Keith Ballard was an elite defenseman drafted by the Buffalo Sabres in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft. But before he made his NHL debut he was traded twice: once to the Colorado Avalanche, and then to the Phoenix Coyotes. Early comparisons of Ballard projected him to be a puck rushing defenseman in the mold of Phil Housley.
More From Editorials
Ballard played collegiate hockey at the University of Minnesota for three years, and also had time in United States Hockey League.
Ballard’s initial year in Phoenix was considered a success, with 8 g and 39 points while scoring three short-handed goals in 82 games.