NHL Franchise Relocation Restrictions: In Re Dewey Ranch Hockey and Antitrust
By Alana C. Newhook
Professional sports leagues have a long history when it comes to antitrust law. In 2009, the attempted sale and move of the bankrupt Phoenix Coyotes brought antitrust issues of franchise relocation restrictions back into the limelight. While bankruptcy law drove the case, antitrust claims attacking the validity of the NHL franchise relocation restrictions played an important role. 1
In 1995, the Winnipeg Jets moved to Arizona to form the Phoenix Coyotes. 2 In