The Arizona Coyotes, it appears, are still interested in growing younger, so we should expect a few transactions this offseason. As the organization attempts to rebuild, anyone above the age of 25 could be sold. The fact that the 'Yotes have a pair of seasoned assets who still appeal to other teams is a plus for management.
Phil Kessel: The 33-year-old sniper does nothing but stay healthy and score goals. Sure, last season was a bit of a grind at times for Kessel but with only one season left on his deal at a reduced $6.8 million, the Coyotes shouldn't have any issues moving #81. 'Phil the Thrill' finished with 43 points in 56 games and with almost 100 Stanley Cup Playoff games under his belt, a contender with some cap space is the most likely landing spot for the scoring rental. Kessel holds 8-team trade protection but it's likely he waives for another chance at winning a Cup.
Conor Garland: The speedy winger is a curious case because there was a lot of talk the Coyotes were shopping him at the trade deadline, meanwhile he was signed for $775,000 and out performing his contract. The 25-year-old has scored where ever he's played which is something that interested the Toronto Maple Leafs back in April. Let's see if the two sides reconnect. Garland is a restricted free agent so his contract status certainly plays a role in negotiations.
The Coyotes appear to be on the verge of resetting their roster, and with only five players signed beyond next season, now is the ideal time to do so. This summer's movements are expected to continue, and Kessel or Garland might be included.
