Who will be the Arizona Coyotes MVP this Season?
By Adam Pierce
We are just two weeks out from the start of the 2014-2015 NHL season and the Arizona Coyotes are ready to show the league that they are a playoff contender. The Coyotes have not made the playoffs since their historic 2012 playoff run to the Western Conference Final but 2014 will likely break that drought. With new management, an experienced coach, a captain with the drive and motivation, and a team that is willing to fight their way to victory; the time is now. Each player on the Arizona Coyotes roster provides a unique piece to the team puzzle and Howlin’ Hockey wants to know who you think is going to be the player that leads the pack this year. Which Arizona Coyote will be the team’s most valuable player this coming season?
The Candidates:
Shane Doan
Jan 22, 2014; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Phoenix Coyotes right wing Shane Doan (19) screens in front of Calgary Flames goalie Karri Ramo (31) during the third period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Calgary Flames won 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports
Captain Coyote himself has been with the team since the humble begins. As a prominent ambassador for the sport of hockey and a loyal leader to his squad, Shane Doan is ready to cap his career off with his name etched into Lord Stanley’s Cup. Doan turns 38 this season so his time on the ice is coming to a close as he enters his 18th season in a Coyotes sweater. His leadership propels the team to its full potential as he motivates his team on and off the ice. Even with his old age Shane Doan can attribute to the stat sheet as last season he accumulated 47 points through 69 games played. Will our fearless leader produce those same numbers this season? Only time will tell.
Keith Yandle
Jan. 20, 2013; Glendale, AZ, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets left wing Nick Foligno (71) and Phoenix Coyotes defenseman Keith Yandle (3) battle for the puck during the second period at Jobing.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Keith Yandle enters his 9th season with the Arizona Coyotes and is looking to put up the same numbers he did last season. Yandle led the team in points with 53 as one of the most electrifying offensive defensemen in this league. With quick hands, a powerful slap shot, and the ability to separate opposing players from the puck; Keith Yandle is the real deal. Whether your opinion is to trade him or keep him, Yandle is a pivotal component of how the Arizona Coyotes team operates. Do not be surprised if he leads the team in points for a third consecutive season.
Mike Smith
Jan 19, 2013; Dallas, TX, USA; Phoenix Coyotes goalie Mike Smith (41) faces the Dallas Stars offensive attack during the game at the American Airlines Center. The Stars defeated the Coyotes 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
As the last line of defense for the Arizona Coyotes, Mike Smith is someone that you can never forget. Whether its his ability to play the puck, make acrobatic saves, or defend his teammates in heated exchanges; this guy is fun to watch. Injuries have limited Smitty’s playing time the past couple seasons but he is back and healthier than ever for the puck drop two weeks from now. Smith is looking to improve on his 2.64 GAA and .915 SV% from just a year ago to launch his team into the playoffs. Vezina trophy candidate? We will just have to see.
Oliver Ekman-Larsson
Jan 22, 2014; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Phoenix Coyotes defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) controls the puck against the Calgary Flames during the first period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Calgary Flames won 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports
Ekman-Larsson solidified himself as the future franchise player for the Arizona Coyotes after inking a six year deal in March of 2013. His presence near the blue line is felt across the league as he has become one of the top defensmen in the NHL. At the ripe age of 23, OEL has a long and promising career ahead of him. Oliver is looking to build from his 44 point season last year and contribute to this Coyotes team in more ways than before. It won’t be long before Oliver Ekman-Larsson adds “Norris Trophy Winner” to his resume.
Mikkel Boedker
Jan 4, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Phoenix Coyotes left wing Mikkel Boedker (89) scores on Philadelphia Flyers goalie Steve Mason (35) during the second period at Jobing.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
As the highest Danish player to be drafted in the NHL, Mikkel Boedker has a lot to prove. Boedker seemed like a draft bust in his first couple seasons with the Coyotes but proved to the team that he is ready to compete after scoring 51 points last year. Boedker is looking to be a first line winger for the Coyotes and produce a fifty point effort for the team again this season. With fluent skating abilities and an accurate wrist shot, this sniper is ready to score.
Now its time for your voice to be heard! Who do you think will be the MVP this year?