Patrick O'Sullivan News

GLENDALE, ARIZONA --- Phoenix Coyotes General Manager Don Maloney announced today the Coyotes have assigned forward Patrick O’Sullivan to the Portland Pirates, the Coyotes American Hockey League affiliate (AHL).

O'Sullivan scored two goals and four points over 24 games with the Coyotes. He has no fantasy hockey value while in the minors.

The play of forwards Patrick O’Sullivan and Kyle Chipchura likely makes them front-runners to survive the final cut.

O'Sullivan impressed enough during camp to earn a roster spot. Last season the enigmatic forward only scored two goals and eight points in 31 games, split between the Carolina Hurricanes and Minnesota Wild. The left wing did however prove he was too good for the AHL as he potted 19 goals and 48 points in 36 games with the Houston Aeros.

"Both played very well in camp for us," coach Dave Tippett said from Calgary, where the Coyotes play a preseason game Thursday against the Flames. "They certainly are going to be two guys who are going to make decisions very hard."

O'Sullivan hasn't been guaranteed a roster spot but has impressed during camp. Last season the enigmatic forward only scored two goals and eight points in 31 games, split between the Carolina Hurricanes and Minnesota Wild. The left wing did however prove he was too good for the AHL as he potted 19 goals and 48 points in 36 games with the Houston Aeros.

“I need to have a good year in the NHL this year. I’m well aware of that,” said O’Sullivan, who signed a one-year, two-way contract with Phoenix in the off-season.

With various departures in Phoenix, O'Sullivan could earn a spot if he can prove reliable at both ends of the ice. Last season the enigmatic forward only scored two goals and eight points in 31 games, split between the Carolina Hurricanes and Minnesota Wild. The left wing did however prove he was too good for the AHL as he potted 19 goals and 48 points in 36 games with the Houston Aeros.

19+ | Please play responsibly! | Terms and Conditions apply