ANAHEIM, Calif. – More youth was part of the Coyotes’ plan this season as they continued to saddle prospects with NHL responsibilities, and the trend was poised to be most prominent up the middle.
Three rookies landed on the initial depth chart with two regularly securing spots in the lineup that a year ago were locked up by 30-somethings.
But as the Coyotes approach the midway point of their schedule with Friday’s road-trip finale in Anaheim against the Ducks, the up-and-comers at center have almost entirely been replaced by experienced NHLers as the team has tapped the trade market and waiver wire to make additions.