from Sarah McLellan of the Arizona Republic,

After catching Rocky Mountain fever last season and losing 12 games while he attempted to restore his energy and strength, Coyotes captain Shane Doan could have given his body more downtime this offseason.

But he didn't.

Instead, the 37-year-old began his summer training even earlier than normal – starting in early May as opposed to the end of the month when he usually resumes workouts.

"I didn't like, obviously, the way last year went not making the playoffs," he said.

Rectifying that, it seems, is a top concern for Doan. When asked about his health, Doan answers with a simple, "Good," and a smile that closes the conversation. Of course, he hasn't forgotten about the way the bacterial disease sapped his stamina and left him fatigued.

In fact, improving his cardio has been an objective this summer and remains a priority as he skates at the Ice Den in Scottsdale with teammates before training camp opens in a week.

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