The Saskatoon Blades have made what they are calling a “major trade” with the Spokane Chiefs.
The Blades acquired forwards Evan Fiala, Markson Bechtold and a conditional sixth-round draft pick in exchange for forward Wyatt Sloboshan, defenceman Nolan Reid and a 2017 third-round pick.
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Blades general manager Colin Priestner said the trade brings playoff experience and leadership to the team.
“In order to achieve our goals we felt we needed a top-end centre who can play against other team’s best players, and a big, physical defenseman,” Priestner said.
“That’s what we got, and both of these players provide playoff experience and leadership to our group.”
Fiala has two goals and seven assists in 32 games with the Chiefs this season, along with a +12 rating.
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Priestner said the six-foot four defenseman from Clavet, Sask., is a top-end defender who comes to play every night.
“He plays a tough brand of hockey and he’s definitely going to help us going into the back half of the season, which is always the hardest stretch,” Priestner said.
In Bechtold, Priestner said they got a mature 20-year-old player they have coveted for a long time.
“He’s a strong two-way centre and we feel he’ll be able to help us in all situations whether that’s even strength, killing penalties, or the power play,” Priestner said.
Bechtold, who recently returned from an injury, has five goals and three assists in 13 games this season.
WATCH BELOW: Blades general manager Colin Priestner explains what the trade means for the team
Priestner added that it was hard to trade long-time Blades Reid and Sloboshan, but felt the trade will improve the team.
The Blades also placed forward Kolten Olynek on WHL waivers.
Fiala and Bechtold are expected to make their Blades debut on Friday when they take on the Wheat Kings in Brandon.
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