{coyotes} SMITH LOBBIES FOR BURKE

Monday 28 May 2012

{coyotes} SMITH LOBBIES FOR BURKE

Whether netminder Mike Smith remains in a Coyotes sweater long-term could depend on goalie coach Sean Burke's status with the team, according to The Arizona Republic.

Burke, who helped Smith achieve a renaissance season, does not have a contract for next season, and that could sway Smith when it comes to negotiations, which General Manager Don Maloney would like to start this summer.

"I think it has an impact on it," Smith said. "Obviously his contract is up. I have a year left. Looking at the long-term, he's made me a better goaltender. I couldn't have done it without him, and I believe he's the best guy in the league at what he does. To be able to have a guy like that to lean on and he shows confidence in me every game whether I'm at my best or not, it's very easy to go out there and just do what I have to do and be the best."

Burke, who also serves as the director of player development, doesn't plan to leave but he'll address the issue with Maloney in a few weeks.

"Mike was tremendous to work with, and I don't see that changing but you just never know in this business," Burke said. "So I'm just going to kind of let it play out."

Maloney also doesn't anticipate any changes.

"I think it's a good marriage," he said. "We certainly expect Sean back with us."

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