An important criteria in the Coyotes' search for a new goaltending coach this summer was identifying a candidate compatible with No. 1 Mike Smith.
During the four seasons Smith was mentored by former goalie coach Sean Burke, the bond between the two was regularly spotlighted as a contributing factor to Smith's success -- especially in 2011-12 when he ranked among the best in the position.
Burke's contract expired earlier this summer, and he did not re-up with the team, wanting to pursue a front-office job elsewhere in the NHL.
"We were concerned," coach Dave Tippett said.