2013-14 record: 37-30-15 (89 points)
Missed the playoffs
Captain: Shane Doan
The story of the Arizona Coyotes will likely pick up where the Phoenix Coyotes of last year (and several years before that) left off: solid defense, but severely lacking in goal scoring. While their defense wasn't anywhere near what the Coyotes were accustomed to (18th in goals against average), there were still times where it carried the day for them. A more focused and healthy Mike Smith will go a long way towards fixing that issue, as will improving a penalty killing unit that was in the bottom fifth of the league. Offensively, losing Radim Vrbata will hurt, as he was a sure bet for at least 20 goals a season. That means the likes of newly acquired Sam Gagner, a healthy Shane Doan, and either Max Domi or Henrik Samuelsson (or both) will have to pick up some slack. Offense from the blue line is not an issue, but finding forwards to help finish what they start is something the Coyotes need.
Prediction: 5th in the Pacific Division
Defense will keep the Coyotes in the playoff race, but until they find offensive playmakers, they will be an on-the-bubble team once again.
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