Post by Declan on Sept 5, 2009 14:43:57 GMT -5
The Wichita Thunder signed NHL veteran defenseman Chris McAllister on Saturday.
McAllister has 301 games of NHL experience and adds another physical presence to an already strong blue line.
After spending three seasons in the Major Juniors with the WHL's Saskatoon Blades, McAllister was selected in the 2nd round (40th overall) by the Vancouver Canucks in 1995. The Saskatoon, Saskatchewan native ascended to the NHL by the 1997-98 season with Vancouver. The six-foot, seven-inch McAllister's resume includes time with the Canucks, Toronto Maple Leafs, Philadelphia Flyers, Colorado Avalanche, and New York Rangers.
Last season, McAllister scored three goals, and a career-best 12 assists and 15 points while racking up 168 PIM in 60 games for the EIHL's Newcastle Vipers. McAllister was a teammate of newly signed Thunder center Glenn Detulleo in 2006-07 when the two played for the Kalamazoo Wings.
Now entering his 15th professional season, McAllister has 1,570 PIM in just 663 professional games. The 34-year old has collected 123 fighting majors in his career. He brings more NHL experience than any other player in the Thunder's 18-year history.
The Thunder, which ranked last in the CHL in fighting majors last season, now sports four defensemen 6'4 or taller, including McAllister, Mark Adamek (6'4), Chris Kovalcik (6'4), and Jordan Little (6'4). McAllister also fills the Thunder's final veteran spot, joining Detulleo, Jason Duda, and Damian Surma.
McAllister's signing gives the Thunder 18 players under contract for the 2009-10 season. Training camp begins on Monday, October 5th and is open to the public at the Wichita Ice Center.
The Thunder opens the 2009-10 season on Friday, October 16th when they host the Amarillo Gorillas at the Kansas Coliseum. Season tickets and packages are on sale now. The Thunder hosts two exhibition contests against the expansion Missouri Mavericks on October 9th and 10th at the Wichita Ice Center. All seats are just $10.00 general admission. For tickets and more information, contact the Thunder office at (316) 264-GOAL.
www.wichitathunder.com/news/Press_Releases/article804.html