[sureLoss]

Some more stuff on Duclair:

http://arizonasports.com/story/13679...y-nearing-end/

In 31 games this season, Duclair has seven goals (on 10.9 percent shooting) and 13 points, but he is averaging just 13:20 of ice time (10th among regular Arizona forwards) and he has been a healthy scratch 10 times.

When asked for an explanation, here is what coach Rick Tocchet said recently: “You have to give effort. You’ve got to know the system. You’ve got to know where you’re going. It’s not on your own program. I’m not saying it’s just him. I’m not trying to pick on him. I just don’t think the effort’s there, quite frankly, on every night.”

This isn’t the first time Duclair has been in a coach’s doghouse. Former Coyotes coach Dave Tippett wanted more from Duclair, and Duclair had similar issues in juniors. That track record is hard to ignore.

There have also been problems with Duclair’s consistency, in-game focus and situational awareness, problems that have persisted this season despite constant cajoling from the coaches.

On the other hand, it is hard to ignore Duclair’s speed and ability to score in limited opportunities this season; a tantalizing combination if it can ever be harnessed. Duclair’s 1.02 goals scored per 60 minutes played is the third best mark on the team. So is his 0.88 goals per 60 minutes at even strength, and he is still sixth among forwards in Corsi For percentage (48.05).

Why is he singled out in a sea of players that has made a litany of mistakes in a 9-27-5 start? Weren’t Tocchet’s communication skills and ability to get through to younger players a key bullet point on his resume this summer? Why then, after four months, are the Coyotes so willing to pull the plug so quickly on a 22-year-old player who scores — on a team that is second to last in the NHL in goals per game (2.27)?

There must be more than meets the eye, but now both sides are seeking a fresh start.

The market for Duclair wasn’t strong after last season’s performance. It’s difficult to say how much it has improved in light of his current situation, but with both sides trying to find him another home, something likely will give.