The Arizona Coyotes hockey team is gearing up for what could potentially be their last game in Arizona, as the franchise faces the possibility of relocation to Salt Lake City before the 2024-25 NHL season. The news was revealed on Wednesday, leaving the players and the coaching staff with uncertainty surrounding their future.

After receiving the news, head coach Andre Tourigny admitted that preparing the team for their possible farewell game in their home city was a challenge. He emphasized the need for a day off after a long and emotionally taxing road trip.

The Coyotes had just finished their penultimate game of the season, suffering a 6-5 loss to the Calgary Flames. With both teams out of playoff contention, the game held a significant symbolic weight as it marked the beginning of the franchise's final week in Arizona.

Coyotes General Manager Bill Armstrong informed the players on Friday about the potential relocation and the possibility of a visit to their supposed new home city. The team's owner, Alex Meruelo, released a statement on Saturday stating that the franchise was currently focused on unresolved issues and couldn't comment publicly on their future.

Despite the unsettling circumstances, the Coyotes showed resilience and determination during their recent five-game road trip along the West Coast and through Alberta. They managed to achieve a 3-2 record, including overtime victories against the Vancouver Canucks and the Edmonton Oilers, both of whom are bound for the playoffs.

Tourigny praised the character displayed by his players throughout the past week. However, he declined to comment when asked about how the organization had handled the situation, implying that there were ongoing challenges faced by all teams in the league.

Coyotes forward Alex Kerfoot acknowledged the distractions surrounding the team but emphasized the importance of maintaining professionalism and focusing on winning hockey games. He mentioned that rumors had constantly circulated during his time in Arizona, and the players had learned to take things day by day.

Lawson Crouse and Clayton Keller, two Coyotes players, addressed the media before their game against the Edmonton Oilers, expressing their lack of information regarding the team's situation. Crouse mentioned that they were aware of the rumors but didn't possess any additional insights. Keller highlighted the importance of focusing on hockey amid the uncertainty.

The Coyotes have been plagued by business-related issues in recent years, including disputes over their previous arena and ownership concerns. They were subsequently forced to move to Mullett Arena, a sub-5,000-seat venue on the Arizona State University campus, after being removed from Gila River Arena by the city of Glendale following failed lease extension discussions.

As the Coyotes' ownership currently bids on a plot of land in North Phoenix to construct a new home, the team was expected to continue playing at Mullett Arena until the 2024-25 season. However, if the relocation plans are finalized, these arrangements may become irrelevant.

The uncertainty surrounding the Coyotes' future has garnered sympathy from players on other teams. Calgary Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson expressed empathy for the Coyotes players, particularly those who have called Arizona their home for a long time. He acknowledged the challenges they may face if they are forced to move without much information.

The Coyotes' final game of the season, and potentially their last in Arizona, is scheduled for Wednesday night against the Edmonton Oilers. As the team prepares to take the ice, their focus remains on finishing the season strong while grappling with the unknowns that lie ahead.