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Wayne Gretzky has stepped down as the coach of the Phoenix Coyoes. Rumored to take over is former Dallas Stars coach Dave Tippett. (AP Images)

NHL futures odds are a great way to get an early jump on the season, especially when hockey greats like Wayne Gretzky makes the news by announcing his resignation as coach of the Phoenix Coyotes. Over at Bodog Sportsbook, the Coyotes are listed at 85/1 odds to win the 2009-10 Stanley Cup.

Gretzky made the announcement today on his website, adding that he had hoped there would have been a solution to the team's ownership problems.

"This was a difficult decision that I've thought long and hard about," Gretzky writes on his website. "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."

Read the full statement from Wayne Gretzky.

Rumor has it that former Dallas Stars coach Dave Tippett may be stepping in as the new coach of the Phoenix Coyotes. The Coyotes have scheduled a press conference for 6 p.m. EDT.

The 2009-10 NHL regular season starts on Oct. 1with the Coyotes playing their first game on Oct. 3 against the Los Angeles Kings. Get all your NHL futures odds and NHL betting lines at Bodog Sportsbook.