Boyd Gordon has qualities the Arizona Coyotes need
When Boyd Gordon decided to become a free agent after the shortened 2012-13 season, the Arizona Coyotes missed the qualities which define him as a player in the NHL.
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For one thing, his face-off win percentage is over the top right at 56.8%. His shot blocking is also excellent at .73 blocks a game. Think about that stat for just one moment…okay, time’s up. Throw in Michalek’s insane shot blocking capabilities, and goalie Mike Smith will be sighing a breath of relief.
Besides, Boyd Gordon, like Kyle Chipchura displays “Pack” mentality which Coach Dave Tippett emphasizes, and was very successful during the Yotes run which led them to the Western Conference finals series against the L.A. Kings.
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Gordon was on that team, and blocked 15 shots in 16 games, as well as winning 59.3% of his face-offs.
He’s not going to be on the scorecard much — just 0.16 point a game, but his intangibles are what make him a valuable player, especially on a team like the Arizona Coyotes. Each player knows their role, and if the “Pack” mentality is to work properly, each player must realize that role.
Gordon will also perform penalty killing duties, and that is where his shot blocking and defensive genius become noticeable.
As far as line-mates go, he could be on a checking line with Kyle Chipchura and Steve Downie. Joe Vitale and John Scott can also be replacements on this line.
Gordon accepts his role, and enjoyed playing for Head Coach Dave Tippett.
As he told Dave Vest:
"”I know what (Tippett) expects from me and I think playing two seasons there maybe makes the transition easier than going to a different team and different coaching.” Gordon said."
Gordon is also excited about the good young players on the Arizona Coyotes’ roster. He understands that there is a rebuild going on, but maintains his role on the ream will be the same.
And Boyd Gordon fills that role admirably every time he steps on the ice.
Next: Arizona Coyotes Ownership Needs To Invest More Into Team
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