Captain Shane Doan, newcomer Raffi Torres, 2011 NHL Entry Draft selection Lucas Lessio and the rest of the Phoenix Coyotes will hit the ice on Saturday morning to start off their 2011 training camp at Jobing.com Arena.
Head Coach Dave Tippett and his staff have a total of 59 players on the roster, which includes one player on a professional tryout (Ryan Hollweg). The team will participate in three days of workouts before the first preseason game against the Ducks on Tuesday night in Anaheim.
Here are three questions facing the Coyotes as they head into training camp:
Will Kyle Turris make an appearance?
Coming into camp, forward Kyle Turris’ absence is the biggest story. Turris is due for a new contract, but reports have indicted that the native of New Westminster, BC wants a contract that’s worth well above his worth.
General Manager Don Maloney spoke to the media regarding the situation at Friday’s media day and said that he’s not going to give into Turris’ contract demands, nor will he trade the young forward.
“Well, that’s what makes America great, he (Turris) doesn’t have to settle (for the contract we’re offering him),” said Maloney on Friday. “He can stay at home, and watch Oprah.”
Will any rookies make the roster?
A handful of players who were in rookie camp will be in camp with the veterans to try to turn the heads of Tippett and his staff. But with the Coyotes’ roster nearly filled it will be tough for any of them to break through.
One notable exception is at the center position, where Kyle Turris’ absence has led to an open spot there. Andy Miele, who had a strong showing at the rookie camp, could be a candidate to fill that open spot if he can continue his strong showing.
Other young players who could have a shot at the roster include defensemen Brandon Gormley and Chris Summers.
How will the goaltending look?
Mike Smith was signed in the offseason with the idea that he would take over the starting goaltending duties after the departure of Ilya Bryzgalov. But Maloney went out and also signed Curtis McElhinney and Justin Pogge, two goaltenders with NHL experience who could push Smith.
While it is just preseason, Smith’s performances over the next couple of weeks could give us a preview of how he’ll look under the guidance of Goaltending Coach Sean Burke.
For a complete camp roster and schedule, click here
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