Coyotes Claim Gilbert Brule Off Waivers from Oilers

The Phoenix Coyotes announced today that they have claimed center Gilbert Brule off re-entry waivers from the Edmonton Oilers. Phoenix will now be responsible for half of his $1.85 million salary. In 27 games this season with Edmonton's AHL affiliate in Oklahoma City, Brule has eight goals and 10 assists for 18 points. He has not appeared in an NHL game so far this season. Not a bad depth move for the Coyotes, as Brule has some playmaking ability and can play a physical game from time to time. However, inconsistency and injuries have dogged him throughout his NHL career and have kept from developing into the high-scoring forward he was projected to be when Columbus drafted him sixth overall in 2005. Perhaps the change of scenery can help Brule get his career back on track and improve his game.