NFL superstar defensive end J.J. Watt announced his decision to sign a two-year contract with the Arizona Cardinals Monday morning while the Coyotes were prepping for an 11:30 a.m. practice.
By the time Watt's announcement hit Twitter at 10:46 a.m., players' phones were tucked away as they geared up for a high-tempo skate that lasted roughly one hour.
Head coach Rick Tocchet and the team caught wind of the breaking news at around 12:30 pm., once they were off the ice.
Tocchet's initial reaction sparked a joke. He humored a possible lineup change for Wednesday's game against the Kings.