Dave Tippett's contract has apparently helped speed up the Phoenix Coyotes' talks with goalie Mike Smith. According to the Arizona Republic, Tippett and the team's management met with Smith and his agent in Vancouver last week. Smith has made it clear he wanted Tippett to return. "I really have a clear idea where he stands, and I think he has a good idea of where we stand right now," Maloney said. "We're still kind of working the process to see if there's a gap to be bridged." Smith is scheduled to be a unrestricted free agent July 5.