After realizing that they were unable to attend the draft to the extent that would be required to make all of their picks, the Phoenix coyotes came up with a gameplan that they hoped would work.  They started by moving the 3rd and 6th round picks that they held in the draft for Antti Miettinen.  This move brought in a player who still owns 2nd line upside and who is still fairly young.  He's a great addition to the Coyotes where he'll fit into the third line this year, and in a few years when the rebuild happens, he'll be a leader who'll push for a 2nd line spot.  He certainly fits into the Coyotes long-term plan, and the price of a 3rd and 6th round pick was a fair price as there are typically no NHL guarantees beyond the 2nd round.

18th OV - Ryan McDonagh
When I found out it was my turn to pick and realized that Ryan was still available I couldn't believe it.  Ryan is considerd by many to be a true blue-chip prospect.  Perhaps his only fault is that he's behind a number of outher talented young defensemen on the Montreal Canadiens (NHL) roster.  This however is also a blessing, as the Canadiens are excellent at developing talent and in due time Ryan will be groomed into the potential he has shown.  According to Hockeys Future "McDonagh is not a flashy end-to-end player, but does just about everything well. He has good size, is a solid skater, and makes the right decisions with the puck. Hes very strong one-on-one, but will need to adjust to the quickness hell experience at higher levels of play. He can play in all situations and eat up a lot of ice time."

55th OV - T.J. Brennan
The Coyotes can thank Kirk for this pick as Steve was unable to make the pick himself and hired the ATL GM to make the pick for him.  T.J., another defensive prospect for the Coyotes has a similar profile to McDonagh in that he's a solid prospect who is stuck behind a number of other quality defensive prospects.  T.J. is a late bloomer in that he didn't focus his athletic abilities on hockey until 2006.  With his size and natural skill, the Coyotes are hoping he can develop the techincal aspects of the game as a late bloomer given his late start in development.  According to Hockey Futures "he is a fluid skater, but still needs to improve moving in the close quarters of the defensive zone.  He brings a hard shot and ability to pinch in on offense, allowing him to contribute on the power play.  His talent, physical style of play, and willingness to learn make him a well-rounded prospect with a good amount of upside."  Brennan is a project player, but with the likes of Mittera and McDonagh on their prospect list, the Coyotes have the time to let Brennan develop.