November 17, 2007
Coyotes claim Bryzgalov off waivers TheFourthPeriod.com
The Phoenix Coyotes have claimed goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov off waivers from the Anaheim Ducks.
Bryzgalov posted a 2-3-1 record with a 2.55 goals-against-average and a .909 save percentage in nine games with the Ducks this season.
"We are excited to bring in a world class goaltender with a Stanley Cup on his resume," said Maloney. "At 27 years old, he is just entering his prime and we look forward to having him in our lineup."
The Ducks tried trading Bryzgalov but were unable to find a suitable trading partner.
Bryzgalov, who won the Stanley Cup with the Ducks last season, is making $1.36 million this season and can become an unrestricted free agent at season's end.
The native of Togliatti, Russia has earned a career NHL record of 26-23-0, with a 2.48 goals-against-average and .909 save percentage. He was originally drafted by Anaheim in the second round (44th overall) of the 2000 NHL Entry Draft.
A solid pick-up for the Coyotes, who desperately needed to get their hands on a capable No.1 goalie. With all the young up-and-coming fire power the Coyotes have up front, they lack a goalie-of-the-future and Bryzgalov might finally be the answer they've been looking for. Expect the team to try and sign him to a contract extension.
