BizNasty Stays for 2 More Years & A Familiar Friend on Waivers

Yesterday the Coyotes announced that they have extended Paul Bissonnette’s contract by two years. Biznasty has been a great teammate during his stay in Phoenix, and more importantly has been a popular hockey figure through twitter. I for one am happy to see another commitment to a good person and teammate. Don Maloney has preached the team concept in the players he acquires. And for once, a player commits to working on his game and committing to his team. Bissonnette has always done what has been asked of him, with no complaints. The job of an enforcer in the NHL is not an easy one, but someone has to do it. It is good to have him back for 2 more years, and combined with the always agitating Raffi Torres, should make opponents dread the Coyotes on the schedule. Congrats Paul, and we all look forward to your tweets and hard work on the ice.

Now to an interesting name put on waivers, Steven Reinprecht. The Coyotes lack offensive depth at center on the NHL level. Reinprecht is not an explosive offensive player, but was just 4 goals shy of 20 goals two seasons ago. While playing with the Coyotes, Reinprecht never had all star type numbers, but consistently contributed to the offense. Similar to Daymond Langkow, Reinprecht showed chemistry with top scorer Shane Doan. Reinprecht was a good voice in the young Coyotes locker room, and would have a fine time transitioning into the new Coyotes philosophy. At this stage of Reinprecht’s career, there is no arguing that he is not a top six forward. He does however have the skill to be plugged into the top 2 lines when needed to break out of an offensive drought. The power play could always use another offensively gifted playmaker, and turning to Patrick O’Sullivan proves the desperation of the coaching staff. Reinprecht is expected to be place on re-entry waivers after he clears waivers, and then could be picked up for 1 million this season. With the Kyle Turris situation looking to have a nasty ending, it certainly cant hurt to bring in a familiar face to help.