ECHL Idaho Steelheads

Tony Johnson Acquired; McConvey Reassigned, Graham Released

Published on January 15, 2006 under ECHL (ECHL)
Idaho Steelheads News Release


Boise, ID - Idaho Steelheads head coach and director of hockey operations, Derek Laxdal, announced today, the acquisition of defenseman Tony Johnson from the Stockton Thunder in exchange for rookie center Kevin Gardner.

Hailing from Woburn, Massachusetts, Johnson is a 6'0", 185 lbs. right-handed shooting defenseman. In 24 games with the Thunder this season, Johnson has recorded one goal and six assists for seven points. The 25-year-old has also amassed 28 shots and 27 penalty minutes.

"Tony Johnson gives us seven defensemen, and if we need an extra forward, he can play up front as well," Laxdal said. "His addition also means we now have two right-handed defenseman, which we haven't had all season. He's the type of player that does a lot of little things right. And when you do a lot of little things right, it turns into big things - which are wins."

Last season, Johnson registered nine points in 64 games with the now defunct Pee Dee Pride of the ECHL. Prior to turning pro, Johnson played four seasons of NCAA Division I hockey for Merrimack College.

Gardner, a rookie who played his college hockey at Northern Michigan University, had five goals and three assists in 22 games with the Steelheads. Laxdal also said the trade will be a good opportunity for Gardner, who should get more ice time with the Thunder.

The Steelheads also announced today that team captain D'Arcy McConvey has been reassigned from their AHL affiliate, the Iowa Stars. In eight games this season with the Stars, McConvey is scoreless, while registering 12 shots. He has not played for the Steelheads since December 27, yet he still ranks third on the team in scoring with 36 points in just 23 games.

Also today, the club released forward David Graham from his contract. Graham was signed on January 12 and dressed for two games last week against the Victoria Salmon Kings.

The Steelheads return to action again on Friday, January 20, as they host the Fresno Falcons for the first game of a three-game series. The puck drops at 7:10 p.m. MST. For tickets, call 208-331-TIXS.

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