The Arizona Republic reflects on the fact that since the Coyotes selected Martin Hanzal and his 6-foot-6 frame 17th overall in the 2005 Entry Draft, he’s been groomed to be a matchup centerman that could shut down the other hulks of the Pacific Division like Joe Thornton and Anze Kopitar.
Despite that, Hanzal, who turns 26 years old Wednesday, wasn’t resistant to adapting his style to suit the Coyotes. Now in his sixth season with the team, he’s become adept at patrolling the ice against other team’s top lines all the while creating havoc along the boards and in front of the net with his size and strength.
That combination of duties has made him a pillar of the future of the franchise. He’s an alternate captain and is in the first year of a five-year contract.
“If you want to stay in the NHL, in this league, you want to be good in both zones,” Hanzal said. “I think it’s what everybody should be doing.”
Hanzal has played in only 12 games but is on pace to break the 20-goal mark (if he stays healthy, which isn’t a given) – something he’s yet to do in his NHL career.
“I see him as a good two-way player, same as he’s been the whole time that I’ve been here,” coach Dave Tippett said. “I think he’s always wanted to score more or get more points, but he recognizes for him to be the best player he can for our team he has to play both sides of the puck. He’s willing to do that. He’s been opportunistic this year.”