It has been a bit of a whirlwind surrounding Taylor Hall in recent weeks, knowing that a trade was likely coming, with no real insight as to where the former Hart Trophy winner would wind up.
Ultimately, Hall was dealt to Arizona along with prospect Blake Speers for a package of assets which included Nicholas Merkley, Kevin Bahl and Nate Schnarr, plus two conditional draft picks. The Devils will receive the Coyotes 1st round pick in 2020, unless it is a top three selection, in which case, the pick would become the Yotes' 2021 1st round pick. The Devils will also receive the Coyotes 3rd round pick in 2021, which could become a 2nd if Hall re-signs in Arizona or if the Yotes win a playoff series. That pick becomes a 1st rounder if Hall re-signs in Arizona AND they win a playoff round.
Well, according to comments made by Darren Ferris - Hall's agent - it is a real possibility that Hall decides to remain in the desert for more than just the duration of this season.
"(The recent trade) gives Arizona an opportunity that it probably would not have been afforded for him to consider in the future because you just don't know where the mindset would be at the end of the year. Now you get a chance to have him in there, have him get an idea of what it's like to be in Arizona, and I have the feeling with the way Hallsy approaches things that he will really like Arizona and the lifestyle there. He is going to see that, 'This might be a place where I can play for a while.'"
A usually very tight-lipped Ferris seemed to be much more amenable to speak openly about the possibility that his client may come to enjoy life in Arizona, ahead of any actual negotiations.
"I think this is a good situation for Taylor," Ferris said. "You've got a great coach there. Rick Tocchet is one of my favorites. I'm glad he got the opportunity to coach in Arizona because players over the years that I've had with him love him and really like to play for him. I really think he's today's kind of coach so, again, I think this is a good situation for Taylor."
Hall and Ferris can begin discussions with the Coyotes at any time, although it is expected that Hall has intended to see what free agency has to offer before making a decision.
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