Toronto adds top RW in Pavelski...say goodbye to JVR

Toronto, ON.) Today prior to the  HBMHL rookie entry draft the Toronto Wolfpack and Portland Platoon pulled off a blockbuster deal seeing two major pieces change addresses. Toronto sends top LW James Van Riemsdyk and defenseman Andre Sustr to Portland for Joe Pavelski and the 29th overall selection in the HBMHL entry draft.

The deal was in progress for several days and saw each side send proposals until the offer was finalized today with both parties agreeing. GM Tom Welch of Toronto had this to say about the deal, "we are very happy with the deal landing a premier RW that our team desperately needed. Losing JVR is tough, but we have Ovie and Gabs on the left side and minutes were tight for JVR going forward. We wish him well in his new venue. Overall, we like our forward lines now much better, with players lining up where they belong now. Toronto likes the additional asset the pick provides as well and will not need to go deep in the UFA market like last year."

It is assumed that Joe will play on the top line with Ovechkin and Backstrom although Joe can also center a line if need be due to injury or to shuffle the deck. In addition, Joe is proficient on special teams, playing both the PP and PK.

It appears Toronto has solidified the Top line for the Wolfpack and are serious about contending for the Cup this year in the HBMHL.