Ilya Bryzgalov claimed off waivers by Phoenix Coyotes

The Coyotes, coming off major shutout losses, wasted no time in picking up Bryzgalov and starting him against the L.A. Kings. It is expected Bryzgalov will challenge for the starter spot in Phoenix, where the revolving goaltender position has been cause for concern. His main competitors for the spot will be Alex Auld and Mikael Tellqvist; neither has been stellar this season so far.

Ilya was put on waivers by Anaheim as part of GM Brian Burke fulfilling a promise to his player. Burke told Bryzgalov he deserved a shot at being the #1 goaltender on a team and with Jean-Sebastien Giguere locked in for a few more years, that chance wasn’t going to come as a Duck. It is also expected the move was made to allow coveted Swedish ‘tender Jonas Hiller to gain more NHL experience as Giguere’s backup.

“We are very happy for Ilya,” said Ducks GM Brian Burke. ”He’s a great kid who deserves a chance to be a starting NHL goaltender. We thank him for all he has accomplished in a Ducks uniform, and we wish him well with Phoenix.”