The occasional hikes and dinners at nice restaurants have been part of Liam O'Brien's experience in his first season as an Arizona Coyote, because those things are a must for folks new to the area. But there is a season to play, and O'Brien is much more about preparation from game to game, practice to practice.
It's paid off, as the longtime minor league player has carved out a role and a fairly regular place in the Coyotes' lineup as a fourth-line forward who will drop the gloves for a fight in order to bring energy to and protect his teammates.