EVERETT — Another piece of the puzzle fell into place for the Everett Silvertips on Sunday.
Defenseman Dane Crowley was reassigned to Everett by the NHL’s Tampa Bay Lightning, meaning the Tips will have their full complement of defensemen this season.
Crowley had been attending training camp with Tampa Bay’s American Hockey League affiliate in Norfolk, Va. He’s expected back in town today.
There was a danger that Crowley wouldn’t return to Everett. As a 20-year-old he’s eligible to play professionally in the minor leagues this season. However, because he was drafted in 2006, the Lightning retain his rights for another year and were not obligated to sign him.
Crowley’s return is a welcome addition to the Tips. Everett lost its opening two games over the weekend, in large part because of defensive breakdowns. Crowley, who’s considered a No. 1-caliber Western Hockey League defenseman, should help in that area.
However, Crowley’s return also further crowds Everett’s overager situation. The Tips now have five overagers with the team: Crowley, forwards Dan Gendur, Brennan Sonne and Brandon Campos, and goaltender David Reekie. Teams must cut down to three overagers by Oct. 11.
Crowley’s return leaves just two Everett players with their NHL teams, center Peter Mueller (Phoenix) and left wing Ondrej Fiala (Minnesota). Both have a good chance of playing pro this season.
Nick Patterson’s Silvertips blog: http://www.heraldnet.com/section/BLOG12
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