Phoenix, AZ

The Phoenix Coyotes have agreed on a long-term contract extension with coach Dave Tippett, saying that his work ethic makes him an ideal fit with the team.

"We are very pleased to agree to terms with Dave to a long-term contract extension," said Coyotes general manager Don Maloney, who did not disclose the length and amount of the deal as per team policy.

"Dave is one of the best at his job in today's game. His work ethic, attention to detail, communicative skills and patience make him an ideal fit with our group as we work to build a franchise capable of winning the Stanley Cup," he added.

According to various media reports, Tippett signed a five-year deal with the Coyotes. Tippett's contract was set to expire July 1 and he would have been eligible to negotiate with other teams.

"I am thrilled to stay with the Coyotes," said Tippett. "Don has done a very good job of assembling a great staff and group of players here and I like the direction we are headed."

"We've started to build a strong foundation and we are both looking forward to continuing to build a winning team here in the Valley and taking the next step as a first-class organization," he added.

The 51-year-old Tippett took over as head coach of the Phoenix Coyotes in 2009, succeeding Wayne Gretzky. He had immediate success, guiding the team to a 50-25-7 record and its first playoff appearance since the 2001-2002 season.

In 2011-12, the Coyotes won the Pacific Division for the first time, won their first playoff series and made their first trip to the Western Conference Final, where they lost to the Los Angeles Kings, who went on to win the Stanley Cup

In his four-year run with Phoenix, Tippett has a record of 156-96-42 and has qualified for the Stanley Cup Playoffs three times. His .602 win percentage is the best in team history.

In 10 seasons as an NHL head coach, Tippett has a record of 427-252-107. His 427 victories are the second-most wins by an NHL coach during that span, trailing only the 445 of Mike Babcock of the Detroit Red Wings. He has made the playoffs in eight of the past ten years and has topped the 100-point plateau four times.

Tippett spent six seasons as head coach of the Dallas Stars from 2002-03 to 2008-09 before joining the Coyotes.

 

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Coyotes, coach Dave Tippett agree on long-term deal