Defenseman Nathan Deck, Thunder Agree to Terms

Published on July 19, 2012 under ECHL (ECHL)
Stockton Thunder News Release


STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, proud ECHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers of the National Hockey League, and head coach Matt Thomas announced today the team has agreed to terms with defenseman Nathan Deck. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Deck, 22, is the third player to return from last year's Thunder blueline, joining Mike Little and Tony DeHart. He was named recipient of the 2011-12 Thunder Unsung Hero Award as a rookie.

"Nathan was a very dependable player which is rare for first year defensemen," said Thomas. "He played in every situation and excelled. We look forward to him taking his game to the next level and we know he will be a difference maker at both ends of the ice."

Deck collected 26 points (7g-19a), 37 penalty minutes and a +9 rating in 60 games last season, ranking second among Thunder rookies in the plus-minus category.

The 5-foot-11 and 185 pound blueliner skated in eight Kelly Cup Playoff games with the Thunder and notched two assists.

Deck previously suited up in 276 career junior games with Prince Albert and Vancouver of the Western Hockey League, scoring 118 points (22g-96a) while totaling 198 penalty minutes.

"I'm super excited for a return to Stockton," said Deck. "It's a great place to play, we had a great group of guys last season and have the best fans in the league. Matt's a great coach and very likeable. We have some unfinished business from last season. I've been working out every day since May and it makes me energized for the good year that I believe is in store for us."

Opening Night is Friday, Oct. 12 when the Thunder launches the 2012-13 season and the ECHL's 25th Anniversary campaign at home against the Ontario Reign starting at 7:30 p.m. at Stockton Arena.

A two time recipient of the ECHL "Award of Excellence," the Thunder led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew over 200,000 fans for the seventh consecutive season in 2011-12. Season Tickets for 2012-13 are on sale now. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit http://www.stocktonthunder.com/.

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