Coyotes sign Brett Hextall

The Phoenix Coyotes on Friday signed forward Brett Hextall, son of former NHL goaltender Ron Hextall, to an entry-level contract.

Hextall, a sixth-round pick (No. 159) in the 2008 Entry Draft, appeared in 39 games as a junior with the University of North Dakota this season, scoring 13 goals and finishing with 29 points and 63 penalty minutes. In three seasons at North Dakota, Hextall led his team to two Frozen Fours while recording 39 goals, 81 points and 242 penalty minutes in 115 games with the Fighting Sioux.

If he makes it to the NHL, Brett Hextall could become the second fourth-generation player in League history. Ron Hextall, who played 13 NHL seasons and won the Conn Smythe Trophy with Philadelphia in 1987, is now the assistant general manager with the Los Angeles Kings. Brett’s grandfather is former NHL forward Bryan Hextall Jr.; his great uncle, Dennis Hextall, spent several seasons with the Minnesota North Stars; and his great-grandfather. Bryan Hextall Sr., scored the Cup-winning goal for the New York Rangers in 1940.

Blake Geoffrion of the Nashville Predators became the first fourth-generation NHL player when he was called up in February. Geoffion’s grandfather, Bernie "Boom Boom" Geoffrion, and great-grandfather, Howie Morenz, are both in the Hockey Hall of Fame.