Sullivan signs with Coyotes - 07-04-12

The Penguins have already suffered one loss as a result of #PariseWatch.

Former Penguins left winger Steve Sullivan has agreed to a one-year contract with the Coyotes worth $1.85 million.

In 79 games last season, Sullivan, 37 scored 48 points (17 goals, 31 assists). He joined the Penguins as an unrestricted free agent last season when he signed a contract worth $1.5 million.

Penguins management credited Sullivan with helping the Penguins improve their power play. Last season, it was scored on 19.7 percent of its chances, fifth-best in the NHL. The previous season, the power play was successful on 15.8 percent of its chances, 25th best in the NHL.

-EN Says: The Penguins were belived to have been relying on Sullivan as a plan B if their pursuit of Zach Parise wasn't successful. Eventually, Sullivan had to move on and take care of himself.

If the Penguins can't land Parise, it'll be interesting to see what they do in terms of finding a top-six winger. There's not much left on the free agent market. But trades are possibilty, especially for a team like the Penguins which is load with with defensive prospects.

Sullivan will fit in with the Coyotes who lost left wigner Ray Whitney in free agency earlier this week. And at $1.85 million for only one year, this is a contract which won't hamstring the Coyotes and their tenuous financial situation.

There are always injury concerns with Sullivan, but he is coming off a season where he nearly played every game.

(Photo: Christian Petersen/Getty Images)