Clippers acquire Craig from Jr Sabres

The Nanaimo Clippers have acquired, on loan from the Buffalo Jr Sabres of the OJHL, 2002 born Canadian d-man , Michael Craig, for the 2020-2021 season. The COVID-19 border lockdown has made it not possible for the Buffalo Jr Sabres program to participate in the upcoming season in the OJHL this season.

Craig comes highly recommended by our Eastern scouting contingent and one head coach of a University program. He was a 2018 draft pick (172 overall) in the OHL (Major Junior) to the Niagara IceDogs but has decided to pursue his dream to play College Hockey in the NCAA. In 51 games as a rookie last season in the OJHL, Craig collected 19 points including 4 goals. He is slated to make a push this year for a top 4 roll on the Nanaimo Clippers including power play unit time.

Colin Birkas, Associate Coach that runs the backend for the Clippers commented, “With the departure of 3 high end skilled defencemen from last years‘ core group we have been spending a lot of time finding the necessary replacements to ensure we have an elite level defence core comparable to last year. Michael came available due to the Buffalo team not participating in hockey in Canada this year. After watching some video and speaking to our scouts, we felt that Michael can step right into a top 4 role and add some offensive thrust from the back end. He is the last piece of the puzzle I believe. ”

Darren Naylor, Head Coach and Vice-president of the Clippers, added, “I am happy to add depth to our d-core for the coming season. Michael in a high skill defenceman who makes good reads and smart plays. He is an elite level skater. I see him helping man the power play and adding a scoring threat from the back end. ”