Thunder Deals Blaznek To Corpus Christi
July 10, 2007 - Central Hockey League (CHL)
Wichita Thunder News Release
WICHITA, KS- The Thunder today traded veteran right wing Joe Blaznek to the Corpus Christi Rayz in exchange for defensemen Todd Paul, Tony Johnson and Jason Lepine.
Blaznek, a nine-year pro out of Detroit, Michigan, spent three-and-a-half seasons with the Thunder, contributing 117 goals and 249 points in 208 career Thunder games. He was acquired by the Thunder in January of 2004 from the Lubbock Cotton Kings.
"I would like to thank Joe for his time and effort while with the Wichita Thunder organization", said head coach Mark French. "We wish him all the best in his future hockey endeavors."
A three-year pro out of Aylmer, Quebec, Paul enjoyed his finest pro season last year with the Rayz, notching career-highs for goals (12), assists (22) and points (34). He began his CHL career in 2004 with the Tulsa Oilers, before he was traded to Corpus Christi during the 2005-06 season. In 175 pro games, Paul has notched 26 goals and 97 points.
Another three-year pro from Woburn, Massachusetts, Johnson appeared in 63 games with the Rayz last season, notching eight points and a plus/minus rating of +12, third best on the team. Prior to joining the Rayz, he spent two seasons in the ECHL, including a stint with the Pee Dee Pride, where he was a teammate of Thunder goaltender Sebastien Laplante. He has career pro totals of 29 points in 186 games, including a plus/minus rating of +17.
Lepine (pronounced luh-PEEN) began his pro career with the Rayz last season, picking up four goals and 14 points in 43 games. Prior to joining the Rayz, he enjoyed a three-year junior stint with the CJAHL's Cornwall Colts. Lepine notched 144 points while with Cornwall, including a 66-point season in 2005-06, best among all CJAHL defensemen.
The Thunder will begin their 16th CHL season in October. For more information, call the Thunder office at 264-GOAL or visit our website at www.wichitathunder.com.
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Central Hockey League Stories from July 10, 2007
- Defenseman Craig Minard Signs For The 2007-08 Season - Fort Worth Brahmas
- Mighty Marty re-signs with Blazers - Oklahoma City Blazers
- SteelHounds Bring Pittsburgh Native on Board for 2007-2008 - Youngstown SteelHounds
- Thunder Deals Blaznek To Corpus Christi - Wichita Thunder
- Rayz Acquire Former MVP Finalist Joe Blaznek - Corpus Christi IceRays
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