Movement Filled Offseason Expected For Local Hockey Players

It’s likely to be a busy offseason for local hockey players changing teams.

Primarily, a change of scenery could be in the near future for Chatham-Kent’s professional hockey players.

Dresden’s TJ Brodie has been rumoured to be a trade candidate, as discussed on TSN as one of two possible defenders the Calgary Flames could look at moving this offseason.

Dane Fox announced earlier this year he wouldn’t be returning to DEL’s Nurnberg Ice Tigers. Could he be destined for a return to North American professional hockey after tearing up the ECHL for years on end. He is a talented scorer, a commodity that every team is looking for. More than likely however, he’ll change country’s and leagues in Europe.

New pro Kyle Hope had a strong playoff and finish to the season with the ECHL’s Fort Wayne Komets. He’s likely to look at options overseas, but there will be teams calling on this side of the pond as well.

And then there’s Joseph Raaymakers. The OHL star just finished his Junior career, and is undoubtedly looking at professional hockey first, before USports becomes his path. Either way, he’ll be on the move to a new team.

Jamie Schaafsma recently parted ways with the ECHL’s Fort Wayne Komets after captaining the team for four seasons. It’s uncertain whether he’ll continue playing, or will follow a new career path.

Seth Griffith is the only player guaranteed to stay put as the forward re-signed with the Winnipeg Jets, and is likely pegged for the Manitoba Moose again.