Gretzky Resigns as Coyotes Coach

So, the experiment of having the "Great One" spend his notoriety capital on a non-traditional hockey market is over now that Wayne Gretzky has resigned as head coach of the struggling Phoenix Coyotes franchise.

This was a difficult decision that I've thought long and hard about," Gretzky said. "We all hoped there would be a resolution earlier this month to the Coyotes ownership situation, but the decision is taking longer than expected.

"Since both remaining bidders have made it clear that I don't fit into their future plans, I approached general manager Don Maloney and suggested he begin looking for someone to replace me as coach. Don has worked hard and explored many options. I think he has made an excellent choice, and so now it's time for me to step aside."

I wouldn't know what to call this since this situation has nothing at all have any resemblance to successful. Did Gretzky's tenure stave off the inevitable bankruptcy situation just a few years later? Anyone can see that the team is being held together with bailout money, but the impact value of the Gretzky name is almost now immeasurable considering Wayne is only a minuscule percentage of the franchise's problems.

In his place, Dave Tippet, a well-respected coach recently ousted from Dallas, will now take over along with recently hired Dave King as an assistant. I expect good things to come of this choice. Tippet was instrumental in navigating the Dallas Stars' success as a perennial top contender each of the 6 seasons. He also knows the Pacific Division well which will benefit the Coyotes in the short term.

[Via: 570AM News]