Press Release
The Portland Winterhawks have signed defenseman Blake Heinrich, a fifth
round draft pick of the Washington Capitals in the 2013 National Hockey
League Draft.
Heinrich, 18, plays with the Sioux City Musketeers
of the United States Hockey League, and will join the Hawks at the
conclusion of the Musketeers’ season. He has six goals and eight assists
for 14 points in 31 games this season. In 42 games in Sioux City last
season he had three goals and 17 assists for 20 points.
“We have
had discussions with Blake since drafting him about becoming a
Winterhawk and are excited to announce that he will join us at the end
of the year. He is a dynamic defenseman who is a perfect fit for our
style of play. I expect he will be a big part of our future over the
next two seasons as we rebuild our defense,” said Portland Winterhawks
General Manager & Head Coach Mike Johnston.
“Right now Blake
will remain in Sioux City of the USHL for the duration of their season.
He is a captain there and from a developmental perspective it is the
best situation for him right now. The way the rules work Blake will only
be eligible to play six games this season but his time with us at the
end of the year will help in his transition next season,” continued
Johnston.
Heinrich, a native of Cambridge, Minnesota, will become
the third player from the state on the Hawks’ roster, joining Paul
Bittner and Keegan Iverson. While playing in Sioux City he had committed
to the University of Minnesota-Duluth, but opted to join the
Winterhawks instead.
Prior to joining Sioux City, Heinrich was
considered one of the best high school players in the state of Minnesota
while playing at Hill-Murray High School. He was drafted by the Hawks
in the 12th round of the 2012 WHL Bantam Draft.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
KOTP Ep. 184 – The Final 15
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