Coyotes training camp opens without Gretzky

GLENDALE, Ariz. - Wayne Gretzky's status with the Phoenix Coyotes remains up in the air.

The team's coach was not present Saturday morning for the start of training camp.

A spokesman for the Coyotes said Gretzky's contractual situation with the team remains unclear because of bankruptcy proceedings. Assist coach Ulf Samuelsson will run the training camp on a interim basis.

During a hearing in court Friday a lawyer for the NHL said that Gretzky was involved in `delicate negotiations' over his contract.

Gretzky has been coach of the Coyotes since 2005. He makes US$8 million - far more than any other NHL coach.

• 

  Phoenix Coyotes head coach Wayne Gretzky instructs his team against the San Jose Sharks during the first period of an NHL hockey game in San Jose, Calif. on Thursday, Jan. 29, 2009. (AP / Marcio Jose Sanchez)