The Daily: Arizona Off The NHL Map, Former GM Rips League

Arizona Coyotes fans said ‘goodbye’ to their NHL team in what was a teary affair for some of them. It was an emotional night as the Coyotes won their final game over the Edmonton Oilers.

The NHL’s Board of Governors will vote today to approve the Coyotes sale to Ryan Smith who owns the NBA’s Utah Jazz.

This franchise was originally located in Winnipeg, but relocated to Ari,zona in 1996. It was originally located in downtown Phoenix, but the arena wasn’t suited for hockey.  Since 1996, the Coyotes have endured multiple ownership groups, arena changes, arena proposals and even bankruptcy. The situation reached a layer of ridiculousness when it was forced to move into the college-sized arena at Arizona State. Capacity was 4,500.

In theory, the current Coyotes owner Alex Meruelo retains the right to bring a team back to Arizona if he can get an arena built in five years.

Former NHL general manager Brian Burke slammed league officials for thinking that moving to Utah is a good idea.

Red Wings fan will remember the Coyotes’ final season because the team beat the Red Wings twice down the stretch. Those losses may have cost Detroit a playoff spot. The Red Wings lost to Washington on a tiebreaker.

Red Wings In Case You Missed It

• Detroit prospect defenseman Axel Sandin-Pellikka has been delivered for Skelleftea in the Swedish Hockey League playoffs.
• Red Wings sign two-time NCAA championship defenseman. Shai Buium heading to the Grand Rapids Griffins.
• Paywall story: What are the first problems GM Steve Yzerman should address? Here are the five issues at the top of the list . Sign up today for a subscription and receive $10. Use the promo code Kevin10.

Red Wings Offseason

As expected, Zach Aston-Reese and Simon Edvinsson rejoined the Grand Rapids Griffins for their playoff run. Detroit placed Austin Czarnik on waivers. Presuming he clears waivers, he will also be with Grand Rapids.

Hockey Now Network

Boston: Is coach Jim Montgomery nervous about another first round exit for the Boston Bruins?

Colorado: The Winnipeg Jets have claimed home ice advantage against the Colorado Avalanche for their first-round series.

Florida: Carter Verhaeghe has already has an impact on the Florida Panthers since returning to the lineup.

Philadelphia: Snide Alex Ovechkin thanks the Philadelphia Flyers for pulling their goalie, which helped Washington earn a playoff spot.

Pittsburgh: Veteran forward Jeff Carter announced his retirement after playing the Pittsburgh Penguins‘ final game this season.