It was busy weekend for Head Coach and General Manager Paul Dyck. The Pistons played three games, and the coach acquired two players that he believes can help this team make a deep playoff run.
First, he grabbed F Riese Gaber (’99) from the Dauphin Kings on Friday. Dyck describes Gaber as a dynamic offensive and energetic talent who can fit in anywhere in the lineup. When he heard the news that he was coming to Steinbach, Gaber was excited to join the club. “I’m very pumped to join the team knowing we have a great shot at winning,” he said.
Gaber committed to the Western Michigan University Broncos of NCAA Division I last season while playing for Dauphin. “I’m looking to bring a lot of offence, as well as a lot of character to the team,” he said.
Then on Saturday, Dyck acquired D Mark Wilson (’97) from the Selkirk Steelers. Wilson packed up his stuff, and drove out to OCN and joined the team for Saturday night’s game. The Winnipeg native has had a great start with Steinbach, scoring 2 goals in his first 2 games. “I’ve noticed we play a fast pace and have a structured game,” Wilson said. “I think my skill set can fit well into this type of system.”
Dyck paired Wilson with rookie defenceman Tristan Culleton on the weekend, hoping that the 20 year old would help give some guidance as well. “As a veteran, I will bring experience to our blue line and provide leadership in our room,” he said. “I also try to focus on being a consistent and reliable defenceman that moves the puck.”
As for Gaber, he has not suited up for the Pistons yet because he is in Calgary at the Team Canada West selection camp for the World Junior A Challenge, along with new teammates Darby Gula and Will Koop. The team will be announced tomorrow, and if they make it, the first game will be on December 10th against the Czech Republic.