Jamie McGinn looking to be a leader for Arizona Coyotes
Buffalo Sabres' Jamie McGinn celebrates his goal against the Columbus Blue Jackets during the third period of an NHL hockey game Friday, Feb. 19, 2016, in Columbus, Ohio. The Sabres won 4-0. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)
The Arizona Coyotes’ start to NHL free agency was largely about depth, but they did manage to bring in one name who should be able to consistently make an impact.
27-year-old Jamie McGinn signed a three-year deal with the team, and the winger plays like what GM John Chayka describes as a “big, physical, power forward who scores goals and plays a gritty style.”
Coming off a career-high 22 goals last season, McGinn brings a physical presence and scoring touch to the Coyotes’ forward group.
“I’m very happy to be a Coyote today.” McGinn said on Bickley and Marotta on Arizona Sports 98.7 FM Friday.
“I think they’re big into making it a family atmosphere,” McGinn said. “You know, they’re close together. This is a good position for me to come in and be a leader, I want to take on that role and do whatever I can to help win. I think we have a solid group, a lot of good, young talent.”
The opportunity to lead that young talent will be there. Forwards Max Domi and Anthony Duclair are coming off successful rookie campaigns, and there could be more of the Coyotes’ well-stocked group of promising forwards joining the team next season.
“I see a lot of upside to this team,” McGinn said.
“Right now, I’m at the position where I want to go in and be a leader. I consider myself kind of a vocal guy in the room and keep things relaxed, but hold guys accountable and I try to work to the best of my abilities when I’m on the ice and contribute when I can. It definitely went into a lot of the decision-making today, that this is a good situation and I’m really looking forward to it.”
