 These efforts came close to success in the mid-1990s when Minnesota interests purchased the original Winnipeg Jets with the intention of relocating the franchise to Minnesota; however, arena negotiations fell through and the Jets instead relocated to Phoenix, Arizona.Shortly after the failed attempt to relocate the Jets, the NHL announced its intention to expand from 26 to 30 teams.Businessman and Minnetonka native Bob Naegele, Jr. became the lead investor for an application to the NHL for an expansion franchise and ultimately the first majority owner.