PHOENIX, Aug. 7 (UPI) -- Wayne Gretzky reportedly will take over the head coaching duties of the NHL Phoenix Coyotes.
The Arizona Republic reported Sunday an announcement could come as early as Monday.
Gretzky -- the NHL's all-time leading scorer and nine-time MVP -- is currently a managing partner with the team. He was first approached by General Manger Mike Barnett in May, but wanted to wait until the NHL had a new collective bargaining agreement in place.
Former Detroit Red Wings associate coach Barry Smith will reportedly be named one of Gretzky's two assistants. Former Phoenix player Rick Tocchet and interim head coach Rick Bowness are said to be likely candidates for the other assistant vacancy.
Bowness took over the bench on an interim basis when Bob Francis was fired during the 2003-04 season.
Gretzky was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1999 after a 20-year career.
