Thunder Bay Timberwolves Hockey Club

Thunder Bay, ONT

...On the eve of the 2009 CCHL Entry Draft, where the Thunder Bay Timberwolves were already holding the first and third overall selections, they pulled off a blockbuster acquisition in the form of Slovak sniper, Marian Gaborik.

...Gaborik was brought in from the Dayton Musicmen for Belorussian prospect, Mikhail Stefanovich and the Timberwolves two second round picks in this years draft (25th & 34th overall).

..."Anytime you are in a position to get a guy of Gaborik's caliber, you pull the trigger," said Timberwolves GM Blake Wendt. "Stefanovich wasn't someone we were looking to move. We weren't actively shopping him around as has been speculated. It is true that although he is an immense talent. As shown this past season in the 'Q' (QMJHL). His dedication and work ethic were not sitting well with this hockey club. As evidenced by his lack was commitment to the optional workouts here in Thunder Bay. Or the fact that he has yet to come to Thunder Bay, period."

...Marian Gaborik does have his own issues. Injuries are starting to creep around the speedster. But the Timberwolves think that these injuries can be overcome with proper training and not be a major issue.

..."We're confident that Marian can and will be a huge positive impact for us," said Wendt. "The good far outweighs the bad. Injuries are a part of this game. It's unavoidable. Marian's not any different than any other player out there. We're extremely happy to have Marian Gaborik in Thunder Bay and in a Timberwolves sweater for years to come."

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...The Timberwolves are now on the clock with the first overall pick in tomorrows Entry Draft. Will they go with the long-time, highly touted OHLer, John Tavares? Or the giant Swedish rearguard in Victor Hedman? Or even Matt Duchene? In any event, two of these three players will be wearing the blue and white by Wednesday night.