Crowley returned
Published 7:51 pm Sunday, September 23, 2007
After a frustrating weekend on the ice, the Tips received some consolation news today when the Tampa Bay Lightning reassigned defenseman Dane Crowley back to Everett.
As an overager, Crowley was a candidate to play for Tampa Bay’s American Hockey League affiliate in Norfolk, Va. But as a 2006 draftee the Lightning retain his rights for another year and therefore didn’t have to sign him.
Crowley’s return is a big deal for Everett. He’s a No. 1-caliber defenseman, and defense is where the Tips struggled the most this weekend. His return should help in that regard.
However, it also crowds Everett’s overager situation. Crowley, forwards Dan Gendur, Brennan Sonne and Brandon Campos and goaltender David Reekie are all battling for three spots. Crowley and Gendur are locks,with Sonne probably the likeliest candidate among the remaining three.
Crowley’s return also means just two players remain away, center Peter Mueller and left wing Ondrej Fiala. And I don’t think the Tips are counting on either this season.
