Craig Cunningham’s playing career may be over, but the 26-year-old is staying in the game.
The Arizona Coyotes have signed Cunningham to a two-year pro-scouting contract, general manager John Chayka announced on Wednesday.
Cunningham, a centreman who last suited up for the Tucson Roadrunners, the Coyotes’ AHL affiliate, survived a medical emergency on Nov. 19. His lower left leg was amputated as a result.
The native of Trail, B.C., played 63 career NHL games between the Coyotes and the Boston Bruins, who selected him 97th overall in the 2010 NHL draft.
In addition to his scouting duties, Cunningham will assist the Coyotes in a player-development capacity.
In a press release, Chayka described Cunningham as a “smart, hard-working player with an incredible passion for the game.”
“We’re confident that he will bring those same qualities to the Coyotes in his new role and that he will be an invaluable asset to our organization,” the GM said. “We look forward to Craig helping us in several areas and are excited that he is staying with the club.”
“I’m very excited to begin the next chapter of my life with the Coyotes,” Cunningham said in the release. “I’m very grateful to John Chayka, Dave Tippett, the Coyotes and Roadrunners organizations, and all of the great fans across Arizona for the incredible support I’ve received over the past year. I’m looking forward to helping the Coyotes and I can’t wait to get started in my new role.”
[relatedlinks]
