2018-09-21

The Halifax Mooseheads added another big piece to the puzzle on Friday when they filled the final 20-year-old roster spot prior to the first game of the 2018-19 season. GM Cam Russell swung his second big trade with the Acadie-Bathurst Titan since June by picking up veteran forward Samuel Asselin in exchange for prospects Cole Larkin, Yannic Bastarache and the Mooseheads’ 2nd round pick in 2019.

Asselin will be reunited with fellow Memorial Cup champions Antoine Morand and Jordan Maher from last season’s Titan squad. He tied for the most goals scored during the Memorial Cup tournament in May with five, including an important insurance goal in the championship game versus Regina. He was the first star in the Memorial Cup Championship game and was named to the tournament all-star team.

“We love the grit, character and skill that he brings to our team,” Russell said.

“Plus he brings a wealth of experience that is paramount for success this season.”

The L’Assomption, QC native was acquired by the Titan from Shawinigan last January in one of several moves made by the team at the deadline. He was a key player down the stretch and in the playoffs, scoring 42 points in 48 regular season games between the Cataractes and Titan and then adding 11 more in the President Cup playoffs. He most recently attended training camp with the Columbus Blue Jackets as a free agent. He played center on the fourth line for the Blue Jackets, who won the prospects tournament in Traverse City, Michigan.

Larkin, a defenceman, was drafted by Halifax in the 2nd round, 34th overall while the forward Bastarache was a 6th round pick in June. Both players were returned to their respective Midget teams earlier in training camp.

Today’s move by the Mooseheads solidifies the three overage roster positions with Asselin, defenceman Jake Ryczek and forward Jordan Maher. Asselin took 981 face-offs last season, winning 58 percent of the draws which would have led Halifax in the winning percentage category last season.

He was originally drafted in the fifth round of the 2014 QMJHL Entry Draft by Shawinigan and has produced 114 points in 178 games played. More importantly, Asselin brings veteran leadership and is the type of player that will be difficult to play against for opponents. His addition adds increased depth to a team that will be playing for the Memorial Cup on home ice in May. Asselin was also named the Scholastic Player of the Month for Shawinigan in February 2017.

Head Coach Eric Veilleux will have his newest player in the lineup tonight when the Mooseheads visit the Saint John Sea Dogs at 7pm as part of the season opening 15-game road trip. Asselin will wear number 72. The Herd will also visit Charlottetown tomorrow night. The Mooseheads home opener is set for Saturday, October 27th at 7pm against the Cape Breton Screaming Eagles.

Individual tickets will go on sale on Wednesday, October 3rd at 11am at the Ticket Atlantic Box Office, select Superstore Outlets, TicketAtlantic.com, the Official Mooseheads Shop in Scotia Square Mall or by calling 902-451-1221.

Mooseheads 2018-19 Season Ticket Memberships and 15-Game Packs are on sale now at TicketAtlantic.com, the Official Mooseheads Shop in Scotia Square or by calling 451-1221.