The Phoenix Coyotes' search for a new owner has been a long and bumpy one. It might all end soon.

In a vote that may secure NHL hockey in Phoenix or end it, Glendale city council is expected to decide Tuesday night whether to approve a reconfigured $308 million US, 20-year arena deal with prospective owner Greg Jamison.

If accepted, the proposed deal would pave the way for Jamison and business partner Anthony LeBlanc to complete the purchase of the team from the NHL.

Financing is already in place for Jamison and LeBlanc to buy the team for $170 million US.

The vote is expected to be close. Current Mayor Elaine Scruggs, a former supporter of the Coyotes, is a critic of the agreement.

Backers of the deal say the city cannot afford to lose a major tenant of Jobing.com arena.

Critics point out that the city is in the middle of a financial crisis and can't afford to give money to a team that is in the middle of a labour lockout and not a major sports draw.

If the deal is rejected, many expect Jamison to drop his bid to buy the Coyotes and throw the team's future back in doubt.

The NHL has owned the team since 2009, when it bought the team out of Chapter 11 bankruptcy.