Gretzky to coach the Coyotes?

[Max Power]

The Team is claiming Wayne Gretzky is planning to announce shortly he'll be taking the head-coaching job of the Phoenix Coyotes.

If true it's definitely an interesting turn of events... I'll post an article once I find it

[Max Power]

TSN.ca Staff


5/10/2005 9:59:10 AM

Wayne Gretzky is set to officially take over the coaching reigns of the Phoenix Coyotes, according to published reports.

The East Valley Tribune of Arizona quotes well placed NHL sources who say Gretzky and the Coyotes have all but agreed in principle to a new, three year deal with a formal announcement expected by weeks end.

Speculation has surrounded Gretzky's future in Phoenix since the team failed to officially hire a new head coach following last season. However, the collective bargaining lockout meant there was no need to name a head coach so long as there was no hockey being played.

In April, Gretzky - a part owner of the team since 2001 - said he would be reluctant to step behind the bench if the NHL agreed to use replacement players if no new collective agreement could be worked out with the union.

The newspaper says Rick Bowness, who was the interim coach at the end of last season, will return as an assistant with Gretzky and that Rich Tocchet will likely be hired as a second assistant once a new labour agreement is finalized.

[bluemeanie]

I've always had my doubts of Gretzky having that little 'something' that make's a good coach, but I've always known that - one day - I'd be finding out one way or another. It'll be interesting...

[Newfie John]

In every other thing that Gretzky has tried related to hockey, he's been successful in each endeavor, time will tell if coaching continues this pattern.

[a4l]

I have doubts about his ability to coach as well but as has been said .... time will tell.

[KB in Kelowna]

Given his track record I would have thought the Coyotes could use his General Manager's abilities, more than his coaching. Many name players have been unsuccessful coaches, but many grinder or no names have had very successful coaching careers. As others have said time will tell.

[leaferfan87]

It's going to be interesting to see how he does behind the bench. He definitely doesn't have to worry about respect from the players. They'll look at #99 behind the bench and remember the way he played, which might persuade them to really work and grind out there.

Time will tell how Gretz is as a coach. If this report is true I wish him the best of luck in his new career.

[slapshot™]

With Gretz behind the bench what are the chances that the Coyotes won't be using the trap? :nod:

[Rusty]

There is no doubting that Gretzky is a great hockey mind, but how many times have we seen an outstanding hockey player coach a team?

Something tells me that Pheonix will be looking to hire say a Glen Sather within a year or so????????