Some thought the Thunderbirds should look to trade for a new goalie at the trade deadline. Their decision not to is already looking like the right one.
Seattle acquired Austin Strand from the Red Deer Rebels in exchange for Brandon Schuldhaus, who did not return to the team following the holiday break.
Last season, Seattle struggled when their top three centers left for the World Junior Championships. This year, they're much better equipped to handle any absences.
Over the weekend, the first-place Prince George Cougars put the rest of the league on notice when they acquired defenseman Brendan Guhle from the Prince Albert Raiders.
Mathew Barzal discusses his time with the New York Islanders, his return to the Thunderbirds, and what he expects out of himself and the team this year.
The New York Islanders announced Wednesday morning that they would be returning top prospect Mathew Barzal to the Seattle Thunderbirds for the 2016-17 season.
The Thunderbirds reduced their roster to three overage players by sending Cavin Leth to the Prince Albert Raiders in exchange for forward Zack Andrusiak and a draft pick.
Seattle's early struggles can be attributed to their special teams, where they currently rank last in the league on both the power play and penalty kill.
Last year, Mathew Barzal centered the Thunderbirds' top line, often playing between and creating plays for other NHL draft picks. Next season, he’ll be expected to have the same impact, assuming he returns to Seattle.
In Tuesday’s annual CHL Import Draft, the Thunderbirds selected energetic 17-year-old forward Sami Moilanen of Finland with the 49th overall selection.
