NHL News: Coyotes ink Derick Brassard, AHL framework announced, and Penguins GM responds to critics
Anthony Scultore
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The Arizona Coyotes and Derick Brassard have agreed to a one year deal for this season. At 33 years-old, Brassard feels his has more to give and signed on to a team friendly, $1.2 million contract.
NHL News: Coyotes sign Derick Brassard
“I think this team is heading in the right direction,” Brassard said yesterday. “It just made sense for me to come here. I’m looking forward to meeting my new teammates.”
After giving the Islanders some additional depth scoring last season, the Coyotes are looking for more from him this year. Brassard will be replacing former New York Rangers teammate, Derek Stepan who was traded to Ottawa recently.
Coyotes GM, Bill Armstrong noted that he likes Derick’s versatility as a center/wing and thinks he can play on the top two lines.
AHL approves framework for 2020-21 season
The AHL is the NHL’s premiere feeder system and integral for many clubs who have affiliations. Yesterday, league president Scott Howson released a statement regarding the upcoming AHL season.
“The American Hockey League Board of Governors has approved the structural framework for an AHL season that will begin on February 5, 2021.
“Details are still being worked out, but this step allows our teams and their National Hockey League partners to better determine their plans for the coming season. We look forward to dropping the puck on Feb. 5.”
Penguins GM, Jim Rutherford addresses critics
There’s a lot of believe, myself included, who think the Pittsburgh Penguins are done. Well, GM Jim Rutherford had a few things to say to those critics.
“Those people don’t follow us very closely, though. They aren’t close to our team. So they don’t know as much about our team. We are still Stanley Cup contenders.”
“When a team like us has a lot of success, these are just negative and jealous things that are said…Some people just don’t like the Penguins and are waiting to see us fail.”
The Athletic
At the end of the day, Rutherford likes where his Penguins are at and doesn’t believe they will be making anymore trades. He also believes that can still win the Cup.