Arizona Coyotes Questions For Upcoming Season

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Will Tobias Rieder avoid a sophomore slump?

Apr 7, 2015; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Arizona Coyotes center Tobias Rieder (8) skates against the Calgary Flames during the third period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Calgary Flames won 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

Tobias Rieder was one of the many call-ups early on in the season last year. Unlike many of his rookie comrades, Rieder was able to solidify a spot on the starting roster of the Arizona Coyotes. After being called up on November 2nd and scoring in his NHL debut, Rieder proved to be a vital part of the Arizona Coyotes rebuild. The only question that remains for this youngster is whether or not he can improve on his efforts from his inaugural season.

Many newcomers in the league are prone to the sophomore slump in their second year of play. The sophomore slump occurs when a player has a noteworthy rookie season, but a forgettable second season to follow. Tobias Rieder’s rookie season may not be considered “noteworthy”, but it can easily be seen as highly productive in laying the foundation down for the future. The 22 year old from Landshut, Germany was credited with 13 goals and 8 assists in 72 total games.

Tobias Rieder will definitely improve on those numbers this coming season. With silky puck handling abilities and versatile speed, Rieder will be an impact player for the Arizona Coyotes. Rieder will be a quiet 35-40 point scorer in his second season of play, as I forecast at least twenty goals coming from this kid. The dreaded sophomore slump will not have it’s effects on number eight.

Answer: Yes

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