Utah Mammoth

The franchise entered the NHL in 1979 as the Winnipeg Jets, one of four WHA teams absorbed into the league. The Jets featured stars like Dale Hawerchuk, who was drafted first overall in 1981 and became one of the NHL's brightest young talents. Teemu Selanne broke the rookie goal-scoring record with 76 goals in 1992-93, one of the most remarkable debut seasons in hockey history.

Despite the passionate Winnipeg fanbase, the franchise struggled financially in the small Canadian market, particularly as player salaries escalated in the 1990s. The team was sold and relocated to Phoenix in 1996, becoming the Arizona Coyotes. The move was devastating for Winnipeg fans, though the city would eventually receive a new Jets franchise in 2011 when the Atlanta Thrashers relocated.

The Arizona Coyotes (originally Phoenix Coyotes) spent nearly three decades in the greater Phoenix area, dealing with constant arena and financial challenges. The team played at multiple venues, including America West Arena, Gila River Arena in suburban Glendale, and even a temporary stint at Arizona State University's 5,000-seat Mullett Arena. The franchise went through bankruptcy in 2009, with the NHL operating the team for several years.

Despite the off-ice turmoil, the Coyotes had competitive moments, including a Western Conference Final appearance in 2012 under coach Dave Tippett. Shane Doan became the heart of the franchise, serving as captain for over a decade with unwavering loyalty. The team also developed notable players like Keith Tkachuk, Max Domi, and Clayton Keller. Ultimately, a failed arena deal in the Phoenix market led ownership to accept the opportunity to relocate to Salt Lake City.