After an excellent start to the season, Logan Cooley’s offensive production has slowed as he has only scored two points in his last seven games, but that doesn’t worry Arizona Coyotes general manager Bill Armstrong at all.
The third overall pick in the 2022 draft is just a matter of getting to grips with the basics. Cooley has shown his talent several times, especially on the power play where he has nine points this year. However, it is certainly more difficult in a five-on-five game.
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“You will experience some electrifying moments; some dynamic moments. And then you’ll have moments where you know you’re a newbie and you’re learning,” Armstrong said in an interview with gophnx.com journalist Craig Morgan.
Despite his somewhat underwhelming performance of some time, Cooley has the chance to play with the best players on his squad, as he was part of the club’s starting trio alongside Nick Schmaltz and Clayton Keller.
“He has moments where he learns, but what I like about him is that he comes back to the rink every day with a smile on his face and wants to improve. Well, Barrett [Hayton] is missing, he has the opportunity to play with the big boys [Keller et Schmaltz]. This has good and bad things. You can play with the best, but they also demand the best, so it’s a big challenge for him.”
No Junior World Championships
This means Cooley is in his place in the NHL and will continue to perfect his game with the big club. Armstrong also categorically rejected the opportunity to see his young striker take part in the Junior World Cup with the USA during the holiday season.
“NO. He will play for the Coyotes this year,” the 53-year-old manager replied to the question.
Since the start of the season, the Pittsburgh native has scored two goals and 11 assists for 13 points in 21 games.