Ed Jovanovski and His No Trade Clause
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by user Pbcoyotes
Before last season began, Curtis Joseph advised his team that bringing defenseman Ed Jovanovski to Phoenix would improve the team immensely. Since Jovanovski's arrival, he has been linked to many trade rumors. Jovanovski spoke directly to then General Manager Michael Barnett at the trade deadline to confirm those rumors, and received the vote of confidence that they wouldn't move him as he would have a future with the Phoenix Coyotes.
Thanks to PuckUpdate, who provided the link to On the Islander's Beat from Newsday.com, those rumors are beginning to resurface. Earlier this week, even Spector alluded to the possibility of Jovanovski waiving his trade clause, but didn't think the Coyotes would be able to move him during this off-season.
Should Jovanovski be moved? I don't think so, not at this time anyway.
Granted, Jovanovski missed a large part of two seasons with abdominal injuries that required surgery. Provided he can put together a full season, he still has value to the franchise. If there is a concern for injury, Jovanovski is as much risk to the Islanders as he is for the Coyotes.
Even though the Coyotes defensive core and its prospects have been the minor strength of an ailing franchise, dealing Jovanovski at this point in the year is not, in my mind, a good idea. I think prospect Keith Yandle needs to play a year in the AHL. The Coyotes have both Matt Jones and Travis Roche with NHL experience from playing with the Coyotes, but they still need to learn a great deal more about their position; Jovanovski should be the guy to help them out.
Creating more holes on the hockey team would not help them get better.
