Tests show broken bone in ankle
Bob McManaman

Danny Markov was grounded in more ways than one on Monday. First, the Coyotes defenseman learned, as expected, that he will be sidelined for at least five weeks after tests revealed he has a broken bone in his left ankle. 

Then he got stuck at the team's Scottsdale training facility without a ride home. 

"(Andrei) Nazarov borrowed my car and dropped it off, but he left with my freaking keys, the big jerk," Markov grumbled. "This is not so good a day for me." 

It's not so good for the Coyotes, who most likely will only regain the services of the energetic Markov if they advance to the second round of the Stanley Cup playoffs, a place the franchise hasn't been in 15 years. 

"We have no other option other than to deal with it," coach Bobby Francis said. "I feel bad for Danny. He's had an outstanding year and he's obviously been an integral part of our team. The important thing for him now is that he goes about his rehabilitation in the proper manner. 

"We welcomed Danny Focht to the team today and we're just going to make it work." 

Markov suffered the injury Sunday night during the Coyotes' 4-0 victory over the Los Angeles Kings when he slid into end boards while racing for a puck with Bryan Smolinski. The injury won't require surgery, according to the team. Markov, though, said the foot remains swollen, and further tests may be needed. 

"Who knows how long it's going to be?" said Markov, who had set career highs this season in goals (six), assists (30) and points (36) and ranked 10th in the NHL in total hits. "It's very disappointing because the team has been playing so well and we're almost in the playoffs. To leave now, with just 10 games left, makes me very (ticked) off. 

"But that's hockey. I just have to work hard and try to get back when I can. Hopefully, I'll play again this season. If not, we have good enough defensemen here to carry us. They're good, young guys and (Teppo Numminen) is a great leader." 

The Coyotes, 10-2-2-1 in their past 15 games, also are without defenseman Ossi Vaananen. He is expected to miss four more games because of a bruised shoulder. 

"We've relied on our defense all year; it's been our entire team concept," Francis said. "We're just going to have to ask more from certain individuals, who will have to step up and assume more responsibilities. The forwards will have to do a little more, too. We'll have to make up for it collectively." 

The 6-foot-6 Focht, 24, will play a pivotal role as the No. 6 defenseman. He has appeared in only five NHL games, all this season, since the Coyotes made him a first-round pick six years ago. 

"He's made some huge strides," Francis said. "We moved other guys and he assumed the No. 1 role down in Springfield. His play and his confidence have really come on. At this stage in his career, he should be ready and willing to play in this league."