The Olds Grizzlys have signed former Calgary Hitmen and Moose Jaw Warriors defenceman Kirk Johnson.
The team made that announcement today (Wednesday, Oct. 1). Johnson is expected to play in this weekend's games against the Drumheller Dragons on Friday and the Spruce Grove Saints on Saturday.
In 61 games played with the Warriors during the 2013-14 season, Johnson recorded a goal, five assists and 73 penalty minutes.
The team has also released 18-year-old forward Matt Lueken.
In 41 games played for the Grizzlys over two seasons, the forward from Fairview recorded two assists and 70 penalty minutes.
The Grizzlys blueline now includes five 19-year-old defencemen with the addition of Johnson, who's originally from Red Deer.
“Adding Kirk will put some pressure on our older defenceman to not be satisfied where (they're) at but instead push them to be at their best every day. We wanted (an) older defensive core this season and we have accomplished that right now,” said Grizzlys head coach Brett Hopfe in a press release.
“(It's) always sad to say (good-bye) to a player like Matt Lueken. He is a hard worker who found himself in a tough position coming into this season with so many speedy skilled players coming in and returning. Our organization would like to wish Matt and his family the best as he continues his hockey career,” Hopfe said in the Grizzlys statement.
