"I talked a lot with Henrik the last couple days and I think the move is good for him," Tippett said. "He's going to an organization that knows him well. … It's probably a move that benefits everybody."
The Coyotes drafted Samuelsson in the first round of the 2012 NHL Draft, with the 27th overall pick, shortly after Samuelsson led the Edmonton Oil Kings to the Memorial Cup title.
Injuries slowed Samuelsson's pro career and he played just three games for the Coyotes in 2014-15. He was playing for the Tucson Roadrunners of the AHL at the time of the trade.
Tippett and Henrik's father Ulf are good friends dating to their NHL playing days.
"I've known Henrik since he was in a stroller," Tippett said. "That's a long time. But he's struggled with some injuries. Last year was a major injury for him with his ankle. I think he's struggled to get back up to speed again. Sometimes a change just gives you that spark that you need."
Samuelsson, who played youth hockey in Scottsdale while his dad was an assistant coach with the Coyotes, notched two goals and one assist in 20 games with Tucson this season.
In exchange for Samuelsson, the Coyotes received forward Mitchell Moroz, whom Edmonton drafted five picks after the Coyotes selected Samuelsson in 2012. Ironically, Moroz and Samuelsson were teammates with the Edmonton Oil Kings on their championship team.
