Skyhawks add some grit and Dusty's back

The North Bay Skyhawks made a little bit of noise on Wednesday's NOJHL trade deadline. The Skyhawks picked up forward Justin Piquette who was playing sparingly with the OHL's Kitchener Rangers. The Timmins native appeared in only two games this season with the OHL club.

Skyhawks G.M. Guy Blanchard admits the 18 year old isn't a scoring phenom however he will fill a hole on the left wing.

"He's a very strong skater," said Blanchard.

"He'll score his goals going hard to the net, he's got good leadership qualities and he's a character player."

While the trade deadline is complete Blanchard can still make some moves with junior clubs south of the border. Their trade deadline is January 15th and after that Blanchard can still sign players from the North American junior league that have been released by their respective clubs. Stay tuned...

Dustin McCrank returns

Power forward Dustin McCrank has returned to the Skyhawks lineup after requesting a trade prior to the Christmas holidays.

Blanchard hopes the disagreement between the club and McCrank is behind them.

“We hope he comes in and is the player he has been," said Blanchard.

He has a role to play on our team and he needs to ensure he respects teammates and coaching staff and he’ll come and help us win.”



Piquette photo courtesy the Kitchener Rangers and the OHL