The Clippers acquired veteran BCHL forward, Walker Erickson, from the Merritt Centennials for Luke Lavery. Erickson is a 2002 born big body power forward from Surrey, BC. He stands at 6-ft 2-inches and 181-lbs. In 4 seasons in the BCHL, Erickson has played 62 games accumulating 14 goals and 10 assists for 24 points with stops in Trail and Merritt. Before entering the BCHL, Erickson played in the BWC minor hockey program and then played two years in Major Midget with the Valley West Hawks U18 appearing in 83 games scoring 30 goals and adding 34 assists for 64 points.
Darren Naylor, GM and Head Coach of the Clippers, commented on the trade; “I am very familiar with Erickson from my years at the BWC. Walker has always been an elite level forward at every level he has played. He adds a much needed veteran presence to the line-up along with a gritty hard to play against style. I see Erickson being a 2-year guy for the team with a Scardina type skill set. Whenever you get older in this league while upgrading the talent level, it is a trade you must make.”
Wes Mussio, President of the Clippers added, “Walker came out of the BWC at a time when I was the President of the BWC so I know him quite well. He is an excellent player, gives 100% and when given the chance, will score goals. His style is one that fits nicely with Naylor’s traditionally gritty and hard to play against team. I am saddened by having to move Luke Lavery, as he is a hometown boy, but his family and advisor wanted to accelerate his development with more ice time and a bigger role. Merritt is a great opportunity for Luke and we wish him the best in his new setting. He will be a dominate player in the BCHL in a few years 100% guaranteed. I wish him the best and will watch his career closely cheering for the local boy hopefully all the way to Pro.”
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