Relocation Hearing for Phoenix Coyotes Moved Up to June 9

The U.S. bankruptcy judge that is overseeing the mediation proceedings between the Phoenix Coyotes and the National Hockey League has moved a hearing regarding the relocation of the club from June 22 to June 9. Judge Redfield Baum said that briefs and declarations on the relocation issue are due June 5. Should the relocation issue fall in favor of the Coyotes and Research in Motion co-CEO Jim Balsillie, who has a bid on the table of $212.5 million, then the auction process would begin on June 22. Should the Baum rule in favor of the NHL, the tentative auction process would begin on September 29. The differences in the date deal with how the two sides wish to proceed with the process. The sale to Balsillie would allow time for the relocation of the Coyotes to Hamilton, Ontario Canada in time for the 2009-2010 season. In the case of the NHL, who has the backing of the City of Glendale, the later sale auction date is due to reaching a sale without the relocation issue in play. It a...