Arizona Coyotes claim Alexander Burmistrov off waivers

According to Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet the Arizona Coyotes have claimed Alexander Burmistrov.

The centre was originally drafted by the Atlanta Thrashers in the 1st round (8th overall) back in 2010.  He played one full season in Atlanta before the team relocated to Winnipeg in 2011-12.  He played the next year in Winnipeg before splitting 2012-13 between the Jets and IceCaps.  He left for Russia for two seasons in the KHL before returning in 2015-16 where he had seven goals and 14 assists in 81 games.  This year has been a disappointment for him playing in just 23 games while adding just two assists.

Coach Maurice spoke about Burmistrov being claimed after the Jets skated today in Tampa:

Paul Maurice:  His thoughts on what didn’t work out for Burmistrov in Winnipeg.  Was he disappointed in Burmistrov’s play?  Is it tough to ask players from outside North America to play a bottom six role? (Audio courtesy of TSN 1290 Winnipeg).

Arizona Coyotes GM John Chayka released this statement on picking up Burmistrov:

“We are pleased to acquire Alexander through the waiver process,” General Manager John Chayka said in a statement released by the team. “He’s someone our scouts identified as having greater potential than he has currently shown. We’re hopeful a change will help his game.”

It won’t be long before Burmistrov will have an opportunity to play against his former club as the Jets will be in Arizona on January 13th and then the Coyotes come to town on the 18th.