Arizona Coyotes Throwback Thursday

It’s throwback Thursday and this week we take a look at former Arizona Coyotes defenseman Keith Yandle. The timing for Yandle being featured is perfect as he recently (9/20/2022) announced his retirement from the NHL. Yandle is the NHL’s ironman as he owns the record for most consecutive games played in NHL History with 989.

He should be remembered as one of the greatest players in Coyotes history. Seeing as he literally just retired, he is not an NHL throwback, however,  given the fact that it has been 8 years since we last saw Yandle in a Coyotes sweater, he is a Coyotes throwback and worthy of praise.

One of the last remaining players in the league originally drafted by the Phoenix Coyotes (not the players after the renaming ‘Arizona’), Yandle was selected 105th overall (14th pick in the 4th round) in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft. The Boston, Massachusetts native’s career lasted 16 seasons and featured time with the Phoenix Coyotes, Florida Panthers, New York Rangers, and Philadelphia Flyers.

Looking back at his time with the Coyotes organization, Yandle was one of the purest puck moving defensemen that the team has ever rostered. A part of a series of all-star blue liners, Yandle led the team in scoring twice (2012-13, and 2013-14 seasons), and recorded double digit goals through 2009-2013. Yandle registered 40 or more points five times during his time with the team. All amazing feats considering the team that he played for.

Yandle also was an alternate captain and team leader.

After moving on from the Coyotes Yandle was a model of consistency never missing a game and scoring 40 or more points in five straight seasons. In 2018 Yandle scored 62 points, a career high for him.

Last season Yandle became the NHL’s iron man for most consecutive games played with 989. A record that should stand strong (Stay away Phil Kessel).

Now retired, what does the future hold for Yandle? Nothing.

According to Yandle himself during an appearance on an episode of the Spittin’ Chiclets podcast.  “I’m retiring from the game of hockey….Taking my talents to South Beach and doing nothing,”

A popular player and vocal person, Yandle is an obvious choice for a career in broadcasting. His personality and outspoken nature make him a perfect choice for any NHL production. Tell me that he and Tyson Nash wouldn’t be fun to watch. Throw in Bissonnette and my goodness.

Enjoy retirement. You earned it.

Happy Howlin’