The Arizona Coyotes have officially kicked off their tenure in Mullett Arena at Arizona State University.

The 5,000-seat arena is both the National Hockey League’s newest and smallest venue. It’s located right in the heart of the upscale campus and just east of downtown Tempe.

Mullett Arena is a fascinating temporary fix for a team seeking both to grow its fanbase and find a long-term home in the valley.

The Coyotes have their sights on a site less than two miles west of ASU at the northeast corner of the Rio Salado Parkway and Priest Drive. It’s 46 acres, owned by the City of Tempe, situated along the south bank of the Salt River.

A full-time move to Tempe would mark a big change for a team that once played in a remote suburb. The Coyotes’ previous home, Desert Diamond Arena, is now without a major tenant after an acrimonious split between the team and the City of Glendale in 2021.

But the Coyotes’ plans in Tempe have yet to be finalized, with multiple civic hurdles still left to jump over before construction can begin. Here’s a look at the status of the Coyotes’ ideated Tempe entertainment district, plus some of the potential alternatives the franchise can pursue if a deal doesn’t come to fruition.

The Coyotes are looking to build a 16,000-seat arena in downtown Tempe, Arizona that would serve as the team’s permanent home for the foreseeable future.

Back in June, NHL commissioner Gary Bettman said the Coyotes would have to sign a 30-year “non-relocation agreement” if their plan is approved by Tempe City Council.