Logan Cooley has officially arrived.
Arizona Coyotes’ rookie sensation Logan Cooley made a jaw-dropping debut in the NHL preseason, scoring a dazzling goal against the Los Angeles Kings during the 2023 NHL Global Series in Melbourne, Australia. The 19-year-old center, drafted third overall by the Coyotes in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft, showcased his incredible talent and potential in front of a sold-out crowd of 13,097 fans at Rod Laver Arena.
The mesmerizing goal came at 11:40 of the second period, when Cooley received a pass from defenseman J.J. Moser in the neutral zone. He then used a spin move to beat Kings’ defenseman Andreas Englund and, while falling down, managed to beat goaltender Pheonix Copley with a stunning shot that gave the Coyotes a 4-1 lead.
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Goal of the year candidate from Logan Cooley… IN PRESEASON 🥵 pic.twitter.com/w2lZZvGquV
— Gino Hard (@GinoHard_) September 23, 2023
The goal not only electrified the crowd but also sent social media into a frenzy, with fans and analysts praising Cooley’s skill and composure. While it’s only the NHL preseason, some fans are already labeling the tally a “Goal of the Year” contender.
The game ended in a 5-3 victory for the Arizona Coyotes, with Cooley’s goal standing as the game-winner. The young forward’s performance earned him First Star of the Game honors and sparked discussions about his potential as a Calder Trophy contender for NHL’s Rookie of the Year.
Logan Cooley, a native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, played collegiate ice hockey for the University of Minnesota before deciding to forego his sophomore season and turn pro with the Arizona Coyotes. During the 2023 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships, Cooley recorded seven goals and seven assists in seven games, winning a bronze medal.
The Arizona Coyotes and Los Angeles Kings will face off again in another preseason game in Melbourne on Sunday, as part of the 2023 NHL Global Series. With Cooley’s impressive debut, fans and teammates alike are excited to see what the future holds for this promising young star.
