Grizzlys keep most of their roster intact

In the wake of a shakeup in the Grizzlys' den this summer, there was concern over an exodus of players, but the incoming head coach has confirmed that most of last year's roster would remain.

"In all honesty, it's pretty normal, what we're at right now," said newly appointed head coach Adam Redmond. "I was scared that it was going to be six guys returning, with all the speculation of guys wanting to get traded."

In fact only a handful of players from last year's ranks are leaving or looking to leave. Matt Holzer has already been traded to the Wenatchee Wild in the BCHL, in exchange for rights to Canmore native Logan Milliken, as well as a future pick either this season or next. Milliken is already committed to play NCAA Div. I hockey at the College of the Holy Cross in the upcoming season.

"It was just a safety thing, until we can get the player we are looking for from them," said Redmond. "The deal is set up so that if we can't agree on a player (from Wenatchee) this year, then it will be for next year."

The Grizzlys' most notable potential loss is the team's season leader Tyr Thompson, who Redmond said has been eyeing the USHL and is also potentially looking for a trade within the AJHL. The Sherwood Park native topped the Grizzlys' leaderboard last season with 54 points, including 19 goals and 35 assists, and is committed to play for Alabama Huntsville once his junior time is up.

"Obviously he is trying to weigh out his options," said Redmond. "The last we talked, he is thinking about returning. It's a possibility, but in the end I think he wants to be moved, so we're going to try and find him a place (within the AJHL)."

In addition, Redmond said D-man Tom Mealey has decided to pack up his skates and head to university in Calgary.

"It's a tough choice when you decide hockey is no long an option for you," said Redmond.

All in all, Redmond said the Grizzlys have at least 13 returners, including goalie Andrew Henderson, captain and hometown boy Chase Olsen, and top-five team leader Ryley Smith.

"Guys are ready to jump up and assume different roles and maybe there's opportunities now for other players," said Redmond.

"I'm expecting Chase and Ryley to come in and lead offensively and then there's other guys that I am hoping will step up and produce even more."

The Grizzlys hit the ice for their first exhibition matches against the Drayton Valley Thunder with an away game on Aug. 30, and then return to home ice on Sept. 1. The Grizzlys' first regular season game is at the Calgary Canucks on Sept. 17.