Wayne Gretzky is apparently fed up with mediocrity in Phoenix. After a number of subpar seasons in Arizona, the Coyotes finally made some moves which may have some positive results. On draft day, Phoenix made a number of moves to pick up some offensive performers who should provide an immediate impact in the talented Pacific Division.
Star forward Olli Jokinen has labored in futility, wasting his talents and 30 goal, 70+ point seasons in Florida. The Coyotes dealt two middle-tier defensemen and a second round pick to Florida to pick up the Finnish star. Phoenix then turned around and traded up to draft star Russian rookie Viktor Tikhonov. After being named the best forward at last year’s World Junior Championships, Tikhonov will be expected to be an immediate contributor. Jokinen and Tikhonov should be more than enough to offset the loss of Radim Vrbata’s services.
David Hale, Matt Jones and Kurt Sauer were added to provide some young talent on the blueline, and banger Todd Fedoruk was signed to add a physical presence and veteran experience up front. With perennial powerhouses San Jose and Dallas geared up for yet another run at the Cup, and 2007 Cup Champion Anaheim looking to return to the playoffs, the Pacific Division is more than stacked. But with the additions of Jokinen and Tikhonov, Shane Doan and company may finally have a shot at competing.
