the best bid is selected. It’s fair to note that it’s not the highest bid; it’s the best possible land development with a minimum purchase bid of $69.5 million.

Now, we wait and see what the outcome will be. This could be the Coyotes’ last kick at the can in Arizona, so Meruelo can either be a hero or the opposite, but only time will tell.

What is Dylan Guenther’s Ceiling?

Guenther was general manager Bill Armstrong’s first selection as the lengthy rebuild was just starting. At the time of the pick, he was deemed a sharpshooter who arguably had the best shot in the draft. Needless to say, with the Coyotes, he’s shown he can do that and more. His 11 goals and 22 points in 33 games show that, and since being called up from the Tucson Roadrunners, he’s been phenomenal.

That now begs the question, what is Guenther’s ceiling? It’s exciting to make assumptions and player comparisons, especially when things are going well, but it’s still likely too early to determine where he will be in five years or even…