STICH TRADED TO JUNIOR

Former Saint John Sea Dogs defenseman David Stich has been traded to the Montreal Junior in exchange for a 2010 third round pick. Sea Dogs director of hockey operations Mike Kelly made the announcement earlier today on saintjohnseadogs.com.

It should be made clear that it was his playing rights that have been traded because he has yet to report to Saint John. According to News 88.9's Tim Roszell, he plans to play in the QMJHL this season.

Stich was returned to Saint John by the Hartford Wolfpack of the AHL where he was on a tryout. The cut came as a surprise as he was expected to make the jump to the professional ranks this season after joining the Wolfpack last season.

The Czech Republic born defenseman has always been a fan favourite in Saint John. He was selected fourth overall in the 2006 CHL Import Draft.

In his three season's with the Sea Dogs he played in 174 games recording 14 goals, 46 assists, for 60 points. He is a career -16 with 254 penalty minutes.

In 18 playoff games he has four goals and 13 points along with a +3 and 28 penalty minutes.

Stich participated in the 2007 Home Hardware Top Prospects game and captained team Czech Republic at last years World Junior Hockey Championships in Ottawa. Following his return, he was named Sea Dogs team captain.

He joined Hartford after the Sea Dogs were eliminated during the playoffs. He recorded two assists in four games with the New York Rangers top affiliate.