Chutes And Ladders: Phoenix Coyotes

For the last couple of days, and continuing for the next few days, I have been and will be looking at each team in the NHL and identifying a couple of players in particular that fit into one of two categories based on the once popular kids game, Chutes and Ladders.  The players in the “chutes” category will be players who exceeded expectations last season, and will have a difficult time avoiding a slide in the coming season.  The “ladder” category will consist of players who are ready to climb a level in their play and step up a notch.  Feel free to brows back to see previous teams, and look for more teams in the coming days.

PHOENIX COYOTES

May 2, 2013; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Capitals center Mike Ribeiro (9) skates with the puck as New York Rangers defenseman Anton Stralman (6) chases in the second period of game one of the first round of the 2013 Stanley Cup playoffs at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Chutes:  Mike Ribeiro – Last year Riberio continued his trend of playing well in contract years.  In the years that followed his previous contract, his production was off pace (although still pretty decent).  However, this is likely his last contract and Ribeiro will never have his name mentioned among those most competitive and intense players in the game.

Feb 14, 2013; Nashville, TN, USA; Nashville Predators right wing Martin Erat (10) fights for the puck against Phoenix Coyotes defenseman David Rundblad (2) during the third period at Bridgestone Arena. The Predators beat the Coyotes 3-0. Mandatory credit: Don McPeak-USA TODAY Sports

Ladders: David Rundblad – The former Senators defenseman has signed a one way contract, meaning he should finally become a full time NHLer and should be a contributor over the course of the season.  He has bounced up and down for the past 2 seasons, but some consistency should mean the world to him.