

A tenacious Canadian forward who scrapped his way from undrafted free agent to a full-time NHL role through sheer will and scoring touch.
Michael Carcone's hockey story is a classic underdog tale. Overlooked in every round of the NHL draft, he refused to let that define his ceiling. He turned professional the hard way, signing American Hockey League contracts and becoming a prolific scorer for teams like the Utica Comets and Tucson Roadrunners. His game is one of relentless motor and a quick, accurate shot, assets that finally forced NHL front offices to pay attention. After bouncing between the AHL and brief NHL call-ups for several seasons, Carcone seized a full-time opportunity with the Arizona Coyotes, where he erupted for a career-high goal total. His journey embodies the persistence required to make it without the fanfare of draft day, proving that production and perseverance can eventually carve out a lasting spot on an NHL roster.
1981–1996
The first digital natives. Grew up with the internet, came of age during 9/11 and the 2008 crash. Highly educated, deeply indebted, slower to marry and buy houses. Redefined work, identity, and what it means to be an adult.
Michael was born in 1996, placing them squarely in the Millennials. The events that shaped this generation — the internet revolution, 9/11, and the 2008 financial crisis — shaped the world they entered and the choices available to them.
The biggest hits of 1996
#1 Movie
Independence Day
Best Picture
The English Patient
#1 TV Show
ER
The world at every milestone
Dolly the sheep cloned
September 11 attacks transform the world
Michael Jackson dies; Bitcoin created
Curiosity rover lands on Mars; Sandy Hook shooting
Russia annexes Crimea; Ebola outbreak in West Africa
#MeToo movement; solar eclipse crosses the US
He played his major junior hockey in the QMJHL for the Drummondville Voltigeurs and Victoriaville Tigres.
Carcone was part of the trade that sent star defenseman Jakob Chychrun from Arizona to Ottawa in 2023.
He led the entire AHL in shots on goal during his award-winning 2022-23 season.
“They told me I was too small, so I just worked to get a little faster, a little stronger.”