Observations:

January 2015 – Stone has found his niche with Arizona as a secondary PP option. He may have the upside for more, but it won’t be found with this organization, as they have several other options that are better. He may be one of those defensemen who gain fantasy value after six or seven years in the league. Dobber

September 2014 – Stone has firmly established himself as an NHL defenseman, finishing this past season with a 8-13-21 line. He should improve on those numbers with the Coyotes not resigning Derek Morris and Stone having a great opportunity to move up the depth chart and get more playing and power play time. With the Coyotes deep on defense, Stone’s name has popped up in several trade rumors since the 2013-14 season ended and with his size and booming point shot could fetch the team some help on offense. Keith Duggan

February 2014 – Stone has surpassed his career high of games played this season in the NHL with 47 and has already set career highs in offensive stats with eight goals(tied for the team lead for goals by a defenseman) and six assists. Unfortunately he still struggles in his own end at times and has found himself a healthy scratch or barely playing on some nights were he does dress and is a minus -13 on the season.  Might be a worth a pickup in deep leagues with him getting solid power play time when in the lineup but doesn’t have much worth other than that. Keith Duggan

April 2013 – Stone seems like he has cemented his claim on a full-time NHL gig in Phoenix with solid season. Stone has more offensive upside than he has shown but he has proven responsible in his game and sacrifices himself well with 46 blocks in 31 games. The organization would like to see him become more aggressive. With the growth of a couple blue line prospects this season, the Coyotes may be open to moving a veteran or two to open up room on the big club. Stone is not a player I’d advise drafting, but can be a useful pickup in a pinch when needed. Jason Banks

January 2013 – After scoring 22 points in 33 AHL games, Stone put himself in a head up battle with David Rundblad for a roster spot with the Coyotes. After an injury to vet Rostislav Klesla, that battle has continued into the NHL. Has some offensive upside if he becomes a regular. Jason Banks

June 2012 – Stone, who stands well above 6-feet, has good size and reach for the next level. He developed his game in junior with the Calgary Hitmen (WHL) as he is a composed two-way defender that plays all zones fairly well. Offensively he chips in with a strong shot from the point which is utilized in the power play and moves the puck smartly up ice to lead the breakout. Played in his second AHL season, but did get a taste of the NHL game as well this past year. Russ Bitely

Fantasy Outlook: C+

If Stone continues his improvement with skating and physical play, he could become a second or third pair defenseman in the NHL.

Footage:

Michael Stone throwing the mitts with Rampage (AHL) on 4/1/2011.

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