Hitmen and Warriors Deal

The Calgary Hitmen have made a move to add some scoring to their blueline, while at the same time creating some playing time for the youngsters up front.  The deal sees two older forwards moved out while a younger centre, veteran powerplay d-man and a draft pick are on their way in.  Here is the official trade release....

Calgary, AB - Calgary Hitmen General Manager, Executive VP and Alternate Governor Kelly Kisio announced today the team has acquired 18-year-old center Joey Kornelsen, 20-year-old defenceman Collin Bowman and a fourth round pick in 2012 in exchange for 19-year-old forward Justin Kirsch and 20-year-old center Kenton Miller.

“We needed a puck-moving defenceman for our powerplay and to add young talent up front,” said Kisio.  “This deal accomplishes both of those needs.  We would like to thank Justin and Kenton for their time in Calgary and wish them success with the Warriors.”

Kirsch joined the Hitmen in 2009 and over three seasons of play registered 55 points (30g 25a) in 110 games.  The 6’2” 173lbs. forward earned 25 of his 30 career goals last season.

After three campaigns with the Spokane Chiefs, the Hitmen claimed Miller off waivers during the 2011-12 offseason.  The 6’0” 191lbs. center recorded three goals in 11 games played for Calgary.

Since his 2008 WHL debut, Kornelsen had played his entire career with Moose Jaw, scoring 15 goals and recording 22 assists in 118 regular season games played.

Last season, Bowman appeared in 72 regular season games and earned 49 points (11g 38a) with the Warriors.  The 6’2” 200lbs. defenceman has earned five points (4g 1a) in seven games played this season.

Calgary wraps up a three-game home stand on Saturday, October 29 when they host the Everett Silvertips for the Hockey Mums Fight Breast Cancer game.  Puck drop is 7:00 p.m. at Scotiabank Saddledome.

All Calgarians are invited to join the Calgary Hitmen with community partner TELUS in supporting the Hockey Mums Fight Breast Cancer campaign.  Fans can bid now on game worn third jerseys and pink helmets by visiting www.elevateauctions.com/hitmenhockey.  Net proceeds go to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation (CBCF) Prairies/NWT Region.

The online auction closes Thursday, October 27 at 9:00 p.m. MST.  Fans with the winning auction bids will be presented with their signed jersey and helmet following Saturday’s game. 

Fans can also support the campaign through on-site donations and the purchase of CBCF promotional items. In addition, 50/50 proceeds from the October 29 matchup will support the cause.

For information on ticket packages including Flex Packs, Group Tickets or Season Tickets, call Customer Service at 403-777-4646.