Maxim Goncharov

Goncharov is part of the stable of young, talented defenders currently floating through the Coyotes' organization, though the 23-year-old is unlikely to make much of an NHL impact in 2012-13 as he mustered four points, 37 PIMs and a minus-15 rating in 45 games with Portland last season. He needs a good season in the AHL in 2012-13 as the Yotes have a well of players at his position.

Goncharov, a former fifth-round pick by the Coyotes, spent last season in AHL San Antonio, where he tallied six goals and nine assists to go along with 65 PIMs and a minus-3 rating in 61 games. He'll have an opportunity to stick on the Coyotes' roster with a strong training camp.

In 2009-10, Goncharov spent time in the KHL where he appeared in 51 games for CSKA Moscow and posted 17 points (4G 13A) and a plus-5 rating. He ranked third on his team in scoring among defensemen. He has intense competition on his hands to make the Coyotes for 2010-11 with the likes of Oliver Ekman-Larsson. If he does not make the team, he would most assuredly play in the AHL with San Antonio and would add depth at that position for the Coyotes. He is a good skater and has an offensive upside to his game.