from Richard Morin of azcentral sports,

For an organization that’s dealt with its fair share of legal strife, relocation rumors and a subpar on-ice product in recent years, the Coyotes are nonetheless “excited” about the direction of their franchise and what it means for the future of hockey in the Valley.

Through the first 18 home games at Gila River Arena, the team’s attendance was up 5 percent from the same time last season and their group ticket sales ranked in the NHL’s top six, according to the Coyotes.

Team President and CEO Steve Patterson said he was encouraged by the increased statistics this season to date.

“We’re pleased to see positive indicators even given we haven’t won as many games as we would’ve liked,” Patterson said. “We have a passionate fan base here for hockey, and now we’re starting to see some improved success.”

read on