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Arizona Coyotes: Predicting 2016-17 Lineup (Defensemen)

By Andrew Walters

Feb 15, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Coyotes defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) shoots and scores a goal in the second period against the Montreal Canadiens at Gila River Arena. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 15, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Coyotes defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson (23) shoots and scores a goal in the second period against the Montreal Canadiens at Gila River Arena. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports /
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Arizona Coyotes
Oct 3, 2016; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Canucks forward Anton Rodin (17) and Arizona Coyotes defenseman Alex Goligoski (33) battle for the puck during a preseason hockey game at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports /

Alex Goligoski and Michael Stone

Alex Goligoski was undoubtedly the marquee signing of the offseason for the Coyotes.

After acquiring his rights from the Dallas Stars for a 5th round pick, Chayka and Tippett were able to sell Goligoski on the organization and its future.

His presence on the blue line will be stabilizing for the Coyotes.

A capable veteran, he will be a good voice and mentor in the locker room. He is also an excellent puck mover, so he should fit in well with the speedy youngsters.

Essentially, he is a replacement for Nicklas Grossmann, and by replacement I mean massive upgrade.

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Michael Stone is coming off a career season with 36 points (6G, 36A) and should fit in well with Goligoski. He moves the puck well and brings some physicality to the pairing.

Stone has spent the offseason recovering from surgery. He tore his ACL and MCL in a game against the Flyers near the end of last year, so he may not be ready to start the season.

As a result, expect to see Luke Schenn or Zbynek Michalek fill this spot to start the season until Stone is healthy.

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