Breaking: Coyotes release statement after cutting their captain, get roasted by their fans.

Earlier today we reported that the Arizona Coyotes had made the controversial decision to cut ties with their captain, veteran forward Shane Doan, and now the team has released an official statement.

From the Coyotes:

"After serious consideration, we have decided to not offer Shane Doan a contract for the upcoming season. The time has come for us to move on and to focus on our young, talented group of players and our very bright future. This was a very difficult decision given what Shane has done for the Coyotes and his unparalleled importance to the organization. With that said, this is necessary to move us forward as a franchise.

"On behalf of the entire organization, I would like to sincerely thank Shane for everything he's done for the Coyotes on and off the ice the past 21 years. Shane is a Valley icon who had an incredible career and was one of the best captains to ever play in the NHL.

"Shane deserves an enormous amount of credit for keeping the Coyotes in the Valley and for growing the game of hockey in Arizona. He is beloved by our fans, corporate partners and the media and has been a tremendous leader for us in the community, and a great role model for kids. We wish him and his family all the best in the future. He will be a member of our Pack forever."

Despite the very kind words for Doan in the Coyotes official release, the reaction from the fan base has been incredibly negative. Here are some examples of the reactions today:

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Needless to say this is not what an organization that already struggles to draw fans wants to hear from their existing fan base.