Coyotes part ways with captain Shane Doan

The Arizona Coyotes are parting ways with long-time captain Shane Doan. 

Arizona Coyotes fans literally do not know what hockey is like without Shane Doan. He has been with the franchise since they moved from Arizona. Doan’s been there through the highest of highs and lowest of lows. From the amazing green desert coyotes jerseys to the burgundy and black ones they wear today.

For the past few seasons, Doan has been doing one-year deals, contemplating retirement. The Coyotes have decided to part ways with their captain.

"The time has come for us to move on and to focus on our young, talented group of players and our very bright future. This was a very difficult decision given what Shane has done for the Coyotes and his unparalleled importance to the organization. With that said, this is necessary to move us forward as a franchise."

Doan will reportedly hit the free agent market. No word yet on if he plans to retire or not. But considering Doan has gone so long without a Stanley Cup, it’s likely he’ll see if any contenders want him. However, he will likely have to accept a fourth line role, as he had merely six goals in the 2016-17 season.

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It will be weird to watch the Coyotes without Doan. He’s been such an important part of their franchise. Doan has helped a nontraditional hockey market fall in love with the game. He will surely have his number retired by the team at some point. It’s sad his tenure with Arizona had to end like this, but the Coyotes are right. They have to move on without Doan. It has to happen eventually, why not now? Oliver Ekman-Larsson will reportedly take over as their captain now, with Doan not returning.