Paul Bissonnette gives heartbreaking farewell to Arizona Coyotes
Photo credit: Front Office Sports
During the Arizona Coyotes' final game, former player Paul Bissonnette delivered an emotional tribute to his former team. Speaking on TNT's U.S. broadcast, Bissonnette, dressed to the nines in a tuxedo, opened up about his time with the Coyotes and the impending move to Salt Lake City.
Recalling his unexpected journey to the NHL, Bissonnette shared,
I was a borderline NHLer... I got to spend five of the best years of my life living out my dream in the National Hockey League.
While expressing gratitude to many within the organization, Bissonnette notably omitted praise for owner Alex Meruelo, who is selling the franchise to NBA owner Ryan Smith.
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Reflecting on the Coyotes' challenges, particularly in finding a suitable arena, Bissonnette didn't mince words about his disappointment in the handling of certain aspects.
Not crazy about the way that ownership handled things and the way that people that I care about were treated
.
I wish I could have been there tonight at the Mullet. Thank you to every single amazing person I came across while being involved with the Phoenix/Arizona Coyotes organization. You made the engine run. You helped me live out my dream and I'll never forget you. I'm forever grateful. Hockey will be back in the desert.
Despite the uncertainty, Bissonnette remains hopeful about hockey's future in Arizona.
I know that hockey belongs in the desert. I know that hockey belongs in the desert. I know that it will be back there.
.
Previously on Daily Hockey Dose
| POLL |
18 AVRIL | 223 ANSWERS Paul Bissonnette gives heartbreaking farewell to Arizona Coyotes What's your take on Paul Bissonnette's emotional tribute to the Arizona Coyotes? |
| Touching farewell | 121 | 54.3 % |
| Mixed feelings | 102 | 45.7 % |
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