The Virden Oil Capitals were active on the trade front on Wednesday, acquiring 20-year-old Tanner McKechnie from the Swan Valley Stampeders.
McKechnie, a Regina product, is a rugged 5-foot-11, 195 pound forward who has netted seven goals and 20 points in 35 games to go along with 57 penalty minutes with the Stampeders this season.
“We’re excited to have Tanner join our team,” said Jamie Hodson, director of business and hockey operations for the Oil Caps. “He brings experience, skill and grit to our lineup. He’s a solid guy on and off the ice and is a good character guy who will also help our leadership group. He’s excited to join our team and looks forward to help us as we look to make a championship push again this year.”
“Tanner is a character guy who works extremely hard in all three zones,” said Troy Leslie, Oil Caps head coach and GM. “He provides an element of physicality and can provide offence. His added leadership will be invaluable heading into the playoffs.”
“I’m looking forward to joining the Oil Capitals organization,” said McKechnie. “I’m excited to come and play a roll with this club.”
McKechnie joins a talented forward group in Virden that sits tied for fourth overall in the MJHL in goals for with 134 tallies thus far this season. The Oil Caps are currently sitting in fifth place in the MJHL standings and are just two points back of the fourth place Selkirk Steelers.
The Stampeders received a player development fee in return for McKechnie.
The CJHL trade deadline is tonight at 5:00pm.
The Oil Caps battle the OCN Blizzard on Friday night at Tundra Oil and Gas Place. Game time: 7:30 p.m.