Fans react to Coyotes’ decision not to bring back Shane Doan

News broke Monday that the Arizona Coyotes have decided not to bring back their captain, Shane Doan, for a 21st season in the Valley. Doan moved with the Winnipeg Jets to Arizona following his rookie season in 1995-96, and has been a pillar ever since.

Last week, arizonasports.com’s Craig Morgan reported that Doan was leaning toward returning for another season, but now his desires have been taken out of the equation.

It’s unclear if Doan, who has played in 1,540 games in his NHL career (14th most in league history), will seek to sign with another team or retire.

Either way, Coyotes fans were passionate in their reaction to the news on social media.

Here’s a sampling of some that were none too happy with Arizona’s decision to cut ties with one of the most popular athletes this city has ever rooted for.

Coyotes better show me something next season. What they just did to Doan is similar to what caused me to hate the Stars with Derian Hatcher.

— Keegan Kelly (@helliondota2) June 19, 2017

@YotesHereToStay Not a good day for the @ArizonaCoyotes . Mr Doan is a Valley icon and epitome of class. Maybe a BIG mistake by Barroway pic.twitter.com/S9NiJhHHU2

— Enrico A. Bertoletti (@Enrico056) June 19, 2017

Shane Doan walks away from you; you don't walk away from Shane Doan. 😔1️⃣9️⃣ #AlwaysTheCaptain

— NotTysonNash (@NotTysonNash) June 19, 2017

It's extremely upsetting the Doan will not be finishing his career as a Coyote. Wish him the best of luck & he will deeply missed in AZ!😔❤️

— Caitlyn (@cpence1212) June 19, 2017

I might be biased, but Doan's departure wasn't handled well, Yotes don't have to bring him back but should have managed exit better.

— Mike Johnson (@mike_p_johnson) June 19, 2017

I'm conflicted on the Doan thing. He was awful last year and it's definitely time to move on. Just wish it was his decision.

— Ryan W (@RyGuyAZ) June 19, 2017

Shane Doan should get to call his own shots or at least make it look that way. It's not like Arizona is one player away from winning the Cup

— Gerry Dee (@gerrydee) June 19, 2017

Hurts me to hear this! Shane Doan is one of the best AZ sports has ever had! https://t.co/ruVSXNZTbE

— BigSauce (@alantwilliams) June 19, 2017

Honestly, it's just like the Coyotes to handle the Doan situation like this. It's pretty disheartening. #Coyotes

— Sarah (@sarahmc24) June 19, 2017

@PunkMemeQueen we had to let Shane Doan go. He was not productive last season.
It will be ok, he's rich

— AZ PunkRock (@punkrock_az) June 19, 2017

Shocked, disappointed, but reserving judgement on the Coyotes organization till I hear more…cause I expect some dignity here…

— Mark Wangeman (@MWangeman) June 19, 2017

I'm understanding of it, but it doesn't mean that I have to like the move.

— Andrew Southwick (@asouth89) June 19, 2017

Understand it, but angry at the way it was handled.

Now go lift up Lord Stanley somewhere else Doaner. You've earned it.

— Chris Folker (@cfolkeraz) June 19, 2017

This is the right thing to do, at some point in time knew this day was coming. I don't understand all the backlash the organization is

— Gilbert Anthony (@_GilbertAnthony) June 19, 2017

Getting, his production has fallen and with such a talented prospect pool that needs to develop, this has to happen.

— Gilbert Anthony (@_GilbertAnthony) June 19, 2017

Sad and frustrating. I realize it's a business but certain players come around once a generation and should leave on their terms #Doan#Fitz

— Swag Hockey (@_SWAG_hockey) June 19, 2017

As a #Yotes fan, I'm upset with this treatment of someone who has bled for this team. This loyalty proves to me now they will leave AZ.

— Dustin Rayhorn (@DeeRay2005) June 19, 2017

They couldn't tell him this last season? Come on? I understand the reasoning but this is not the send off you give the Captain. #Classless

— Tom Travers (@PoolManchu) June 19, 2017

I think it's a good thing, finally put this to rest, makes decision for him so he doesn't have to agonize over it anymore team takes the hit

— Llewelyn Christopher (@LDChris76) June 19, 2017

It's a business. It's time for Shane Doan to go. Love the guy to death and all time coyotes great but he didn't produce last year

— Desert Dogma Sports (@DesertDogma) June 19, 2017

And then there’s this little nugget…

Things not on this planet yet when Shane Doan debuted:

Google
HDTV
Nashville Predators
Connor McDavid

— Mike Benton (@Benton_Mike) June 19, 2017

Related

Diamondbacks top pick Ryder Helfrick gets major league preview: ‘It was unreal’USHL announces 2 expansion teams coming to ArizonaNHL exploring expansion locations, Arizona not at forefrontCoyotes legend Keith Tkachuk elected to Hockey Hall of Fame after sons become teammatesToronto Maple Leafs win the lottery for the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NHL DraftMaple Leafs hiring John Chayka as new GM is ‘like a nightmare’ from Shane Doan’s past