Gretzky Steps Down As Coyotes Coach

((HT: GlobeSports/Duhatschek))

Wayne Gretzky ((pictured, thanks Reuters)) said he was able to read the writing on the wall, noting that “since both remaining bidders made it clear that I don’t fit into their future plans, I approached 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.”

Indications are that Coyotes general manager Don Maloney will name a permanent head coaching replacement for Gretzky as soon as this afternoon, when they've scheduled a news conference. The leading candidate is believed to be Dave Tippett, the former Dallas Stars’ coach, who also has a previous association with King through Hockey Canada’s defunct national team program in the 1980s. Tippett would be familiar with the Coyotes, given that his team played against them six times last season.

Two Gretzky-era coaches will stay- Ulf Samuelsson and Dave Sulliman. It looks like Sean Burke and Dave King are your other two assistants.

Practice and access to the Coyotes were both closed off to the media today.

Here's Gretzky's statement, thanks to the Globe and Mail...

When asked, Don Cherry says he doesn't understand why Wayne Gretzky is walking away from the Phoenix Coyotes.

Cherry says Gretzky should be on the ice with players, and forget about any financial concerns.

Cherry was in Winnipeg, Manitoba pumping them up for the new hockey season...