IceDogs deal MacPherson, add coach, scout
Justin MacPherson is on his way to Kitchener for three draft picks. Photo: OHL IMAGES
The Niagara IceDogs have been busy leading up to the opening of training camp next week.
The club has made a trade, added an associate coach, and also named a new scout to their staff.
The IceDogs dealt veteran defenceman Justin MacPherson to the Kitchener Rangers in exchange for two third-round picks (2020, 2022), and a conditional fifth round pick (2023).
MacPherson is a former fourth round pick (2016) of the IceDogs who played two full seasons with the team.
“This was a very difficult decision to move Justin,” Niagara general manager Joey Burke said. “He has been an absolute pleasure to have here in Niagara. His work ethic and talent will be missed. However, the bottom line is that we needed to create space on our back end, and this deal accomplishes that while adding some very valuable draft picks to help us achieve our ultimate goal.”
The IceDogs also added former National Hockey League forward Jody Hull as the team’s new associate coach. Hull replaces Ted Dent, who took a scouting job in the Arizona Coyotes organization.
“We are all very excited about the addition of Jody to our coaching staff,” Burke added. “His experience and his knowledge of the league will be a huge asset as we enter a very important year for our organization. He will fit in perfectly with our hockey staff. We can’t wait to get started.”
Hull, a native of Petrolia, had an extensive professional playing career, with 831 games over 16 years in the NHL.
Behind the bench, Hull has spent the previous 12 seasons with Peterborough Petes, the last six as their head coach. In addition to his time with Peterborough, Hull also has accumulated an impressive international resume, most recently serving as assistant coach for Canada at the U18 World Championships in Russia.
The club also boosted their scouting ranks adding Tim MacLean, whose primary responsibility will be scouting the Greater Toronto Hockey League. MacLean worked as the top Ontario area scout for the New York Islanders for the past 11 seasons.
“We are thrilled to be adding someone of Tim’s calibre to our scouting staff. His pedigree and knowledge will be invaluable throughout the season,” Burke said. “He continues our strong tradition of having high level scouts evaluating potential IceDogs prospects. I know he will fit in great with our already strong scouting staff.”
The IceDogs open camp Tuesday, August 28.
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