Thunderbirds add a defenceman in trade

The Soo Thunderbirds have added a defenceman to the mix via trade.

The team announced the acquisition of Cameron Dutkiewicz on Thursday afternoon in a deal with the Renfrew Timberwolves of the Central Canadian Hockey League2.

A native of Timmins, Ont., the 19-year-old Dutkiewicz played in 40 games with the Timberwolves, scoring four goals and assisting on 11 others in his first season of junior hockey.

“Defensemen like Cam don’t become available that often and we’re excited that he’ll be patrolling the blue line for us this season,” Thunderbirds general manager Trevor Zachary said in a prepared statement. “He defends his zone well and will contribute offensively.”

Prior to joining the Timberwolves, Dutkiewicz played three seasons in the Great North Midget League with the Timmins Majors.

In his final season with the team, Dutkiewicz had seven goals and 31 points in 35 games and also saw action in one Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League game with the Timmins Rock.

In three seasons with the Majors, Dutkiewicz had 20 goals and 42 points in 100 games.

The Thunderbirds sent a player development fee to the Timberwolves to complete the deal.