Nanaimo Clippers Add Forward Drew Roelofs and Defenceman Nicholas Morin Ahead of BCHL Trade Deadline
NANAIMO, B.C. — With the British Columbia Hockey League trade deadline passing yesterday, the Nanaimo Clippers announced the addition of two players to their roster, adding size, skill, and depth up front and on the blue line.
The Clippers have acquired forward Drew Roelofs (2006) from Des Moines in the USHL and defenceman Nicholas Morin (2007) from Grand Prairie in the AJHL as the club continues its push through the latter part of the season.
Roelofs, a 6’3”, 205-pound left-shot forward, brings a strong combination of size, speed, and physicality. Committed to the University of St. Thomas, Roelofs possesses offensive ability and is expected to fit seamlessly into the Clippers’ up-tempo, hard-nosed style of play.
“Drew gives us another big, fast, and competitive presence up front,” said Clippers Head Coach and General Manager Birkas. “He plays the game the right way and complements how we want to play.”
Morin, a smooth-skating defenceman standing 6’1”, is a B.C. product who is known for his strong hockey sense and ability to read the play. The 2007-born blueliner joins the Clippers after competing with one of the top teams in the Alberta Junior Hockey League, adding mobility and poise to Nanaimo’s back end.
“Nicholas moves extremely well and processes the game at a high level,” Birkas added. “He gives us another reliable option on the blue line.”
Reflecting on the club’s deadline approach, Birkas emphasized flexibility and continuity.
“Our goal going into the deadline was to be healthy and playing well as a group,” he said. “We also wanted to maintain roster flexibility so we could add players without having to move anyone out. That flexibility allowed us to add both a forward and a defenceman to strengthen our group.”
The Clippers welcome both players to Nanaimo and look forward to their contributions as the team continues its playoff push.
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