Coyotes’ Past Deadlines as GM Armstrong Busy Again

Previous trade deadlines involving the Coyotes indicate that General Manager Armstrong will once again have a bustling schedule ahead

The Arizona Coyotes are gearing up for the approaching March 8 NHL Trade Deadline, with expectations of being active on the market. Despite enduring a challenging 14-game losing streak, the Coyotes are poised to act as sellers, preparing to offload several players on expiring contracts. At the start of the highly anticipated 2023-24 season, the Coyotes were a significant unknown factor, potentially capable of securing a playoff spot or narrowly missing out on the opportunity.

However, their recent performance has dramatically altered the course of the season, placing the pressure on general manager Bill Armstrong to make crucial decisions. Armstrong has a track record of making trades that prioritize the team’s long-term success, aiming for eventual Stanley Cup glory in Arizona. It will be interesting to look back at his previous deadline transactions and speculate on the potential moves he could make this time around. Let’s wait and watch the trades unfold!

The last three trade deadlines were filled with numerous transactions

Armstrong’s approach as a GM emphasizes exploring all opportunities to enhance the team’s future. Whether it involves acquiring young talents or obtaining draft assets by trading players, Armstrong remains proactive in making calls and exploring various avenues for team improvement. In the fast-paced environment of the modern NHL, filled with frequent blockbuster trades, GMs are expected to be constantly active, especially when a team is out of playoff contention and primed for a rebuild.

Armstrong highlighted the importance of accumulating assets through acquiring draft picks, which can provide flexibility in roster building and potential player acquisitions like Jack McBain and Sean Durzi. The plethora of draft picks accumulated offers a wide array of options for the Coyotes, not just in drafting players but also in acquiring talent. Armstrong emphasized that player performance will ultimately guide the team’s direction, acknowledging the current standings and the upcoming decisions that need to be made.

Despite the team’s recent struggles and the impending trade deadline, Armstrong has a history of being active in negotiations, as demonstrated by resolving the Jakob Chychrun situation last year and trading expiring contracts like Nick Bjugstad and Troy Stecher. While there are several players who could be on the move, ultimately, the decision rests in Armstrong’s hands as he navigates the team’s future direction through potential trades and acquisitions.

Who is expected to depart?

1. Jason Zucker, a recent acquisition in the current season, has not displayed his usual goal-scoring prowess seen in his previous performances. With only eight goals and 23 points in 49 games, he hasn’t had the significant impact initially anticipated upon his signing. Nevertheless, he is expected to be moved via a trade, as teams competing for a title may value his experience and leadership. The Coyotes may need to retain a portion of his $5.3 million contract to increase the potential return in the trade, although this would depend on the acquiring team’s salary cap status.
2. Matt Dumba, also acquired during the recent offseason, sought to rejuvenate his career with a move to Arizona. His performance with the Minnesota Wild in the previous season was on a decline, prompting him to seek a fresh start elsewhere. However, the experienced defenseman has faced challenges in finding his form with his new team. Due to his underwhelming performance, it is unlikely that he will fetch a first-round draft pick in a trade. By potentially retaining some of his salary, a reasonable estimation could be a trade return of a third-round pick or possibly a second-round pick, depending on the specific needs and assessment of interested teams regarding Dumba’s skill set.
3. Troy Stecher returned to the team this summer, and despite his familiarity with the Arizona Coyotes, he has not had a significant impact. He often flies under the radar during games, which could actually be viewed as a positive attribute for a competitive team seeking defensive depth. As a seasoned player who is capable at both ends of the ice, his trade value is expected to be modest. The Coyotes may choose to retain him to avoid depleting their defense completely, depending on other roster moves being considered.

   While the aforementioned players are potential trade candidates nearing the deadline, other names such as Bjugstad, Karel Vejmelka, and even Nick Schmaltz are also being mentioned. Although it is unlikely that Schmaltz and Vejmelka will be traded, anything can happen in the dynamic environment of the trade deadline.

The ongoing rebuilding efforts are still a work in progress, but there are clear signs of development. The recent series of games has been disheartening for fans to witness. Enduring a losing streak, especially one extending to 14 games, is never easy for supporters. Nonetheless, it underscores the necessary steps involved in a prolonged rebuilding phase aimed at establishing a competitive and sustainable team.

While the current struggles are challenging to overlook, there have been numerous encouraging moments throughout this season. Observing incremental growth is vital even in the midst of difficulties. Maintaining a playoff position until the start of the new year is a noteworthy accomplishment, particularly when considering the team’s position in previous seasons. Despite the current challenges, there is optimism about the future, and Coyotes fans can look forward to brighter days ahead.