Defenseman Luke Schenn recently signed a two-year, $2.5 million contract with the Arizona Coyotes. The move looked like a win-win for both sides as the 26-year-old Schenn will be given the opportunity to grow his game in the hopes of landing a larger contract after the 2017-18 season while the Coyotes are hoping they just bought low on a defenseman who could have some untapped potential.
While Schenn has stated he’s excited for the opportunity, he’s also looking forward to playing in an environment where there’s less outside pressure compared to his time in Toronto, Philadelphia and Los Angeles.
Schenn spoke about pressure with Dave Vest on the official site of the Coyotes:
“I’m looking forward to coming to a market where I can just worry about playing hockey and not outside added pressure, and hopefully growing with the team. I know they have a lot of upside and I still feel like I’ve hopefully got some upside, too. (I’m) still at a good age where I can continue to grow with them and evolve.”
This isn’t the first time we’ve heard a player comment on how they’re relieved to be out from under scrutinizing eyes. However, detractors will point to the fact that the reason Schenn will have less pressure is because Arizona isn’t exactly a hockey hotbed.
Schenn isn’t exactly a hockey superstar, but it’s amazing what kind of role the media plays when it comes to players picking and choosing new teams. Phil Kessel’s exit from Toronto and ultimate Cup victory in Pittsburgh might be the best example, but Schenn’s case proves it happens across players of all skill levels.
