Arizona Coyotes Top 30 Players – Per Howlin’ Hockey
Howlin’ Hockey takes a look at the 30 best Arizona Coyotes’ players as voted by our writers and editor. We all ranked the 30 top players, and here’s the results.
#30 Keith Ballard (2005-06 to 2007-08) By: Chris Reid
Keith Ballard was an elite defenseman drafted by the Buffalo Sabres in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft. But before he made his NHL debut he was traded twice: once to the Colorado Avalanche, and then to the Phoenix Coyotes. Early comparisons of Ballard projected him to be a puck rushing defenseman in the mold of Phil Housley.
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Ballard played collegiate hockey at the University of Minnesota for three years, and also had time in United States Hockey League.
Ballard’s initial year in Phoenix was considered a success, with 8 g and 39 points while scoring three short-handed goals in 82 games. The next season he missed 13 games to a broken hand, but went on to score 27 points (5 G, 22 A).
Ballard was considered to be a up-and-coming star in the NHL and the Coyotes featured him in marketing and commercials for the team.
The following season, his last in Phoenix, Ballard slumped to 21 points scored (6 G, 15 A) despite playing 82 games. During the 2008 NHL Entry Draft Ballard was dealt to the Florida Panthers, along with Nick Boynton and a draft pick for the failed Olli Joking experiment.
After Ballard’s tenure in Phoenix, he went on to play for the Florida Panthers, Vancouver Canucks and Minnesota Wild. As of yet, Ballard has not yet announced his retirement from the NHL. But, if he were to retire now his numbers would reflect 604 games played, 38 G and 138 A for 175 points. It is unlikely that Ballard will continue, as he was subject to a head injury during his last game with the Wild, and he is currently a free agent.
Next: #29
#29 Brian Boucher (2002-03 to 2005-06) By: Adam Pierce
Brian Boucher has made a name for himself in this league with the Coyotes franchise. Boucher would win the starting spot over Sean Burke in his prime years with the Coyotes. Brian “B00000SH” Boucher suited up for 96 games with the Coyotes and posted a 28-45-18 record. In his time with the Coyotes, Boucher finished with a 2.98 goals against average and a .898 save percentage.
Brian Boucher spent three seasons with the Coyotes, but the 2003-2004 NHL season was one for the record books. Boucher would set modern-day NHL records with five consecutive shutouts and a shutout sequence of 332:01. Those two records will still stand to this day and not be touched. With increased scoring in the NHL, these records may not ever be broken.
Next: #28
#28: Craig Janney (1995-96 to 1996-97) By: William Grigsby
Janney managed 25 goals, 81 assists on the 96-97, 97-98 Phoenix Coyotes team. His 0.73 points per game showed his offensive abilities. He moved from team to team, playing with six different teams in his 16 year career. His career point her game was an impressive 0.99.
His career shooting percentage was 17.6, showing he was an accurate shooter. In the 95-96 season he was third in the NHL with an outstanding 22.0 per cent mark. He was the fifth highest scorer on the 96-97 Coyotes team, which had Jeremy Roenick, and Keith Tkachuk. His 53 points that season and the following season showed he could put the puck in the net.
In the end, Phoenix got tired of Janney, and sent him packing. On June 11, 1998, he got traded to Tampa Bay by for Louie Debrusk and Tampa Bay’s 5th round choice (Jay Leach) in 1998 Entry Draft.
Next: #27
#27 Dallas Drake (1996-97 to 1999-00) By: Chris Reid
Dallas Drake was drafted in the 6th round of the 1989 NHL Entry Draft by the Detroit Red Wings. From Northern Michigan, Drake made the Red Wings roster without playing junior hockey, and recorded 44 points in his rookie season. He was traded in the 1993-1994 season to the Winnipeg Jets, along with Tim Cheveldae for Bob Essence. Because he was part of the then-Jets, Drake made the move to Arizona to be part of the renamed Phoenix Coyotes.
Drake was not an offensive player, but a guy who would do the dirty work. He was known as a consummate professional, hard-worker, and good teammate. His quality third or fourth line play typically made the difference in the momentum or flow of games. He also didn’t hesitate to knock somebody around.
Drake became a fan favorite in Arizona with his gritty play. The local Phoenix band “Stone Bogart” wrote a song about him called “Dallas Drake”, which eventually got picked up and used by ESPN and ABC for their hockey broadcasts
In 2001 Drake moved on to St. Louis, where he played for the Blues for six seasons, and was named Captain of the team from 2005-2007. The Blues placed Drake on waivers in order to buy out his contract, but then he chose to move to back home to the Detroit Red Wings. It was with the Red Wings that Drake finally won his Stanley Cup on their 2008 squad. A la Ray Bourque with the Avalanche, Red Wings Captain Nicklas Lidstrom handed the Stanley Cup to Drake first.
Drake retired in 2008, and still lives in Michigan. He now coaches his kid’s hockey teams.
Next: #26
#26 Mike Johnson (1996-97 to 1999-00) By: Adam Pierce
Mike Johnson comes in at 26th with his style of physical style of play and scoring ability. Johnson was not afraid to drop the gloves in defense for his teammates either. His physicality was an asset the Coyotes franchise for five seasons. Johnson had the drive to score and the passion for the game of hockey.
In his five seasons with the Arizona Coyotes, Johnson accounted for 159 points. The most notable season of his career would be 2002-2003 with the Coyotes. In that season, Mike Johnson tallied 23 goals and 40 assists for 63 points. Unfortunately, the Coyotes only made the playoffs once during his time with the team.
Next: #25
#25 Ilya Bryzgalov (2007-08 to 2010-11) By: William Grigsby
Bryzgalov was claimed off of waivers from the Anaheim Ducks on November 17, 2007. He proceeded to shutout the Los Angeles Kings on the same day, after which the Coyotes signed him to a three-year deal.
Bryzgalov’s best season with the then Phoenix Coyotes was 2009-10 when he won 42 games, lost only 20, with 6 overtime losses. His stellar .920 save percentage, and 2.29 goals against average, while shutting out his opponents eight times, earned him a second place Vezina Trophy finish. He lost out to Ryan Miller of Buffalo.
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The following season his numbers were still impressive enough to gather 36 wins, 20 losses, 10 overtime losses. He nearly matched his golden numbers from the previous season with a .921 save percentage, and a 2.48 goals against average. He added seven more shutouts for good measure.
Apparently that wasn’t good enough for the Coyotes, who struggled with ownership issues, and rumors of the franchise moving… you know normal stuff we hear about them consistently. When negotiations broke down, the team traded his rights on June 6, 2011 to Philadelphia for a third round draft choice, and forward Matt Clackson. Bryzgalov then signed a $51 million deal for nine years.
His success didn’t last long, as on June 25, 2013, Bryzgalov was informed that the Flyers would use a compliance buyout to buy the remaining seven years on his contract. He struggled playing in the AHL, and was sent to the Oilers, the Wild, and back to the Ducks, while only playing in 44 games from 2013 through he 2014-15 season.
Next: #24
#24 Max Domi (2015-16) By: Chris Reid
One-half of the Killer D’s, Max Domi breaks into our Top 30 list. Pretty heady space for a rookie only 28 games into his NHL career.
Drafted in the first round of the 2013 NHL Entry Draft by the Arizona Coyotes, while playing his junior hockey in London of the OHL, Domi has hit the NHL like a house on fire. After 28 games played, Domi has tallied 23 points (10 G, 13 A), and has made the Coyotes “must-watch hockey”. Most of the plays Domi has made are of the spectacular variety, but are so consistent with the deep skill set of the player.
The son of long-time NHL player Tie Domi, Max has a set of offensive skills that his father sorely lacked. The one thing that has joined them, outside of genetics, is the hard-nosed play, and the propensity to take it right to their opponent.
What is more remarkable about the success to date for Max Domi, is that he does this while managing his condition as a Type 1 diabetic. As such, Domi must remain vigilant in managing his diet, his glucose levels, which comes with constant monitoring.
Domi has been using his platform as a professional athlete to reach out to others in the community to raise diabetes awareness and to help raise money for research.
It is great to see such a good guy getting the accolades and success that he deserves. I’d keep an eye on this young prospect, he’s going places.
Next: #23
#23 Oleg Tvardovsky (1996-97 to 1998-99) By: Adam Pierce
Oleg Tverdovsky was an All-Star for the Coyotes back in 1996. In 82 games, he was responsible for 55 points for the inaugural Coyotes squad. He remained top five in the entire NHL in scoring by a defenseman throughout his first season with the Coyotes franchise. He was known as a player who would check his opponent at any chance he had.
Tverdovsky spent three seasons with the Arizona Coyotes franchise before being traded to the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim. In his three seasons, Tverdovsky contributed 99 points to the squad. He was known for his stick-handling and ability to join the rush as a defenseman.
Next: #22
#22 Derek Morris (2003-04 to 2008-09, 2009/10 to 2013/14 By: William Grigsby
Mar 24, 2014; New York, NY, USA; Phoenix Coyotes defenseman Derek Morris (53) controls the puck in front of New York Rangers right wing Mats Zuccarello (36) during the second period of a game at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
“DeeMo”, was a fan favorite who performed for 10 season for the Coyotes on the blue line. He was a solid performer who worked the blue line on the power play because of his booming slap shot.
Morris moved around a bit. He was traded to Phoenix by Colorado with Keith Ballard for Ossis Vaananen, Chris Gratton and Phoenix’s 2nd round choice (Paul Stastny) in 2005 Entry Draft, March 9, 2004. Traded to NY Rangers by Phoenix for Dmitri Kalinin, Nigel Dawes and Petr Prucha, March 4, 2009. Signed as a free agent by Boston, July 25, 2009. Traded to Phoenix by Boston for Phoenix’s 3rd round choice (Anthony Camera) in 2011 Entry Draft, March 3, 2010.
Actually, Morris did not have terrific stats while with the Coyotes, but he loved playing here in Phoenix, and was traded here, and also signed as a free agent to play in the desert. With only a 0.28 point per game statistic to his credit, he was more of a stay-at-home D-man. He did manage to be on the ice when the Coyotes scored on the power play for 95 goals. The problem was he was also on the ice when the opposing team scored 576 goals. His +/- number was a less than admirable -53 during his years in Phoenix. He was fairly physical in his play with 565 hits, and 626 blocked shots.
Morris, never did get signed by another NHL team after the Coyotes failed to offer him a contract after the 2013-14 season. at age 37, it was doubtful another team would take a chance on him. He was a marginal, but reliable defenseman, and it’s not easy to find right-handed blue-liners, so he was a valuable cog in the Coyotes’ wheel.
Next: #21
#21 Antionne Vermette (2011-12 to 2014-15), (2015-16) By: Chris Reid
Vermy was originally drafted in the second round by the Ottawa Senators in the 2000 NHL Entry Draft. He joined the Coyotes in 2011, after playing six years in Ottawa and Columbus. Vermette has been invaluable for the Coyotes as a premier face-off man and dedicated two-way player. Offensively, he is not as consistent as the team would like, but his assets outweigh the detriments.
Last season Vermette, a then-pending free agent, was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks for Kris Dahlbeck and a 2015 First Round draft pick, which became Nick Merkley. Chicago used Vermette sparingly as a role player with diminished ice time. Once reinstated to a larger role Vermette responded, and finished the Stanley Cup Playoffs recording 4 goals and three assists. Three out of his four goals during the playoffs were game-winners.
Since winning the Stanley Cup with the Blackhawks, Vermette returned to Arizona on a two-year free agent contract. Now back in Arizona, Vermette has been battling injuries, and has been shuffled in-and-out of the line-ups. When he is in the line-up, Vermette has been a steady contributor with 8 points through 22 games (3 G, 5 A). Vermette is continuing his steady face-off play, and is a reliable 3rd or 4th liner.
Next: #20
#20 Paul Mara (2000-01 to 2005-06) By: Adam Pierce
Paul Mara spent a majority of his career in the desert with the Arizona Coyotes. Mara was recognized as the Coyotes “Number 23” before the team drafted the one and only, Oliver Ekman-Larsson. Mara was a big man at six feet, four inches and provided size for the Coyotes between 2000 and 2006.
Mara was known for his jaw dropping checks and physicality. He established himself as a key member of both the power-play and the penalty kill. His best season would come in 2005, as Mara scored 15 goals and 32 assists for a total of 47 points. During his career with the Arizona Coyotes franchise, Paul Mara finished with 142 points in 323 games.
Next: #19
#19 Nikolai Khabibulin (1996-97 to 1998-99) By: William Grigsby
Khabibulin did not get much offensive support from the team the three years he played in Phoenix. The team only average 2.72 goals a game over the three-year period, and relied on solid defense to acquire wins.
While his record of 92 wins, 84 losses, 23 ties/overtime games was fairly meager, he did manage to only allow 184 goals in his second season with the Coyotes. That total led the NHL, but again the lack of offensive support was the reason the Coyotes only won 35 games, somehow still managing to make the playoffs, with a mere 82 points.
They lost to the nemesis Red Wings four games to two, with Khabibulin not putting up great numbers at all. His .877 save percentage was dismal, as was his 4.22 goals against average.
His best season was his third, where he had a 32-23-7 record with a GAA of 2.13 and a SV% of .923. He had eight shutouts to add to his numbers. Yet, he could only win 32 games, since the 1998-99 team only managed to score an average of 2.50 goals a game. Even so, this team was also able to qualify for the post season, with a total of 90 points. They went on to lose to the St. Louis Blues, four games to three.
Khabibulin did all he could with a SV% of .924, and a GAA of 2.41. Again, scoring just 16 goals in seven games (2.29 per game) was the team’s downfall. Khabibulin was traded to Tampa Bay after being involved in a bitter contract dispute. He held out the entire season, playing for the IHL Long Beach Ice Dogs.
Next: #18
#18 Martin Hanzal (2007-08 to present) By: Chris Reid
The big (6’ 6″, 230lb) checking Czech was drafted by the Coyotes in the first round of the 2005 NHL Entry Draft. Hanzal is a player blessed with great size and soft hands but has been plagued with an injury bug throughout his career. Back issues torpedoed his season last year, but thankfully Hanzal has been relatively injury free this year.
Hanzal has been teamed with anchoring the young and exciting rookies on the 2015 edition of the Arizona Coyotes. As a result, he is in the Top 30 for assists to this point, with 15. The different pairings with Max Domi, Anthony Duclair, Jordan Martinook, and Tobias Rieder have enabled Hanzal to be the steadying veteran influence for the youngsters. His soft hands not only help set up the goals for his teammates, but Hanzal can score as well — totaling 20 points in 25 games this season. Hanzal is a vastly underrated player and, when healthy, has a HUGE (pardon the pun…) impact upon the fortunes of the Coyotes.
Not only can Hanzal use his stick to help teammates score, but he can be vicious with cross-check, as well as evidenced by taking out three Vancouver Canucks in less than five minutes!
Next: #17
#17 Mike Comrie (2003-04 to 2006-07) By: Adam Pierce
Mike Comrie had one explosive season that sky-rocketed him to our list at number 17. Comrie only played three seasons with the Arizona Coyotes franchise with his highlight year coming in 2005. For the 2005-2006 NHL season, Mike Comrie scored 30 goals and 30 assists for 60 points with the Coyotes.
In his 132 games with the Arizona Coyotes, Mike Comrie notched 45 goals and 50 assists for 95 points. Comrie was noted as a player who “was deceptive, with above-average hockey sense and a feisty side. [Comrie] was also able to make heads-up passes and could score goals in bunches. Played all three forward positions and was even willing to fight if he had to.” Comrie used his edgy style of play to good use during his time with the Coyotes.
Next: #16
#16 Mike Smith (2007-08 to present) By: William Grigsby
Nov 19, 2015; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Arizona Coyotes goalie Mike Smith (41) makes a save against the Montreal Canadiens during the first period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Jean-Yves Ahern-USA TODAY Sports
In his fifth season as the Arizona Coyotes net-minder, Mike Smith has seen the spectrum of success, and failure. The main question in many Coyotes’ fans thought process is — which Mike Smith will show up tonight? The one who earned a huge $5.667 million contract after playing like an All-Star in 2011-12, or the one who lost 42 games last season?
For the 2015-16 Coyotes to succeed this season they NEED Mike Smith…the one who was rewarded with a contract which, quite frankly he has yet to earn. Even this season he is up and down like the stock market. After starting the season with three incredible wins, he has faltered a bit since then. Still, he owns a 10-9-1 record, with a save percentage of .901, and a GAA of 3.06. It certainly helps that this years’ version of the Desert Dogs can score, with an average of 2.74 goals a game.
The other factor has been the improved defense. Klas Dahlbeck is getting better every game under the influence of Zbynek Michalek. Adding Nicklas Grossmann has also given the blue line the kind of protection that Smith needs to keep pucks from going behind him.
Smith has every reason to get better this season, and if he doesn’t there’s not much the team can do with him. When he gets yanked after allowing two shots out of three going by him for goals — the skeptics will be wondering what will the team do now? He certainly is not getting any younger, so if he makes it to the end of his contract, that will be a plus for the Arizona Coyotes. Otherwise, they are kinda stuck with him. No team will take him in a trade, if he approved it — and eating another huge contract like the Ribeiro fiasco just isn’t good business sense.
It’s now up to Smitty to put up or shut up. I just wish he would stay in his net, and allow the defense to move the puck.
Next: #15
#15 Mikkel Boedker (2007-08 to present) By: Chris Reid
Nov 12, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Coyotes left wing Mikkel Boedker (89) shoots the puck during the second period against the Edmonton Oilers at Gila River Arena. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
The Great Dane was a first round pick of the Coyotes in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft. Boedker is the highest ever drafted Danish player. The Coyotes are the only NHL team that he has played for.
In his eight NHL seasons to date, Boedker has 194 points in 410 games. That number would be higher though if the Coyotes played the Ottawa Senators every night. On November 28, 2015, for the second time in two games this season against the Senators, Mikkel Boedker scored a hat trick. The first hat trick came in Ottawa on October 24, 2015.
Boedker has always had talent, and has gotten better in becoming more consistent in his play. That is the kind of growth necessary as a professional. Hopefully, he will get more opportunities like he did in the Western Conference Finals run where Boedker scored eight points in 15 games. Additionally Boedker had two game-winning overtime goals versus the Blackhawks.
Boedker has struggled with injuries during his career. He missed 37 games last year with ailments, but luckily he has been mostly healthy this season. Hopefully this streak of good play and good health will continue as he is coming to the end of his contract with the Coyotes. Boedker signed a one-year deal last summer, as uncertainty simmered about the Coyotes home during the off-season. It continues to seem that the Coyotes home issues will continue to bother them until a final resolution is reached. The likelihood of the Coyotes moving out of Arizona is slim, and so it is likely that Boedker will sign long-term perhaps as early as January ‘16.
Next: #14
#14 Zbynek Michalek (2005-06 to 2009-10, 2012-13 to 2014-15, 2015 to present) By: Adam Pierce
Nov 11, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Coyotes defenseman Zbynek Michalek (4) against the Dallas Stars at Gila River Arena. The Stars defeated the Coyotes 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Zbynek Michalek is an Arizona Coyotes fan favorite and comes in as the 14th best player of the franchise. Michalek is currently in his third stint with the Arizona Coyotes, as his first two occurred from 2005-2010 and 2012-2015. Michalek is known for his hard physical play and his ability to clog up both passing and shooting lanes. As one of the league’s best shot-blocking defensive defenseman, Zbynek Michalek has been a tremendous asset in front of his goaltenders.
In his time with the Arizona Coyotes, Michalek has contributed 136 points in 564 games. In fact, Michalek ranks eighth all-time in the franchise for games played with his 564. Zbynek will pass former player Randy Carlyle for seventh all-time in just five more games. Erik Piri of Elite Prospects describes him as “a big defenseman who is excellent defensively. Blocks a lot of shots and can play a shutdown role for his team. A decent powerplay guy, too, thanks to a hard shot.”
Next: #13
#13 Ladislav Nagy (2000-01 to 2006-07) By: William Grigsby
On March 13, 2001, the St. Louis Blues traded Ladislav Nagy to the Phoenix Coyotes — along with Michal Handzus –for Keith Tkachuk, the rights to Jeff Taffe, and a 1st round draft choice.
Nagy only played six games with Phoenix during the ’00-’01 season — but he made his presence known the following campaign, when he registered 42 points over the course of his 74 game season. As a 22-year-old, Nagy was good for 23 goals in his second full NHL season — but even better, he contributed five power play goals and five game winners that first full season.
Despite his good numbers, though, Nagy wasn’t exactly what the Coyotes fans were looking for — at least, initially.
When you trade a franchise cornerstone player like Tkachuk, you want something of equal value in return — and although the franchise had swapped a player in his decline for one on his way up, many fans believe that this had been a salary cutting type of trade for a franchise whose books were cooked.
Nagy was a good player for the Yotes — but with the way the ownership merry-go-round was going, they had to make financial moves to survive as a business. The unstable ownership made the team one that was driven by financial decisions; before fans knew what was happening, deals like this one become more and more commonplace. To the naked eye, Tkachuk’s relocation to St. Louis was a business-first call; whether the intent had been to shed salary or not, it didn’t go over well with many in the crowd.
Next: #12
#12 Daniel Briere (1997-98 to 2002-03) By: Chris Reid
The mighty-mite Centerman that is Danny Briere was originally drafted in the first round of the 1996 NHL Entry Draft by the Coyotes. His smallish stature and baby-face looks made people wonder if he was actually an underage child playing in the NHL. This parody video highlights that perception.
What the video does not show is the prodigious talent contained within. Briers went on to have an illustrious 18 year NHL career with 5 NHL teams including Phoenix, Buffalo, Philadelphia, Montreal, and Colorado. He retired with 696 points over 973 games.
It became apparent that Briere’s size would be an issue for the Coyotes. Opposing teams would take advantage of his smaller size. In fact, in 2001 Briere began to train with Canadian World’s Strongest Man competitor Hugo Girard to be better able to withstand the punishment he was taking. The workouts appeared to be beneficial as Briere earned a full-time roster spot with the Coyotes that year and in 2001-2002 season tallied 60 points (32 G, 28 A).
The Coyotes made a decision, however, to move on and on March 10, 2003 Briere was traded along with a draft pick for the much bigger Center Chris Gratton. The Sabres got the far better end of the deal for in Buffalo Daniel Briere blossomed. Over a four season span for the Sabres, Briere tallied 242 points with 99 G and 143 A. In 2004 Briere was named Captain of the Sabres. This was a testament to the improvement and leadership provided by him.
After Buffalo, Briere went on to star for the Philadelphia Flyers, Montreal Canadiens and Colorado Avalanche before retiring.
Next: #11
#11 Sean Burke (1999-00 to 2003-04) By: Adam Pierce
When you think of Arizona Coyotes goaltending, the name “Sean Burke” generally comes to mind. In a rankings post Howlin’ Hockey did four months ago, Burke came in as ranked the second best goaltender of the franchise. Sean Burke narrowly misses the top spot due to injuries and other competition.
With that being said, Burke has made a lasting impact with the team on and off the ice as a phenomenal player and an excellent coach. Burke played five seasons with the Phoenix Coyotes with his third one being his best. In 2001 Sean Burke finished the year with a 33-21-6 record, a 2.29 GAA, and a .920 SV%. He was a finalist for the Vezina Trophy and Hart Trophy that season as well.
Next: #10
#10 Ed Jovanovski (2006-07 to 2010-11) By: William Grigsby
At 6’ 3”, 220 pounds “Jovo” was accustomed to throwing his weight around on the blue line. He accumulated 1.01 minutes in the penalty box a game, but also provided some offensive power with 0.49 points a game. He signed as a free agent with the Coyotes on July 1, 2006, citing his decision was made so he could play for Head Coach Wayne Gretzky.
One way to use his size, was to plant him in front of the net to screen the opposing goalie. It was quite an effective tactic, and he could use his large frame to position himself for a possible rebound. The only problem was — his less than stellar +/- number of -42. Jovo got booed often times for making some bone-head plays, but he was a tough competitor who came to play.
After his Coyote playing days were done, he signed with the Florida Panthers in July of 2011. He missed most of the 2013-14 season due to a knee injury, playing only 37 games. He was placed on unconditional waivers for the purpose of a buyout of his contract, and did not play last season. At 39, he has pretty much played his last NHL game.
The highlight of Jovanovski’s career came when he recorded his first career NHL hat-trick in a 4–3 win against the Nashville Predators on November 3, 2010. He scored all three goals against goaltender Pekka Rinne, becoming the first Coyotes defenseman to score a hat-trick in team history. On December 26, he became the 256th player in NHL history to play 1,000 career games, reaching the feat against the Dallas Stars.
Next: #9
#9 Ray Whitney (2010-11 to 2011-12) By: Chris Reid
Despite only playing just two seasons in the brick red and sand of the Coyotes the Wizard places on the Top 30 list. Originally drafted by San Jose in the 1991 NHL Entry Draft Ray Whitney carved out an exceptional NHL career. Whitney retired as one of the top point producers in the history of the NHL, currently at number 79.
During the Wizard’s two years in Phoenix, Whitney was productive with 41 G, 93 A and 134 points over 157 games. Whitney helped bring the Coyotes to the Stanley Cup Playoffs in both of his seasons in the Valley. He was instrumental in the Dogs Western Conference Finals run in 2011-2012. The overtime game winning goal against the Nashville Predators is classic Wizard:
Later, Whitney had two more years in the League before retiring with the Dallas Stars following the 2013-2014 season. His 24 year NHL career included stops in San Jose, Carolina, Florida, Columbus, Dallas, Edmonton, Detroit, and Phoenix. He retired with 1,064 points in 1,330 regular season NHL games.
Whitney’s underrated play was eclipsed only by his reputation as a photo-bomber and joker in an effort to make sure that he and his teammates were loose and had fun.
Next: #8
#8 Daymond Langkow (2001-02 to 2002-03, 2011-12) By: Adam Pierce
Daymond Langkow comes in at number 8 on our rankings and for valued reasons. He had two stints with the Arizona Coyotes in his career ranging from 2001-2004 and 2011-2012. Langkow was a core member of the Cinderella playoff run of 2012.
In his career with the Arizona Coyotes, Langkow accounted for 79 goals and 117 assists (196 total points). Daymond Langkow made an immediate impact with the Coyotes, scoring a hat-trick in his first game with the franchise. Langkow was known for his excellent fore-checking ability and his intense board play.
Next: #7
#7 Radim Vrbata (2007-08 to 2013-14) By: William Grigsby
Sep 25, 2013; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Phoenix Coyotes right wing Radim Vrbata (17) skates with the puck against the Calgary Flames during the second period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Phoenix Coyotes won 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports
Most of you who are Coyotes fans know the story of Vrbata’s departure. GMDM (Don Maloney) decided that Vrbata’s demand to add a no-trade clause to a potential contract with the Coyotes was too much for him to swallow. So, he let Vrbata seek employment elsewhere, which was against what Radim wanted. To the contrary, he and his family quite liked the friendly confines of Gila River Arena, and for that matter the Valley of the Sun. But, he is a professional athlete, and he realizes that it is a BUSINESS.
With that in mind, On July 2, 2014, Vrbata left the Coyotes and signed as a free agent to a two-year $10 million contract with the Vancouver Canucks. Vrbata stated the opportunity to play with the Sedin twins was a large factor in his decision. But, like any NHL player money was a factor as well. The Coyotes were only offering a four year contract for less, with a limited no-movement clause.
In the end the opportunity to play alongside the Sedin twins was too much to pass up. Vrbata has had the most success in his career while playing alongside other European style players. Set-up man Ray Whitney, who had a strong feel for that style of play, helped spur Vrbata to career-highs in goals (35) and points (62) in 2011-12. He’d been lacking that type of wingman with the Coyotes for the past two seasons.
Vrbata, a sharpshooter, had 45 power play goals, and 52 power play assists, so his offense was sorely missed by allowing him to sign with Vancouver.
Next: #6
#6 Keith Yandle (2006-07 to 2014-15) By: Chris Reid
Keith Yandle was selected in the 4th round of the 2005 NHL Entry Draft by the Coyotes. The left-handed defenseman played his minor hockey in the QMJHL for the Moncton Wildcats. Yandle led the Wildcats to the QMJHL championship and picked up awards for best defenseman and defensive player-of-the-year in 2005-2006.
After that, and spending bits of two season with the AHL San Antonio Rampage, Yandle was called up for good with parent Coyotes organization. Eventually Yandle compiled a 400 consecutive game streak with the Coyotes trailing only Dale Hawerchuck.
The two-time All Star played a total of seven seasons for the Coyotes while becoming one of the elite defensemen in the NHL. Yands was traded to the New York Rangers on March 1, 2015 in the deal that brought hot-shot rookie Anthony Duclair to the desert.
Next: #5
#5 Teppo Numminen (1996-97 to 2002-03) By: Adam Pierce
Teppo Numminen was a member of a solid defensive core for the Phoenix Coyotes from 1996 to 2003. He was named the second captain of the Coyotes franchise after Keith Tkachuk during those years as well.
Numminen will go down as one of the best defenseman in Coyotes history with Oliver Ekman-Larsson potentially nipping at his heels for that title. In 551 total games played with the Coyotes, number 27 finished with a franchise leading +/- of +68. Numminen tallied 269 points for the Coyotes during his time in Phoenix.
#4 Oliver Ekman-Larsson (2010-11 to present) By: William Grigsby
Nov 19, 2015; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens right wing Devante Smith-Pelly (21) shoots the puck against Arizona Coyotes goalie Mike Smith (41) as defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) looks on during the second period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Jean-Yves Ahern-USA TODAY Sports
OEL has quickly become an All-Star defenseman, and a leader on his team. When current captain, Shane Doan decides to call it quits, Oliver will fill that role nicely. To display his clutch playing ability, 40 of his career 60 goals with the Arizona Coyotes have been either a game winning goal, or a power play goal. That’s a stunning 66 percent of his scoring, and he’s not slowing down this season either, with three game winning goals already to his credit.
The team has him paired mostly with Michael Stone, and just playing alongside Ekman-Larsson has elevated Stone’s game to a new level this season. He has six goals and 12 assists in 28 games so far. There has been rumors that the Coyotes have been seeking another right-handed shooting defenseman to pair up with OEL, but for now it doesn’t seem to be happening.
If Oliver Ekman-Larsson can continue his outstanding play, there is no limit to what he can accomplish. He has shown he is a premier player in the NHL, and more and more honors will be bestowed upon him as his career progresses.
To say that the Arizona Coyotes are blessed to have him on their team is an understatement. In our ranking to have him be the fourth player on the list, with the only other active player surpassing him being Shane Doan, says a lot about his potential.
Look for Oliver to have another exceptional season, and help his team in their quest to make the playoffs for the first time in four seasons. It certainly has helped him to have young prospects Max Domi, and Anthony Duclair step up and contribute some offensive support this season.
Next: #3
#3 Jeremy Roenick (1996-97 to 2000-01, 2006-07) By: Chris Reid
Jeremy Roenick was one of the main focal points of the original Phoenix Coyotes teams. Originally drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 1988 NHL Entry Draft, J.R. was brought to Phoenix to help sell NHL hockey in the desert. Roe nick was traded to the Coyotes for Alexei Zhamnov, Craig Mills, and a first round draft pick, and immediately gave the Coyotes a jolt of white-hot star power.
Assuming the number 97, and being the first player in NHL history to do so, Roenick proceeded to have very good years for the Coyotes. In his first season with the new Coyotes, Roenick scored 29 goals and 69 points. He followed that up in 1997–98, where he finished second in scoring with 56 points for Phoenix. In 1998–99, JR led the Coyotes with 72 points and played in his fifth All-Star Game overall. For the 1999–2000 season Roenick again led the Coyotes in scoring with 34 goals and 44 assists for 78 points. He also played in his sixth All-Star Game. In 2000–01, his last in his first stint in Arizona, Roenick led the Coyotes with 30 goals and 76 points.
Roenick left the Coyotes to sign with Philadelphia as a free-agent in 2001 where he continued to play at a high level. JR returned to Phoenix in 2006 as a free-agent signing from Los Angeles. But, in what could be termed as a disastrous year both professionally and personally, Roenick left Arizona to sign with San Jose.
Roenick retired from the NHL in 2009.
Next: #2
#2 Keith Tkachuk (1996-97 to 2000-01) By: Chris Reid
Keith Tkachuk is one of the biggest names to have ever worn a Coyotes sweater. Tkachuk was drafted 19th overall by the Winnipeg Jets back in 1990. Tkachuk is arguably one of the best scorers in franchise history with a total of 334 points in 332 career games since 1996.
Tkachuk’s play earned him high honors as the inaugural captain for the Coyotes team. His leadership style has influenced the entire franchise moving forward. Elite Prospects describes Tkachuk as “a big body with a load of toughness and scoring ability, Tkachuk was a protypical power forward. He had a great shot that he didn’t mind firing and loved to play a physical game.”
Keith Tkachuk is also the only Coyotes player to be featured on an American video game cover with his appearance on the copy of NHL Breakaway 98. Keith Tkachuk was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame as part of the 2011 class. He was inducted into the Coyotes Ring of Honor that same year too.
Next: #1
#1 Shane Doan (1995-96 to present) By: William Grigsby
Mar 16, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Arizona Coyotes right wing Shane Doan (19) reacts against the Los Angeles Kings at Staples Center. The Kings defeated the Coyotes 1-0. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
The best player on the Arizona Coyotes should not be a mystery to most Coyotes fans.
Who else could it be? He’s been with the team since it’s inception in 1996, and has been the captain of the team since the 2003-04 season. He encompasses the very soul of the team, on the ice and off. When someone asks about the Arizona Coyotes, they know about them BECAUSE of Shane Doan.
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Although he turned 39 the day after the season opener, Doan claims he is not considering retirement until he knows he can’t contribute anymore. And with six goals, four assists in 20 games this season thus far, he is far from slowing down. His career point per game is 0.64, so he is not far off from that total. What might hit him more than his ability to still compete, is his health. He’s been pretty healthy his entire career spanning 1414 games so far, only missing around 130 games over his that time period.
Doan’s role this season may have been in suspect, since the team is going through a youth movement. Instead, the coaching staff and management feel Shane’s vast experience playing as long as he has, will help the young prospects like Max Domi, Anthony Duclair, and Klas Dahlbeck progress in their careers. They just don’t come much better than Captain Coyote, and when he does hang up his skates you can be assured he will have a job with the organization. His vast knowledge and experience will assist the team in many facets, and he has dedicated 20 years with one organization… that alone should be worth something — can you spell Hockey Hall-of Fame?