Back in 2018 the Coyotes selected Barrett Hayton 5th overall in the NHL Entry Draft.

Some were critical at the time, but then Hayton went back to the OHL for his draft + 1 year and absolutely dominated, beating his previous career high by six points and five goals in 24 less games.

Given the Coyotes almost pathetic lack of scoring talent on their roster, it was widely assumed that he'd be a regular this season.

But much like Dylan Strome before him, Barrett Hayton is having trouble getting ice time under headcoach Rick Tocchet.

Hayton has appeared in just 14 games this year.

To be fair to the coach, Hayton hasn't exactly lit it up when called upon - he has just one goal, and has been about a 45% player across the board (differentials in shot-attempts, shots, scoring chances etc).

That said, he's been well over 50% when playing with Schmaltz (about half the time), and he's only ever played with Keller (the Coyotes best forward) for six minutes.

He also only has about 5 minutes of power-play time all season.

Given the Coyotes scoring woes (since October 19th they've scored 4 goals in a game twice in regulation) I don't see the logic in rarely playing arguably the most talented player on the team.

At the very least, it would make sense to give him some protected 4th line minutes and use his skills on the power-play.

Won't matter know though, cause he's on Team Canada, where he'll be their #1 centre and likely best player, until after New Years.

While it's disappointing that it's come to this, it's also probably good for his career.

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