Arizona Coyotes 2016-17 Unrestricted Free Agents List Long

Oct 30, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Coyotes right wing Shane Doan (19) looks on during the face off during the third period against the Vancouver Canucks at Gila River Arena. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

#1  Shane Doan

We all know that Captain Coyote, Shane Doan is nearing the end of his career. And, he was the first to express that when he feels he is not contributing anymore, he will know it’s time to hang up his skates. He missed nine games due to a nagging lower-body injury, and he knows as he ages recovering from injuries will not be like when he was in his twenties.

Yet, he has also stated that he doesn’t want to go to another team, even if it means he may have a chance to hoist the CUP. He defines loyalty. His dedication is unfailing.

His current salary against the cap is $4.55 million. Although usually a slow starter, this season he has six goals, five assists in 22 games. The injury did slow down his momentum, and in the game last night against the Blue Jackets he uncharacteristically turned over the puck which led to a Columbus goal by their captain, Nick Foligno. It was a painful play for Doaner. He takes it personally, and yet he fights on for a better outcome.

It is still up in the air what Doan will do about next season. Does he play? Does he retire? If he does decide to play, will it be with the Arizona Coyotes, or will he abandon ship for a chance to win it all? All tough questions to answer, and if I had a crystal ball (they ran out at Walmart…) I could tell you.

He will probably wait until near the end of this season to make his decision. In one respect, he would be missed immensely, but then if he does decide to play elsewhere wherever he goes that team will get one heck of a hockey player.

Prediction: Doan will retire, and be given a front office position… say assistant to the GM?

Next: UFA #2