The Winkler Flyers added a pair of talented young forwards with the acquisition of Kurtis Luke and Michael Boutoussov from the Neepawa Natives for a PDF (Player Development Fee) as the Canadian Junior Hockey League Roster Deadline passed on Saturday.

The Flyers were looking to add some offensive as the club currently sits last in goals for and sports a power-play near the bottom of the league in production.

“Luke plays with an edge,” said Flyers General Manager Ken Pearson.

“He scored 30 goals for Parkland (AAA Midget) last season and has the upside to do that at the Junior level also. He will provide an offensive shot on the arm that we are lacking.”

In 23 regular season games played, the 6’2”, 187lbs forward from St. Rose du lac, Manitoba has recorded 11 points (3 goals – 8 assists).

Boutoussov is a 5’8”, 165lb playmaker from Dana Point, California and also has 11 points (4 goals – 7 assists) in 25 games played with Neepawa.

“Michael is a skilled forward that likes to be a playmaker. We are looking for him to help jump start our stagnant power-play,” said Pearson.

The Flyers acquired 19-year-old forward Marcel Berube from the Steinbach Pistons this past Friday in exchange for 18-year-old forward Trent Halfdanson.

In 26 games played with the Pistons this season, the 6’1”, 210lbs left winger from London, Ontario recorded nine points (3 goals – 6 assists) and 31 penalty minutes.

In 66 games played in Winkler over the past two seasons, Halfdanson recorded 11 points (4 goals and 7 assists) and 112 penalty minutes.

Every junior hockey team in Canada was required to have their rosters trimmed to 25 cards while leaving some cards open to use before the January 10th trading deadline.

The Flyers, who have lost seven of their last eight games, will host the Pistons on Tuesday in Winkler.

 

photo courtesy Ryan Sawatzky