TSN.ca reports the Phoenix Coyotes have re-signed forward Shane Doan to a five year contract worth around $23 million.
"The contract hasn't been signed and there are some "house keeping" issues to be resolved, but the key components, the term, the dollars and a highly coveted no-movement clause have been agreed to", reports the site.
The contract will likely be either front-or-back-loaded, with Doan getting either most of the money in the first two-three years of the deal, or it could go up progressively over each season. Regardless, it'll average out as $4.6 million against the 'Yotes cap.
Some might argue that this is far too much to pay for a 30-year-old winger whose only had one 30-goal season and never reached more that 68 points in a season. Still, the Coyotes consider Doan the face of their franchise and obviously consider it a worthwhile investment.
Say what you will about this deal, but Doan could've received as much, if not more, as an unrestricted free agent this summer. He also could've signed with a perennial playoff or Cup contender but opted to stay with the Coyotes.
As I noted earlier today on my website, Doan is to be commended for showing commitment to a franchise that has appeared to lack direction in recent years.
Hopefully for both he and the team, his commitment will be rewarded.
What do you think, Coyotes fans? Lemme hear your take on this.