Looking Ahead

Overall the Coyotes had a great season; I’m not going to lie and say the ending wasn’t disappointing but I’m not going to dwell on it either.

Looking back, this is the best season since I moved to Phoenix in 2006 (prior to that I was a Flyers fan, in case you were unaware). My number one best moment is Shane Doan’s hat trick. I’m pretty sure when I’m 64 I will still be able to tell you where I was and what my exact reaction was. I think the second best moment was leaving work at lunch and going to the airport to greet the boys after finishing off Chicago. It was a bit warm out but the amount of fans and the reactions of both fans and players will be etched in my mind for quite some time.

This was very much the season of firsts for this team and I am glad I was there to witness them. They were the Pacific Division Champs for the first time in franchise history. They made it out of the first round for the first time in Phoenix history. The made it out of round two. They were so close to the finals and the cup we could all taste it. All of this from a team “experts” claimed were going to be horrible, last in the league. All of this through constant relocation rumors and without a real owner. The Coyotes really defined “hockey the hard way” this season.

Now is the time to look to the future. A future that will continue in Glendale for many years to come. Monday Glendale released the deal between the city and Jamison. It pretty much says that the Coyotes will be here for good; the cost of moving the team will be quite high. Overall it looks like a pretty good deal. The vote is set for Friday morning. I should plan a Friday night celebration! The last 3 years of hell are almost over! Ok, hell is kind of a strong word but you know what I mean.

After the Glendale vote, we just have the NHL board of governors. That shouldn’t be too hard. Then we will have another celebration. Maybe both of these celebrations should take place in Westgate. That way I can look over and see the beautiful arena where I will be going for many years to come.

I also take it as good news for draft and free agency that Maloney has been speaking with Jamison. There are a few UFAs that we need to get signed before 7/1. Like Shane Doan. Although I don’t see him going anywhere else. This is is home. I hope to get some insight on draft and free agency soon. With the playoffs I haven’t been looking at such things.

The good news is coming for the Coyotes and their fans! I cannot wait to finally have a new owner who cares & knows about hockey!