Getting to Know The Arizona Coyotes: Mikkel Boedker

In order to be considered a top player in the NHL, one must improve his game year after year. According to the numbers, Arizona Coyotes right wing Mikkel Boedker is doing just that. While ‘Boedker’ isn’t a popular name in the league yet, his performance on the ice is not something to neglect.

The Coyotes drafted Boedker 8th overall in the 2008 NHL Draft, making him the highest drafted Danish player in the history of the league. Ever since then, his numbers have increased season by season, solidifying his position on the Coyotes roster.

Boedker is currently in the final year of his contract (2 years/$2,200,000) but if he generates the spark on offense that he did last year, an extension with the Coyotes would be in his future. Number 89 had a career year in 2013 with 19 goals, 32 assists, and 51 points in 82 games; something that head coach Dave Tippett was definitely pleased with considering Boedker’s last 82 game season (2011-2012) resulted in only 24 points.

The Coyotes drafted Boedker 8th overall in the 2008 NHL Draft, making him the highest drafted Danish player in the history of the league.

At age 24, this young man has a lot more time to grow and flourish in the league. With lightening speed and a solid set of hands, Boedker can easily maneuver his way down the ice. Boedker also embraces his role in shootouts as Coach Tippett sends him out there in the first three rounds to bring home the W.

So is he a clutch player? I’m sure you remember when he scored the overtime game winning goal against Chicago in game three of the 2012 Western Conference Quarterfinals. What about when he did the same thing, but two days later in game four? Lets just say that when the game is on the line, he can deliver. Don’t think that he is only useful on the offensive side of the puck either. Just because he’s a speed demon, doesn’t mean Boedker can’t pack a punch. Case and point against the arch rival LA Kings:

His talents are not just limited to the ice either. Boedker has been only one of two Coyotes to have graced the cover of a sports video game with his cover appearance on NHL 10 in Denmark and Norway. Aside from the video game cover, he is very active with Coyotes Charities. Whether its giving back to season ticket holders or helping improve the poorer parts of Arizona, Mikkel is always happy to help. With all that being said, his finest moment would probably have to be his debut as a weather anchor for ABC 15 Arizona.

In short, Mikkel Boedker is not a Crosby or Ovechkin in the slightest. He is, however, a player that the team can rely on to generate scoring chances and put them in a position to win. His hard work and dedication is shown through his production on the ice as he continually improves each season. It would not be surprising if he tallies up another 50 point season for the Arizona Coyotes this year.

March 4, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Vancouver Canucks goalie Eddie Lack (31) blocks a shot against Phoenix Coyotes left wing Mikkel Boedker (89) during the third period at Jobing.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports