Wayne Gretzky has resigned as head coach and director of hockey operations for the Phoenix Coyotes due to the financial turmoil surrounding the team.

“This was a difficult decision that I’ve thought long and hard about,” Gretzky said in a statement. “We all hoped there would be a resolution earlier this month to the Coyotes ownership situation, but the decision is taking longer than expected.

“Since both remaining bidders have made it clear that I don’t fit into their future plans, I approached general manager Don Maloney and suggested he begin looking for someone to replace me as coach. Don has worked hard and explored many options. I think he has made an excellent choice, and so now it’s time for me to step aside.”

Plain and simple, Wayne Gretzky IS hockey. The Phoenix Coyotes are damn fools for letting this guy go.