Phoenix Coyotes Preseason Countdown: Mikkel Boedker Edition

A mere 26 days separate today and the Phoenix Coyotes' 2013 preseason opener against the Los Angeles Kings. Today we look at a player who scored 26 points last season but remains an unsigned RFA as August wanes.

Coming off a magical playoff run that included back-to-back game-winning goals in the 2011-2012 Western Conference Quarter Final, expectations for Boedker were high. The words "breakout season" were uttered many a time once the 2013 season finally began.

One could argue last season was the best of the young Dane's career as he set a career high in assists (19), as well as scoring the second highest point total of his career (26), despite playing only 48 games. The 23-year-old also set career highs in power play goals (3) and assists (4).

The former first rounder is currently without a contract as he has yet to come to terms on a new agreement with the Coyotes. As a tendered RFA, he must sign (with the Coyotes or another team if he is traded) a contract by December 1 in order to be eligible to play in the 2013-2014 NHL season.

Recent contract talks have been described a status quo, which may continue until the threat of missed training camp time factors into the equation.

If Boedker remains unsigned past the opening of camp on September 11, it wouldn't be the first time a young forward missed camp time as an unsigned RFA. Kyle Turris was unsigned through camp, preseason and part of the regular season until coming to an agreement on a new contract nine days before the December 1 deadline. However, Fox Sports Arizona's Craig Morgan does not believe number 89 will follow Turris' path.