WHL Vancouver Giants

Vancouver Giants Trade Craig Cunningham to Portland

December 28, 2010 - Western Hockey League (WHL)
Vancouver Giants News Release


Vancouver, B.C. - The Vancouver Giants have acquired (LW) Spencer Bennett, (C) Teal Burns, a 1st round pick in the 2011 WHL bantam draft, and a 2nd round pick in the 2012 WHL bantam draft from the Portland Winterhawks in exchange for Craig Cunningham and a 6th round pick in the 2011 WHL bantam draft.

Bennett, a 20 year old from White Rock, B.C., is in his 2nd year with the Winterhawks and currently has 12 goals, 9 assists, and 21 points this season in 37 games with Portland. Prior to joining the Winterhawks the 6'4 left winger spent two seasons in the BCHL and was selected in the 2009 NHL entry draft, 141st overall, by the Calgary Flames. Burns, an 18 year old, is also a native of B.C., hailing from Victoria. A natural centre, this is his first year in the WHL after being taken by Portland in the 8th round of the 2007 WHL bantam draft. In 32 games this season he has 1 goal, 6 assists, and 7 points. Last year Burns played with Victoria and Nanaimo of the BCHL.

Craig Cunningham leaves the Vancouver Giants as the franchise leader in career regular season games played with 295. Formally a 7th round pick of the club in the 2005 WHL bantam draft, Cunningham won 4 division titles and a Memorial Cup as a member of the organization. He was also the 9th captain in franchise history.

"Without a doubt, this is the hardest trade I have ever had to make in my WHL career," said Executive Vice-President and General Manager Scott Bonner. "Craig has been a part of this organization since 2005 and epitomized Giants hockey; however, this is a deal that works for both teams. We are excited to bring in two B.C. boys in Spencer and Teal, as well as replenish our draft stocks, while the Winterhawks get a high-end scorer who knows what it takes to win at this level."

With Cunningham's departure, head coach Don Hay has named James Henry team captain. He becomes the 10th captain in franchise history.

Bennett and Burns are expected to join the club Wednesday and suit up for their first game Thursday night when the Giants host the Moose Jaw Warriors at the Pacific Coliseum.

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Western Hockey League Stories from December 28, 2010


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