The Arizona Coyotes are seeking a one or two-year deal with embattled prospect Anthony Duclair, Sarah McLellan of AZCentral reports. Duclair is currently an RFA without arbitration rights. He was initially taken 80th overall in the 2013 Entry Draft, and electrified fans with a surprise breakout rookie campaign.
Duclair had a tumultuous sophomore season as his play dropped precipitously from his rookie year, and he became the subject of rampant trade rumors. The Coyotes eventually demoted Duclair to the AHL Tucson Roadrunners in the hopes that he could regain his scoring touch. Duclair finished the season with 5G and 10A in 58 NHL games, and 1G and 7A in 16 AHL games. The former 3rd round pick broke into the NHL with 20G and 24A in 81 games, and the Coyotes hope he can return to that level.
A short-term deal could be in the best interest of both player and organization. Duclair could accept a one-year “prove-it” deal and hope that his play rebounds enough to garner a more lucrative contract next season. The 21 year-old is only one year removed from his stellar rookie season.
He was part of the Keith Yandle trade with the Rangers. That trade didn’t help either franchise much but Duclair is the only player involved in that trade still on either of the two teams