Pirri was originally drafted by the Blackhawks in 2009 and played in Chicago for three and a half years. He has bounced around the NHL since then and spent most of his time with Vegas in the AHL. This past season, he had 35 points (15G / 20A) in 38 games with Chicago (AHL) and will be a fringe NHLer with the Blackhawks.
Despite skating on the top power-play in Tuesday’s practice it ultimately looks like Tomas Nosek will skate on the third line in Game 1. Pirri will sit for the sixth time in the Golden Knights last eight games.
Pirri has been in the lineup for the last six games but will sit tonight with Ryan Carpenter (undisclosed) returning to action.
Pirri missed Wednesday’s practice with an illness and will be game-time decision vs. the Maple Leafs. Pirri scored in his return to the lineup on Tuesday and has nine goals and five assists (14 points) in 18 games with Vegas.
Pirri burst onto the scene after being called-up from the AHL but has been held pointless for the last six games and played just 11:42 TOI on Tuesday. Pirri is expected to be replaced by Oscar Lindberg.
The Golden Knights were forced to send Pirri to Chicago last week due to a numbers crunch but was always expected to return quickly. The 27-year-old has been unbelievable at both levels this season—nine points (6G / 3A) in seven NHL games and 42 points (18G / 24A) in 29 AHL contests.
Despite tearing it up during his call-up, scoring six goals with three assists (nine points), Pirri returns to the AHL with Max Pacioretty ready to return on Friday. This is simply asset management from the Golden Knights as Pirri does not have to pass through waivers to get to the AHL. Vegas could try and move a roster player to try and call Pirri back up in the near future.
Pirri played in the final three games before the Christmas break, scoring three goals on nine shots with one assist. The 27-year-old has been outstanding this season, picking up 41 points (17G / 24A) in 28 AHL games. Pirri will likely continue skating in the top-6 while Max Pacioretty is out.
With Max Pacioretty going on IR, Pirri will get another shot with Vegas. The 27-year-old has been absolutely dominant in the AHL this season, leading all players in points (41) while ranking second in goals (17). Pirri could replace Pacioretty and skate in the top-6 immediately.
