WINNIPEG, MANITOBA
The Winnipeg Jets added more depth to their roster, bringing veteran left wing Cal Clutterbuck into the fold. The Jets sent minor leaguer Justin Courtnall and a 7th Round Draft Pick in 2016 to Erik Helsing's Bruins, in exchange for a player that Sean Croft believes will be exactly what the Jets needs to round out their bottom six.
"Cal is a gamer, and he wants to play in the NsHL," commented Croft in regards to Clutterbuck starting the preseason in the AsHL. "Here, he'll have an opportunity to make the team. He'll push some of our other players to perform as well. Everyone knows that their job is not safe, so this will keep everyone on their toes and playing hard."
Head Coach Paul MacLean seemed to be very happy with the deal.
"I preach the church of defense, and Cal knows all about that," said MacLean. "He'll also stay out of the penalty box.
That seems to be a big reason as to why Clutterbuck was brought to the 'Peg. The Jets recently traded Derek Dorsett to the Columbus Blue Jackets, despite just signing him to a 1 year extension. Many close to the Jets believe that, while the Jets liked Dorsett very much, that they believed his tendency to go to the penalty box was something that was going to hurt the team down the line. Clutterbuck seems to have been on Sean Croft's radar for a long time.
"I've always been a fan of the guy. I've wanted him here since I took this team over, and this seemed like a good time, the opportunity presented itself, so we had to jump."
Clutterbuck met with the media this morning after a skating session.
"This is great for me," said Clutterbuck. "They've done a lot over the last few months, and this is a great city to play for."
He also recognizes that this may be his best shot at playing in the NsHL this season.
"Obviously, you want to play in this league. The AsHL has some great talent but this is where you want to be. Until last night, all things indicated that I would probably not start the year here, now I've got a shot and I'm gonna show them they made the right decision."
One man looking to put his dreams to an end is veteran winger Ben Eager, who signed a one year deal with the Jets this fall. Eager has hinted that this may be his last shot to make it in the NsHL, and some close to him believe that he will be bound to Europe next season if isn't given an NsHL opportunity. Eager couldn't be reached for comment.
What is next for the Jets?
League sources say that Sean Croft was in his office until almost two in the morning last night working the phones. Supposedly, he is looking to add one more defenseman, similarly, to push his bottom pairing pieces. Time will tell as you whether or not anything materializes.
Jay Trotter
Jet Fuel
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