from Terry Jones of the Edmonton Sun,

At this time of year, in the final week prior to the trade deadline, the first thing a hockey writer does is look to see what teams have sent scouts for a live look at the tradable talent on display.

Last night’s list posted prior to the Arizona Coyotes’ game against the Edmonton Oilers would give you the idea a lot of teams have little or no interest in anything the Oilers might have to offer.

There were only eight scouts in the building representing the Bruins, Lightning, Predators, Islanders, Canucks, Rangers, Devils and Maple Leafs.

At this time of year, the list can be more interesting than the game you are about to cover if you’re there to chronicle a team like the currently chronic losers from Edmonton, where a 12th season of the last 13 out of the playoffs is all but a mathematical certainty.

You couldn’t jump to the conclusion any of the scouts who were there were probably on hand to watch the Coyotes. Arizona came into the game only three points back of the final wildcard spot while the Oilers were seven back.

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