Supplied by the Delta Sturgeon

With the 2018 season quickly approaching, Delta Sturgeon fans and Management really believe this could be the year to end their long playoff drought (9 years) and, perhaps win a championship.

Said Coach Martin, “It’s really amazing the fan support and the support of the ownership group. They have been extremely patient through these dark years. Even more so, they have been supportive of the last two campaigns where we were tantalizingly close to making the playoffs, but just fell short again. I can tell you the entire team and I are excited for the upcoming season. Not only did I think we would be a contending team, but the huge additions in the offseason clearly speak to the belief of Upper Management that now is the time to win. The acquisition of superb professionals Jonathan Toews and Zdeno Chara will not only shore up our overall defensive play, but also make us a much harder group to play against. They will be a calming influence on our young players, and allow them to continue to develop.”

Asked by several reporters after draft day how the coach planned to deploy the newcomers.

“We’ll just have to see who they gain chemistry with. Let’s face it. These are guys who can play against opponents’ top offensive players in shutdown roles. I would expect them to see similar roles here, but we really need to see if they develop some chemistry that makes a particular combination better. Certainly I believe our penalty kill today is better than it was a few days ago.”

Where do the lines sort out and who moves to the 4^th line?

“I won’t speculate right now on line combinations. For sure we had some good line combinations last season, but each season is new. You’ve got to try and put things together in a way that helps as many folks as possible succeed. Plus, we have some young guys in Vrana and Strome that I am excited to see how they can improve, and maybe supplant veterans. So, you will just have to wait and see”

John Gibson was all smiles. “I tell you, having two players like that will really help your team defense. I think we did a fine job last season..but wow! Am I excited to see those guys work daily against the opposition.”

With the Free Agent draft underway, and teams in camp trying to figure out who will make the cut and stay in the league, the Sturgeon have a nice problem. Too many quality players. Let’s see what they can do to end their playoff drought once the season begins.

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