Holy Jumpin! Tyson Nash Has A Big Presence to Fill

When Darren “Panger” Pang announced he was leaving Phoenix Coyotes TV after 4 years this summer, hockey hearts were breaking over the valley. As one of the most beloved announcers, Pang had the energy, enthusiasm and the most entertainment bang for the buck. Not only did he know his stuff after his short time in the NHL with the Chicago Blackhawks, he had personality plus. His infectious trademark phrase “holy jumpin’” became a staple during Coyotes telecasts and he was a perfect complement to Dave Strader and Todd Walsh’s more “journalistic” style. I, along with many others were sad to see him go.

Enter Tyson Nash. Also a veteran of the NHL and the Phoenix Coyotes, Nash spent some time as a radio color analyst for the team. This season he has been upgraded to the TV spot alongside Dave Strader.

One would imagine that Nash was/is apprehensive to be trying to fill Darren Pang’s big shoes. During the most recently televised game that I saw he seemed a bit cautious and reserved on his commentary. Nerves? Maybe. Just a different type of personality? More than likely. And just as we have to get used to a different personality, he has to get used to being on the small screen. The exciting part of all this will be watching his development, just as we watch the younger Yotes develop over a season.

As in life, the only constant is change and the same goes for the Phoenix Coyotes. I am embracing the change and welcoming “Nasher” into our dysfunctional little family…we’ll be watching and good luck!