WEYBURN - The Richardson Pioneer Weyburn Red Wings were busy with some trades in the past few days, right after the roster freeze for Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League teams was lifted.
Team captain Braden Birnie was traded to the Steinbach Pistons (MJHL) in exchange for 03 defenseman Blake Norris, 03 forward Ethan Clements and future considerations.
Beau Larson was traded to the Virden Capitals (MJHL), and Troy Hamilton and Nick Dobson were traded to the Winkler Flyers (MJHL) in exchange for 03 defenseman Nolan Henderson. The Wings acquired Maxwell Mazu from the OCN Blizzard (MJHL) for a player development fee.
Nik Sombrowski was traded to Notre Dame in exchange for a first, third and fourth round pick in the 2022 draft of 06 players.
The Red Wings also acquired a first round pick in the 2022 draft of ‘06 players, bringing their total to three first round picks, in exchange for a first and second round pick in the 2022 draft of ‘07 players.
“It is tough to see guys like Braden Birnie go from the team, but these trades were an opportunity for these players to compete in playoffs or in a championship,” said Cody Mapes, head coach for the Red Wings. “We try to take care of the players first, and take into consideration their priorities and goals for the future.”
Both Clements and Norris were on the ice for the Red Wings, during the Tuesday night home game against the Yorkton Terriers.
“They are both 18 years old, and will give us more offense ability. It will also be more opportunity for these players to have time with our team, as they will have another two-and-a-half years of play time in the league.”
Mapes said it is important that the Red Wings players and coaches continue to do their best for the rest of the season. “We want to continue to compete. We have to take things one step at a time, and keep on believing in ourselves.”
