Its tough to believe that, only a few years ago, the Phoenix Coyotes were a crappy hockey team that seemed destined to relocate to Canada. In a way, the Coyotes have the Dallas Stars to thank for changing their fate.
It was the Stars decision to fire then-coach Dave Tippett that allowed the Coyotes to replace head coach Wayne Gretzky with somebody competent. Under Tippett, the Coyotes have transformed into a hard-nosed defensive team with an outside shot of winning the Stanley Cup.
Tippetts Coyotes will have a chance to thank the Stars personally when the two teams face off at Jobing.com Arena in Glendale.
Tue., Oct. 25, 7 p.m., 2011