John Muckler, left, and Wayne Gretzky toiled several years together as a coach and a player, respectively, with the Edmonton Oilers and New York Rangers. (Paul Chiasson/Canadian Press)

John Muckler was hired Tuesday by the Phoenix Coyotes as a senior adviser to general manager Don Maloney.

Muckler, 74, hasn't worked in the NHL since June 18, 2007, when he was relieved of his duties as GM of the Ottawa Senators.

But the Midland, Ont., native has spent more than 50 years in the pro ranks.

"His extensive hockey experience and wealth of knowledge will be an incredible asset to the organization," Maloney said in a statement.

Muckler won five Stanley Cups with the Edmonton Oilers, as an assistant coach (1984, 1985, 1987, 1988) and as head coach (1990).

He later served as GM and head coach of the Buffalo Sabres before joining Ottawa on June 12, 2002.

Muckler posted a 276–288–84 record as head coach of the Oilers, Sabres and New York Rangers.

The move to Phoenix reunites him with former Oilers and Rangers superstar Wayne Gretzky, now head coach of the Coyotes.

With files from the Associated Press