New NHL Includes Coach Gretzky

As expected, Wayne Gretzky is the new coach of the Phoenix Coyotes.

His appointment renews the debate over whether superstar players make good coaches. The consensus is that they do not, backed by the evidence of many high-profile failures: Ted Williams' sorry episode as manager of the Red Sox; Magic Johnson's brief fling with the Lakers; Rocket Richard's aborted attempt with the Nordiques.

But it's worth noting that a few Hall of Fame athletes have done well in a suit: Larry Robinson and Jacques Lemaire with the Devils; Mike Ditka with the Bears.

Gretzky has already learned one important lesson of the coaching game: surround yourself with good assistants. His team will include Rick Tocchet, Rick Bowness and Barry Smith.