By Ken Knoph
(Phoenix,AZ) A historic start to the off-season for the Detroit Red Wings and the Coyotes by jumping to the 1st and 2nd overall picks with the least amount of odds of doing so. We all know that Conner Bedard will be the number 1 pick, but what will Phoenix do. GM Knoph has been noncommittal on what he plans to do with the pick. Adam Fantilli, who would be the 1st overall pick any other year, seems to be the consensus number 2 pick. Yet, Phoenix could fetch a hefty haul of picks, money or players if they choose to trade the pick.
As for the current roster, the GM stated that there will be some changes. Mr.Knoph sent me an email of the possible moves that could happen. Either Defensemen Dustin Byfuglien or Micro Mueller could be moved in a trade. The Coyotes plan for center Leon Draisaitl is to resign to a long term contract for a cap friendly salary. If he is not willing to work on a new deal, the team feels it may be time to move on. Also, the team plans to resign a few of their own RFAs. With the new rules, 3 players are expected to be playing on the pro roster this year. Mr.Knoph says the team plans to be active in the offseason with trades and free agency , however that is all contingent on how the resign phase plays out.
After 4 straight seasons of missing the playoffs, the organization and GM plan to do everything necessary to break that drought.
GO Yotes!
Charles CarMichael
Arizona Gazette
4/12/2023 - 268 words
