Uneasy Off-Season Ahead

With all the turmoil off the ice, it will be refreshing to start discussing the on ice activities for the Coyotes. It was a tough start to the summer when the Coyotes had to give up there back stop to the Flyers. Although Bryzgalov did a lot for the organization, the early departure was for the best. This time last year Don Maloney had false hopes of convincing Michalek to stay with the organization. Unfortunately July 1st came and the cold truth hit, the team still has not found a replacement. At least this time Maloney and company have plenty of time before the draft to organize a game plan. This summer will provide some unique flexibility to the roster financially. Bryzgalov would have commanded a top tier contract. Jovanovski will most certainly be headed to another organization in July, leaving the Coyotes with some much needed cap relief.

Before any unrestricted free agents can eat up the extra money available, Maloney must lock up Yandle and Korpikoski first. Once that is complete, it will be very interesting to see what goalie is landed. It appears that Maloney is not limiting his options to just a free agent. In my opinion, the best and first option for Maloney is the trade front. Many teams have backup goalies that are on the cusp of earning a starting opportunity. Look no further than the two teams in the finals. Rask and Schneider are both on the young side, and have proven there worth in an NHL crease. The King’s Bernier has been mentioned, but a trade in division would command a King’s ransom(no pun intended). A trade of any kind will require giving up an asset, but it could be the best set up for the current team and future. A player like Schneider would be a very solid option. The Canucks will be entering the off season with some big decisions to make with free agents. The Coyotes could help provide the Canucks depth in case they lose there free agents.

The Canucks have a packed blue line, and may be forced to let Bieksa or Ehrhoff walk. It is no secret that Ballard has not been a favorite of Vigneault. Ballard has a hefty salary and could be expendable in a trade. Ballard was a fan favorite in Phoenix, and still provides a needed value. Despite limited action this season, Ballard led the Canucks in blocked shots. He has always been a great physical player and great in the locker room. After losing Michalek, the Coyotes have never been able to replace the amount of blocked shots that he provided. This could be a great change of scenery for Ballard, and give the Canucks a valuable cap relief. Adding Ballard into a potential Schneider deal could lessen the return in a trade from the Coyotes.

The Coyotes, under Tippett will always be a defense first system. So with a tight budget, why not focus the money on the back end first. A lot of the young forwards need the opportunity and ice time to grow. In the salary cap era, several veteran forwards are always available for less money in August. The Coyotes could do some damage with the left over forwards just like last year with Belanger.