The Steinbach Pistons acquired F Riese Gaber (’99) from the Dauphin Kings late Thursday night in exchange for F Danny Pion (’98), D Matthew Boonstra (’01), a 5th round pick in the 2018 MJHL Draft, and Future Considerations.
Gaber hails from Gilbert Plains, Manitoba, and is currently in his third MJHL season. He was their leading scorer with 21 points (15 goals, 6 assists) in 27 games played. Last season, he registered 32 points in 42 games played. Gaber has already committed to the Western Michigan University Broncos of NCAA Division I.
“We felt the addition of a dynamic player like Riese would give more offensive depth that would be beneficial down the stretch and into the playoffs,” Head Coach and General Manager Paul Dyck said. “He brings great energy and will be a player our fans are going to enjoy watching.”
Gaber will not be with the team on its upcoming road trip this weekend to OCN and Swan Valley, as he will be participating in the Team Canada West Selection Camp for the World Junior A Challenge later this month. He was teammates with Darby Gula and Will Koop on last year’s squad.
Pion put up 2 goals and 9 assists in 20 games played during his 2nd season with the Pistons. Dyck talked about how tough it was to part with a guy so beloved in Steinbach like Pion was. “He was close to his teammates, and has made an impact in our community by connecting with so many people,” he noted. “We are very grateful for his contributions to our program.”
Boonstra has put up 16 points in 16 games in his first full season with the Eastman Selects of the Manitoba AAA Midget Hockey League.
The Pistons would like to wish Danny and Matthew all the best as they continue their careers with the Kings.