Instant Analysis: Peter Mueller for Wojtek Wolski
The Coyotes and Avalanche swap superbly talented youngsters who have both fallen out of favour with their now former NHL franchises.
The Trade
To Phoenix: F Wojtek Wolski
To Colorado: C Peter Mueller, D Kevin Porter
From Phoenix’s Standpoint
Wojtek Wolski is a supremely talented player, who has performed far better than Peter Mueller this season. The speedy 6′3″ left winger has scored 47 points in 63 games this year, but has been criticized for his work ethic. From a purely statistical standpoint, the Coyotes should be pleased with this deal as Wolski will sit tied for the team lead in points with Shane Doan as he arrives in Phoenix. Positive for Phoenix is Wolski’s age (24) and the fact that his criticisms as a player are mostly based around his attitude. You can’t complain about production, and Wolski has produced. Phoenix is coached by the veteran Dave Tippett, who perhaps can make an impression on Wolski, who was being coached by rookie bench-boss Joe Sacco in Colorado.
From Colorado’s Standpoint
Peter Mueller was once considered a franchise cornerstone in Phoenix, thanks largely to his phenomenal rookie season in which he posted 22 goals and 54 points. Mueller was also a standout in the 2006 World Junior tournament, where he showed every indication of being the next great American centreman. The Avalanche make this deal in hopes that Mueller can turn his game around in the long haul, but this trade will hurt them if he fails to reverse his sour season; Colorado is headed for the playoffs and reliable point-getters are of tremendous importance in the Spring. The upside for Mueller is enormous, as the 6′2″, 21-year-old is a former 8th overall pick is believed to be struggling (similarly to Wolski) because of attitude and work ethic-related issues. He is set to become a restricted free agent after this season, so the Avalanche will have the leverage in those discussions after an off-year from Mueller.
Final Thoughts
Every trade must be evaluated in detail after the fact to truly determine the winner, but that is especially the case with this deal. Mueller and Wolski are top-flight talents, swapped in hopes that a change of surroundings can help them wake up and mature into consistent, hardworking players. For now, Phoenix wins.
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