CHOPS make moves, announces captains

Yesterday saw a busy day in the Iowa Chops head office, as 3 players were released, and one trade was made.

Yesterday afternoon, CHOPS traded away a third round pick for upcoming free agent Niclas Havelid. The veteran D man, then signed a 2 year deal for the CHOPS. "We didn't want to risk Niclas going to free agency, as we knew he would be highly sought after. We believe at 36 he still has a great upside, and his defensive game will be very important to our success this season"

Five more players signed new contracts, including Aaron Johnson who will see action in the big league this season, after spending the majority of last year in the minors. Called up also was offensive defenseman Cory Murphy, who will more than likely quarterback the CHOPS powerplay along with Mike Green.

The CHOPS captains were announced also. Wearing the C will be veteran right-winger Milan Hejduk, who will be assisted by new CHOPS signing Niclas Havelid and young defenseman Mike Green.

Robyn Regehr, Kirk Maltby and Shean Donovan were all released, to make cap room. The CHOPS GM went on to thank all three for their hard work last season.