Off the Ice: Possible trade targets for the Phoenix Coyotes

Mar 19, 2013, 5:57 AM | Updated: 2:07 pm

Arizona Sports

The Phoenix Coyotes have done a complete 180 over the past week.

Despite an offense that seemed to be chugging along, the Coyotes have failed to register a goal in 194:05 of play. Think about that. The last time they scored, the Catholic Church was still looking for its new pope.

The Coyotes’ offense has struggled since the departure of Radim Vrbata, who was placed on injured reserve after breaking a bone in his foot. He led the team in goals last season with 35 and his absence essentially removes the team’s top sniper.

With that being said, it’s time for the Coyotes to get active in the trade market. The team simply can’t score and, should Vrbata be out for a while, the offense will continue to struggle. The team has a plethora of defensemen, some of which could be surrendered in an attempt to bring a scorer the Coyotes desperately need.

I didn’t factor any cap space into the trade, since the Coyotes currently have over $19 million in room. I’m sure the NHL has put some limits on spending, but a talented scorer will likely cost a defenseman and a prospect, likely making enough room to absorb a slightly larger contract.

Also, I’m aware of the names I’m listing below. They are all household names (or should be) and will cost the Coyotes. The team can’t look to bring in another role player on a roster that’s already overloaded with them.

As far as I can tell, the guys below would be available for the right price and would also fit well into the Coyotes system.

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Alexander SeminIf the Coyotes move for Semin, they're dumb. I included him because his name was everywhere when I was searching for rumors, so here he is. Semin is 8-21-29 this season, which is nothing to turn a nose at, but Carolina is having a pretty good year. I don't see the 'Canes saying "do svidaniya" to the Russian any time soon, especially given his $7 million hit.(AP Photo)

Tyler BozakI personally feel the Leafs will ride Bozak into the playoffs, but the talented 26-year-old wants his pay day, something Toronto likely won't give him. It would be a mistake to trade him, but hey, it's the Leafs. They're not known for making the smartest moves. Bozak is 7-9-16 this season.(AP Photo)

Jaromir JagrThis, I must say, is unlikely. The Stars don't look good right now and Jagr, who is 10-8-18 on the season, could be pried away for prospects. However, his scoring touch and skill, especially running a power play, would be more than welcome. And the desire to see a living legend on the Coyotes does have it's allure...(AP Photo)

Teemu SelanneThis is a pipe dream, but man, would I love to see the Finn come home. Selanne is a big asset on the high-flying Ducks and is 6-12-18 on the season. He's an unrestricted free agent next year and still has plenty in the tank. Personally, I don't see Anaheim giving him up this season, but Maloney better be on the phone with him in the offseason.(AP Photo)

Dany HeatleyFirst off, he has a no-move clause. That being said, Heatley isn't enjoying his time in Minnesota that much. He's only 8-5-13 this season, but that's coming off 24-29-53 last season. The Wild are currently making a playoff push, but with Heatley not contributing that much, maybe the Coyotes could tempt him away.(AP Photo)

Daniel BriereThe former Coyote and current Philadelphia Flyer was the source of rumors earlier this season. He's under contract with Philly until the 2014-2015 season, but it was front-loaded. He's set to make $7 million this year, which drops to $2 million next year. He's only 5-8-13 on the year, but that may make him an easier get from the Flyers. This intrigues me.(AP Photo)

Pascal DupuisThe 33-year-old Dupuis is often overshadowed by much bigger names on the Pens, but he is a consistent scorer. He's 14-7-21 on the season, not huge numbers, but still solid. Add in the fact the Coyotes GM Don Maloney was in Pittsburgh earlier this week and the team's past trading history, and this one is my dark horse.(AP Photo)

Patrik EliasI'm not 100 percent certain the Devils would even look to deal Elias, given his point-a-game production. However, his $6 million contract is a bit high for a 36-year-old, so they may look to move him. Elias is 9-18-27 this season.(AP Photo)

Mike RibeiroThe former Dallas Star and current Washington Capital is a spot of light on an otherwise dim team. He knows the Pacific Division and would bring a welcome scoring touch. After all, he's 10-21-31 this season.(AP Photo)

Jarome IginlaThe Calgary Flames veteran forward is reportedly available. He may be a little bit older, but his 7-12-19 this season would be a welcome contribution. Add in the fact that he's friends with captain Shane Doan, and this seems logical.(AP Photo)

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