The Chilliwack Chiefs have acquired Ben Butcher from the Langley Rivermen in exchange for future considerations.
Ben is the brother of one of the best Chiefs ever, former captain Matt Butcher.
Matt skated for the BCHL Chiefs for three seasons, from 2003 to 2006, before moving on to Northern Michigan University. In 165 regular season games in Chilliwack, Matt collected 72 goals and 183 points.
He was drafted by the Vancouver Canucks in the fifth round of the 2005 National Hockey League entry draft.
So... little brother has some big skates to fill as he comes to town.
“I am very excited to have the opportunity to play in Chilliwack,” he said. “My brother loved it there and I can’t wait to put on the Chiefs jersey.”
The 18-year-old showed promise in his rookie season, popping 10 goals and 18 points in 54 games with the Rivermen.
The native of Bellingham, WA, is big at six-foot-two and 190 pounds, and 41 penalty minutes is evidence of some grit.
Chiefs general manager Harvey Smyl is happy to have him.
“Ben has very good skill, a strong work ethic and can be very difficult to play against,” the GM said.
Ben and Matt are both the sons of former Vancouver Canucks defenceman Garth Butcher.