Bunting’s strong start brings him back to the NHL

Story by soogreyhounds.com  |  Photo provided by the Arizona Coyotes 

Averaging over a point per game to start the 2020-21 AHL season has paid dividends for former Greyhound MICHAEL BUNTING.

After sixteen games with the Tucson Roadrunners (AHL) where he led the club with nineteen points, Bunting was recently recalled to the the NHL’s Arizona Coyotes in time for their final game of March.
He started that assignment by playing in 15 minutes and 4 seconds of action while putting together a two-point performance with an even 1 goal and 1 assist in a loss to Colorado.
The Wrap:  Bunting makes his case in Colorado  |  Bunting scores in season debut

Since then the 25-year old has appeared in three games with the big club to whom he was drafted by in the 4th Round of the 2014 NHL Entry Draft.

This now brings the Scarborough, ON native’s NHL stats line to eight total games played, where he has 2 goals and 1 assist during that time.  Two points in the three games this season.

It’s been a few years since Bunting last enjoyed an opportunity like this.
He last suited up with the Coyotes a couple seasons ago (2018-19) when he made his NHL debut and ultimately played a total of five games before completing the season in Tucson.

Speaking of Tucson, the AHL is a place that has proved to be a comfortable surrounding for for the Greyhounds alumni.

After beginning his professional career the Coyotes then affilliate in Springfield in 2015-16, Bunting has progressively improved his numbers over the last six years.
Following up on a career best 49 points last year, Michael was off to a solid start this season before getting the call up.

So much so, he was named the CCM/AHL Player of the Week back in mid-February after recording four goals (2 game winners) and three assists in 3 games played.
Michael Bunting named AHL Player of the Week

Which brings him to where he is now.  In the NHL showcasing his talents under another former Greyhound, Head Coach Rick Tocchet.

OTHER RELATED LINKS;
NHL Profile  |  AHL Profile  |  OHL Profile
• Roadrunners announce Leadership Group
• Michael Bunting relishes time in Tucson, even though he can’t wait to leave for the NHL

HOUNDS HIGHLIGHTS:
Played two seasons with the Greyhounds (2013-14 and 2014-15) where he tallied 52 goals and 64 assists, good for 116 points in 105 career regular season games played … Recorded 14 goals and 6 assists (20 points) in 23 post-season games … Was Assistant Captain with the club in 2014-15 … Recorded his 1st-career hat trick on Wednesday, October 23, 2013 vs Sarnia … Scored his 1st-career OHL goal on Saturday, September 21, 2013 vs Sudbury … Committed to the Program on September 3, 2013 … Originally selected in the 9th Round of the 2013 OHL Priority Selection