Brandon Gormley accepts qualifying offer from Coyotes

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Defenseman Brandon Gormley has accepted his one-year, two-way qualifying offer from the Arizona Coyotes.

Once an exciting prospect, the former 13th overall draft selection will earn $850,500 at the NHL level. He'll have to clear waivers in order to be sent down, but will be reduced to a $67,500 salary should he see time in the American Hockey League.

"He's at a stage where it's either fish or cut bait, to be honest," General Manager Don Maloney told Craig Morgan of FOX Sports Arizona. "This offseason and training camp are very important for him. The good thing is, we have roster room available for him to get the job if he earns it."

Gormley made 27 starts for the Coyotes last season, chipping in four points.