The Pirates are one-step closer to finalizing their roster as several players took part in their first practice on Monday since being assigned to Portland by the Phoenix Coyotes.

Forwards Andy Miele and Marc-Anthoine Pouliot and defensemen Maxim Goncharov and Chris Summers were on the ice for the nearly two hour practice at the Civic Center.

Also on the ice were forward Brett MacLean and goaltender Curtis McElhinney as they wait to find out if they clear waivers.

MacLean, McElhinney and defenseman Nathan Oystrick, who hasn’t officially been assigned to Portland, were placed on waivers on Tuesday, if left unclaimed by noon on Wednesday they will be officially assigned to the Pirates.

To make room for the additions, the Pirates have released Dylan King, Scott Fleming, Blair Riley and Donny Maloney back to their ECHL clubs.

In other transaction moves on Tuesday, the Coyotes signed forward Evan Bloodoff to an entry-level contract. Bloodoff had 44 points (22g, 22a) in 72 games last season with the Kelowna Rockets.

Despite signing an entry-level deal, where he plays this season is still hasn’t been determined as several players including Ryan Hollweg, Igor Gongalsky and Ashton Rome fight for the one or two final roster spots on the team.

The Pirates expect to have their roster in place by Thursday before departing on Friday for Bridgeport, Connecticut when the they open the season on Saturday night against the Sound Tigers.