The Powell River Kings have solidified their defence, while making a difficult decision in net with the acquisition of 2000-born defenceman Ethan Martini from the Trail Smoke Eaters, in exchange for 1999-born goaltender Hayden Missler who goes to the Surrey Eagles in a three team trade.
Martini, originally from Trail, BC, will enter his third season of Junior A hockey after spending the previous two with the Smoke Eaters. The 6’6, 198lb defenceman has played 114 BCHL games, scoring once and assisting on 10 others. This season, Martini has been playing in the USHL for Central Illinois, where he has 1 goal and 2 assists in 13 games.
“Ethan is a great pickup for us,” says Kings Head Coach Tyler Kuntz. “He’s a guy that can give us some big minutes, and being a 2000 birth year and an NHL draft eligible player, he’s someone who can contribute not only this year but next as well.”
In the deal, the Powell River Kings give up 1999 born goaltender Hayden Missler to the Surrey Eagles. Missler joined the Kings earlier this season from the West Kelowna Warriors, and went 4-3 with Powell River, sporting a 2.38 GAA and .915sv%.
“With both Mitch and Matteo here this season, we couldn’t afford Hayden the opportunity to be a starting goaltender in this league, an opportunity that he’s earned through his play,” adds Kuntz. “Going to Surrey is a good opportunity for Hayden to be that guy and to play a lot of minutes.”
The Kings would like to thank Hayden for his work on and off the ice during his time in Powell River, and wish him the best with the Eagles. The team is also very excited to welcome Ethan to Powell River. Ethan is expected in town Friday night, and could possibly play Saturday against Chilliwack.
