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Wheeler snubs Coyotes, will become free agent
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Blake Wheeler, who was selected by the Coyotes fifth overall in the 2004 NHL draft, has rejected Phoenix’s contract offer and will become an unrestricted free agent, the team announced Thursday.
“We offered Blake a contract which was both commensurate with his draft position and far exceeded any guaranteed contract he can receive, under the current CBA (collective bargaining agreement), with any other team,” Coyotes general manager Don Maloney said in a news release.
“He has decided, however, that becoming a free agent is in his best interest.”
The Coyotes will receive the fifth pick in the second round (35th overall) at next month’s draft as compensation.
Wheeler, who was drafted out of high school by the Coyotes when he was 17 years old, submitted his letter of intention to turn professional on May 8.
The Coyotes had 30 days after Wheeler announced he was turning pro to sign him before he could become a free agent.
Wheeler, a forward, recently completed his junior season at the University of Minnesota.
He led the Golden Gophers in scoring with 15 goals and 20 assists for 35 points while playing in 44 games and earned third-team All-WCHA honors.
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