Arizona Coyotes bring back Zbynek Michalek for two years

Zbynek Michalek has left the Arizona Coyotes twice. Once by free agency, and once by trade.

Both times, he's returned.

Zybnek Michalekl signs in Arizona for 2 Years. #SigningSeason

— John Shannon (@JSportsnet) July 1, 2015

Michalek was dealt to the St. Louis Blues this season at the Trade Deadline in exchange for center prospect Maxim Letunov. With Michalek's return, the Coyotes really gave up nothing to land the prospect.

Zbynek has never blown up the scoresheet; his best year in his second run with the Coyotes was a two goal, eight assist campaign in 2012-13, but Michalek is still important for other reasons.

His totals likely benefit from partnering with Oliver Ekman-Larsson for much of last season, but Michalek is still a highly capable shot-blocker and penalty killer. Between Brad Richardson, Boyd Gordon, and Michalek, the penalty kill stands to improve over last season.

We will update this story once we receive official confirmation, as well as salary numbers.

UPDATE #1: (10:20 AM)

Coyotes have made it official. Still looking for numbers on his salary though.

OFFICIAL: #Coyotes Sign Defenseman Zbynek Michalek to Two-Year Contract MORE http://t.co/4jPY0sAn8b pic.twitter.com/R5kga8C7Lh

— Arizona Coyotes (@ArizonaCoyotes) July 1, 2015

UPDATE #2: (10:23 AM)

TSN's Bob McKenzie has the lowdown on Michalek's contract numbers.

“@DarrenDreger: Michalek 2 yrs with Yotes” $3.2M AAV.

— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) July 1, 2015