The Vernon Vipers have added some leadership to their roster.
Vernon has acquired Sam Anzai from the Drayton Valley Thunder of the Alberta Junior Hockey League in exchange for future considerations. Anzai turned 19 earlier this month.
The 5-foot-11, 190-pound forward had been the captain of the Thunder. Anzai, a native of Los Angeles, had four goals and 13 points in 22 games for the Thunder this season. He pocketed 6-4-10 in 54 games with Drayton Valley last year. The Thunder are last overall in the AJHL at 6-21.
“He’s got some skill and can make some plays,” said Viper head coach and director of player personnel Mark Ferner. “We wanted somebody a little older and hopefully, he can make us better.”
Ferner watched Anzai play for the California Wave against the Okanagan Rockets in Midget Quad play two years ago and said he was one of their strongest players.
Ferner said the Vipers have five more cards remaining. The roster deadline is Dec. 1. Vernon had an open roster spot following the trade of Finn Evans in late October.
Anzai will practise with the Vipers today and make his debut Wednesday night when they visit the Wenatcheee Wild.
The Vipers visit the Trail Smoke Eaters Friday night and play the Warriors Saturday night in West Kelowna. Wenatchee is in Vernon Wednesday, Nov. 29.
