"The Phoenix Coyotes' ongoing search for an owner has taken a positive turn.

Mike Nealy, the team's chief operating officer, told the Arizona Republic on Monday that he continues to hear from potential buyers.

Two parties are communicating with the NHL, which owns the team, and the Phoenix suburb of Glendale, which will provide $25 million to cover the team's operating losses in the 2011-12 season, Nealy said.

The two parties asked to remain anonymous during negotiations, the newspaper reported."