Hull, who was briefly Gretzky's right winger, only lasted five games and only scored one assist before retiring.
Gretzky made his coaching debut on October 5, 2005, the opening night of the 2005–06 NHL season, losing 3–2 to the Vancouver Canucks.
Gretzky took an indefinite leave of absence as coach on December 17, 2005 to care for his ill mother in Brantford, Ontario.
Assistant coach Rick Tocchet assumed the position until Gretzky's return on December 28.
Coyotes' CEO Jeff Shumway announced on June 5, 2006 that Gretzky has agreed to a new five-year contract to remain as head coach.