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Amid distractions, Jokinen looks to help Coyotes end skid

Feb 16, 2009 - 2:51 PM Edmonton (28-23-4) at Phoenix (25-27-5), 9:30 p.m. EST

GLENDALE, Arizona (Ticker) -- The Phoenix Coyotes are struggling, and may entertain offers for their most prolific offseason acquisition.

Amid many trade rumors, Olli Jokinen hopes to shake off the distractions and help the Coyotes end their two-game losing streak when they host the Edmonton Oilers on Monday.

Jokinen, who has one year left on his contract, has been the subject of many trade talks involving the financially strapped Phoenix franchise.

The veteran center has recorded 17 goals and 19 assists this season. His production, however, has plummeted, and he currently ranks 36th in points among NHL centers.

Last season, the 30-year-old Finn registered 34 goals and 37 assists with the Florida Panthers, who traded his rights in a draft-day deal. His streak of scoring 30-plus goals is also in dire jeopardy to end at three seasons.

Offense has not been the only major problem for the Coyotes, who have also dropped eight of their last nine.

With Saturday's 7-5 loss to the Calgary Flames, Phoenix has surrendered four or more goals in four of its last five contests.

Meanwhile, Edmonton has won two in a row - including Saturday's 3-2 shootout triumph over the Los Angeles Kings. That victory successfully kicked off a four-game road trip.

The Oilers have had a tough time generating offense on a consistent basis, scoring two or fewer goals in five of their last seven.