Hear Gord Thibodeau's media scrum after today's practice:
Fort McMurray Oil Barons head coach and general manager Gord Thibodeau has confirmed that former Calgary Hitmen forward Danny Gayle will report to his team tonight.
“He's a veteran guy that's produed a lot at midget and junior level, and had a career year last year in the Western league,” said Thibodeau. “We need some offence, we need some skill up there, and he's definitely a guy that can fill that.”
“He's also a very good skater, which should fit in with the style of game we want to play.”
The Calgary native scored 15 goals and 24 assists for 39 points in 61 games with his WHL squad this past year.
His rights were originally owned by the Lloydminster Bobcats but were traded to Fort McMurray last week in exchange for forward Jessey Touchette. It wasn't until today, however, that his willingness to play for the MOB was fully confirmed.
“He just wanted to take his time and visit with his family and make sure they were all on the same page,” said Thibodeau. “Had we had some games this [past] weekend he would've been here earlier, but there was no rush. We wanted to give him enough time to settle himself.”
“We talked with him early last week, and we were pretty positive at that point that this would come.”
The Barons are on the road this weekend for 2 road games in Drayton Valley on Friday and Saturday, followed by a Sunday matinee in Sherwood Park.