The Nanaimo Clippers hope they were able to add the last piece they needed to try to build a playoff team.
Defenceman Danick Malouin is the final member of the 2010-11 Clippers, coming to the team last week at the B.C. Hockey League trade deadline.
The major junior veteran from Granby, Que. made his debut last weekend as the Clips beat Alberni 2-1 and lost to Surrey 2-1.
Allowing just three goals over two games was a team effort, but having the 6-foot-4, 200-pound 20-year-old only helped the cause.
BCHL hockey is a little different than what Malouin had been playing in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League the past few years, he said.
“Here there’s more dumping, pressing, there’s less room to play during the game,” he said. “It’s a lot different, but it’s an adaptation that I have to do and I think I’m doing it pretty well so far.”
Malouin was the odd D-man out when the Baie-Comeau Drakkar added another 20-year-old at the QMJHL’s deadline this month. He had various options, first waiting on waivers, then considering Canadian university hockey or junior AAA in Quebec before deciding on B.C.
He knew a bit about the Clippers program from defenceman Sam Labrecque, who was a neighbour in Granby growing up, so he was “really happy” to come on board with the Shipmen.
“Why not try this experience?” Malouin asked. “I get to play in a different area; it’s a really nice place here and I really like it here.”
He said he’s already comfortable with the guys in the locker room, and will now settle into his new role on the ice.
“I might play a little bit more here than in the Q,” he said. “But I still have to prove myself and play as best I can and coach is going to give me [the ice time] I deserve after.”
GAME ON … The Clippers play the Coquitlam Express tonight (Jan. 19) at 7 p.m. on the mainland, then face the Langley Chiefs on Thursday on the road in another 7 p.m. start. Nanaimo's next home game is Saturday, when the Victoria Grizzlies visit Frank Crane Arena for a 7:10 p.m. game. Tickets to that one will be available at the door.
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