Arizona bankruptcy Judge Redfield T. Baum has ruled against the NHL in their pursuit of $145 million in damages from ex-Phoenix Coyotes owner Jerry Moyes, according to David Shoalts of the Globe and Mail.

While Baum's decision is just his recommendation, it's a decisive loss for the NHL:

Judge Baum's decision just a recommendation but carries great weight with U.S. Court. Baum left opening for small recovery of damages. — David Shoalts (@dshoalts) January 21, 2015

NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly has indicated that the league will appeal the decision in full.