'Doan-Watch' is Under Way
Where is Shane Doan going?
Shane Doan's name has generated a lot of buzz in the hockey world in the last few weeks. For 17 years, Doan has been a member of the Winnipeg Jets/Phoenix Coyotes organization, and for the first time in his career, the 35 year old has the option to move on and he just might take it.
Up to 17 teams have been rumored to be seeking out Doan's services, and why not? Doan has made a living out of being a leader. He's a vocal leader. An on-ice leader. He can block a shot, get up and score a goal. He's can fight. He always stands up for his team and his teammates no matter what. He is the perfect hockey player.
With the uncertainty of the Coyotes future in Phoenix, Doan said he will not make a decision until he knows what is going to happen. Since July 1st, the opening of NHL Free Agency, Doan has refused to entertain any offers from any team until at least July 9th, the day a petition was to be turned in with signitures from the 'anti-Coyotes' in order to put the lease agreement with the City of Glendale and potential buyer Greg Jamison up for vote in November. With the deadline come and gone and nothing filed, the sale of the Coyotes to Jamison could be completed soon, and the 'Yotes would be safe and sound in Phoenix.
Where does this leave Doan?
There is still no certainty if the Coyotes will stay or leave. So, Doan has been opening up his phone lines to potential buyers - namely the Penguins, the Kings, the Sharks and the Red Wings. Doan's leadership qualities and overall character would do wonders for any team, but these four inparticular are very intersting. Doan's agents have been receiving interest from at least 17 teams, and as a right wing, it makes me wonder how hard the Capitals will push to fill their glaring need for extra scoring and punch on the right side. The Penguins will push hard, as will the Red Wings. Imagining him with Crosby kind of makes me sick to my stomach, but maybe Doan can toughen him up a bit.
Doan does, of course, have control of his destiny. Nothing is imminent. Never is. But 'Doan-Watch' is certainly under way.
*picture credit goes to Upper Deck - genius.
