Charlie Coyle Gets The Call

The Minnesota Wild have called up Charlie Coyle.

The Boston Hockey Blog first reported the news and was later confirmed by Michael Russo of the Minnesota Star Tribune. “Coyle is on his way to Phoenix to likely make his NHL debut Monday against the Coyotes,” writes Russo.

The 20-year old forward is having a solid rookie campaign with the American Hockey League’s Houston Aeros. He’s recorded 14 goals and 10 assists in 44 games this year.

Coyle left Boston University after the first half of 2011-12 season and joined the Sea Dogs following the 2012 World Junior Hockey Championship. He made quite an impact with Saint John, registering 15 goals and 23 assists in 23 regular season games. He then scored 15 goals and added 19 helpers in 17 playoff games, earning him the QMJHL playoff MVP award.

The Sea Dogs were loaded with talent last year but Coyle really stood out. He seemed like he was the most pro ready player on the 2011-12 Saint John squad, and many predicted a year ago that he’d see some time in the NHL this year.

If he does play Friday for the Wild, he’ll join Yann Sauve, Simon Despres, Mike Hoffman, and Jonathan Huberdeau as former Sea Dogs to appear in a NHL game. Despres (Pittsburgh) and Huberdeau (Florida) have been playing in The Show since the lockout ended.

Best of luck to Sir Charles. Somewhere, a tear rolls down Jack Parker’s face.

Photo: Marc Henwood/Station Nation