The Blazers were en route to Portland today so I didn't have a chance to update....
Obviously the news about the trade is out (see below). I think the Blazers were looking for more production with their 20 year-old spots. This move should begin to address it.
In Thomas Frazee, the Blazers get a big-bodied forward who's scored 13 goals, added 24 assists for 37 points in 33 games.
It will be Frazee's fifth WHL team. He started in Portland before being traded to Medicine Hat. He spent last two seasons with the Moose Jaw Warriors before being traded to Regina just before the regular season.
I think the Blazers will give Frazee a chance to come in and play with some good players - he may even slide into the top line with Jordan DePape serving four more games of his five game suspension.
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The suspension announcements didn't really surprise me. I was thinking five to seven games was the likely number for DePape. The league is targeting the blind side hits. This was an example. Factor that in plus the injury to Hutt and there you have it.
Depape will be eligible to return for the 2nd game of the 2nd half when the Blazers host the Vancouver Giants December 28th at ISC.
As for Schaber, one game is the likely scenario. He's made the trip and will return to the line-up Friday night in Prince George.
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With the loss of Schaber and Dalibor Bortnak to Slovakia's World Junior team, the Blazers are pretty thin at center tomorrow night against the Winterhawks.
Colin Smith, Logan McVeigh, and Aspen Sterzer become the top three centers barring another forward stepping into the role. It'll be a tough contest no doubt. Keep in mind, the Winterhawks will be short some of their talented players as well.
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The Blazers will play the Winterhawks at the Rose Garden. It'll be the first time in four seasons the Blazers have played in the new rink.
The club will be trying to snap a six-game slide on the road. The last road win was November 5th in Calgary.
More tomorrow........
Jon
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