NHL Trade Deadline Impacts Warriors' Captain's Future

Pier-Luc Doyon

A number of WHL players were on the move in Monday's NHL Trade Deadline. One notable player involved was current Warriors Captain Brett Howden. The day saw the Tampa Bay Lightning trade Howden to the New York Rangers. The deal also included Regina Pats defenceman Libor Hajek being shipped to the Rangers. The deal shipped two sturdy NHL vets, Ryan McDonagh and J.T. Miller to Tampa Bay, who many have pegged for Stanley Cup favourites.

The current WHL foes could end up as line mates under the bright lights of the NHL in the near future. Many Warrior fans were excited to see their former captain Brayden Point lineup next to their current captain Brett Howden but that won't be happening any longer. 

Its exciting times for Warriors fans these days. Coupled with the team's success, and long-time players reaching milestones, it's no wonder the city is getting behind our team. 

The Warriors now embark on another tough week of action starting in Lethbridge tonight. Continuing across the western provinces, the east division leaders will then travel to Cranbrook, BC to face off with the Kooteney Ice. The road trip wraps up with a Friday night battle against former Warriors Luka Burzan, Chase Hartje and the Brandon Wheat Kings. The boys then return home for a Saturday night showdown with the Saskatoon Blades at Mosaic Place to end the busy week. 

To say the least, this is a very important week for the Warriors. 8 of the remaining 11 games are against east division rivals. This magnifies the importance of these matchups that much more because of the close standings. The Warriors have already clinched home ice for the first round but many consider the remaining games as must-win to ensure their top spot. 

The race to the end of the season begins tonight. Don't miss any of the Warriors action. Make sure to tune in for the pre-game show at 7:40 with the battle beginning at 8:00pm on Country 100FM with James Gallo.