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Bowers gets big league shot Justin time
BY Kevin Hageland Staff Writer
Less than a week after Allen Americans goalie Chris Whitley was invited to the Detroit Red Wings rookie camp, one of the Central Hockey League’s newest franchises had another player plucked for a potential shot at the NHL.
That player is 24-year-old center Justin Bowers, who will be attending the rookie camp of the Phoenix Coyotes.
“I was immediately excited,” Bowers said. “When you get invited to your first NHL camp, it’s huge. I’ll be with other draft picks and players they’ve invested money in. It’ll be my chance to show them what I’ve got.”
“Justin has such a competitive drive and he loves to play,” he said. “This happening for him will only fuel that fire.”
Bowers racked up 15 goals and 30 assists in 44 games for the Dayton Bombers of the East Coast Hockey League last year. The 6-foot, 186-pounder also played a total of 27 games in the American Hockey League with the Lake Erie Monsters and Quad City Flames.
The feelings could develop over time, but Bowers doesn’t have any butterflies just yet.
“I’m sure I will be [nervous], but I like to think of myself as a confident hockey player,” he said. “I’m going to go there and play my game. I’m sure nerves will be part of it, but as of right now, I’m just looking forward to it.”
Americans engineer a trade
After signing a handful of players during the offseason, the Americans are now displaying there ability to wheel and deal as the team has acquired defenseman Erik Adams from the Colorado Eagles in exchange for future considerations.
Adams, 29, is an eight-year professional hockey veteran.
The last four of those seasons were spent with the Eagles, which were Ray Miron President’s Cup finalists in 2009. The 6-foot, 205-pound defender posted 38 assists and 66 penalty minutes in 64 games last season and had two 5-game point streaks.
“Erik brings a solid veteran presence to our defense,” Mullins said. “He’s very versatile and can play in all situations; he will be a key component to the success of the club.”
After graduating from Denver University in 2002, Adams began his professional career in the ECHL. Following the 2002-03 season, he signed with the New Mexico Scorpions and went on to the Eagles in 2005.
The Thunder Bay, Ontario-native is known for hard hits in his own end of the ice while also contributing offensively.
“In talking with the coaching staff, the organization sounds first class,” Adams said. “Also, there’s a lot of hype and excitement about the club in the [Metroplex].”
The following are comments from the readers.
In no way do they represent the view of Starlocalnews.com
In no way do they represent the view of Starlocalnews.com
Gary wrote on Jul 30, 2009 10:34 AM:
" Great story Kevin. Coach Mully has the bull by the horn. This team will rock the CHL. Stand by, you won't want to mis a minute. Keep us informed Kevin. THANKS, Gary "
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