Vernon Fiddler

This is a look at the Phoenix Coyotes forwards from this past season 2009-2010 and if they are on the team next year the role they will play and what is expected of them.

If the Phoenix Coyotes want to consider themselves a serious threat in the Pacific Division, then this is the week to prove it.

The Coyotes will face division leader the San Jose Sharks twice this week. While the Sharks might be the division leader, the Coyotes haven’t lost to the Sharks all season.

In 38 games this season, the Sharks have scored 127 goals, which is tied for second place in the NHL. However, against the Coyotes the Sharks have only scored once.

Despite a 3-2 victory last night, the Phoenix Coyotes lost an important part of their penalty-killing unit.

Forward Daniel Winnik was placed on injured reserve after missing the final twenty minutes in last night’s thriller against the Los Angeles Kings. Winnik was seen after the game with his right arm in a sling.

The loss of Winnik serves as a big loss as the Coyotes are also without center Vernon Fiddler who has missed the last three games due to a lower body injury.

If the NHL was to conclude today, the Phoenix Coyotes would clinch a playoff spot, the first time since 2002. The seven year drought would looks to end with the revamped Coyotes.

Coyotes Head Coach Dave Tippett has built up an early Coach of the Year resume under a new and improved Coyotes roster. After an off-season of uncertainty the Coyotes have changed the way of playing including the acquisition of several free agents as well as trades.

The first month of the NHL season is officially over. The Phoenix Coyotes capped off the month of October with a 3-2 shootout victory over the Anaheim Ducks on Halloween night. With the win they improved their overall record to an impressive 9-4.