Developing talent ... Not a bad idea

The Phoenix Coyotes are out of playoff contention and for the most part out of the news as the stretch drive is reaching top gear. As the trades of Nagy, Forsberg and Conroy have dominated the hockey headlines the Coyotes have been making some positive strides in developing a team built for the long run.

First was the signing of captain Shane Doan, who to those outside of Phoneix may not seem like a ground shaking signing, but for those within the organization, this is a giant step forward.

A quality player, with character that wants to stay in the desert, may be enough to attract another quality signing in the offseason. Doan gives the team a foundation to build around, something the organization has desperately lacked for many years. Shortly after the Doan signing, the dogs inked Tellqvist, and Zigomanis to contract extensions. Along with the aquisition of Tarnqvist and a first round pick, Barnett is building his stock of youth. This is a bold step by a GM whose team is not in playoff contention as the general rule is to make the current roster earn a spot on next year's team.

While the recent moves may not prove fruitful in the immediate future, the desert dogs are due for a turnaround at some point. While it will certainly take Mr. Barnett more than a few signings to turn this franchise into a winner, the recent moves are most certainly a positive step forward.