Phoenix Coyotes 1996–2001

On August 16, 1996, Roenick was traded to the Phoenix Coyotes for Alexei Zhamnov and Craig Mills. As the number 27 he wore in Chicago was already worn by (and would eventually be retired for) Teppo Numminen, Roenick chose number 97, becoming the first player in NHL history to wear number 97.

In his first season with his new team, Roenick scored 29 goals and 69 points. In 1997–98, he finished second on the team with 56 points. In 1998–99, he led the Coyotes with 72 points and played in his fifth All-Star Game while also knocking 154 hits.

In 1999–2000, Roenick again led the Coyotes in scoring, this time racking up 34 goals and 78 points. He tallied 125 hits on the season and played in his sixth All-Star Game. In 2000–01, Roenick led the Coyotes with 30 goals and 76 points. He played 80 games and registered 133 hits.