6th year defenseman Brenden Kichton(28) found himself facing a 2nd group 6 unrestricted free agency after a one-year deal with Carolina Hurricanes that saw him spend 63 AHL games with affiliate Charlotte Checkers putting up his 5th 20+ assist campaign.
Instead of trying to seek out another big league deal that would likely have him adding to his 335 minor league games, he has decided to head off to Liiga signing with SaiPa that will likely see him continue his scoring prowess.
The 26-year old may have found a good landing spot but also could play his way up to higher leagues overseas with strong showings.
Brenden Kichton (8)
Double draft pick (most recently Winnipeg Jets‘ 7th round in the 2013 draft, #190overall) rookie defenseman Brenden Kichton(8) was making a huge splash on the back line in his last few years of juniors with Spokane Chiefs.
He managed 240 assists in 202 WHL games, good enough for most helpers in the league from 2010-2012 and lead all d-men in points those years as well.
It’s surprising his number slipped so far down in the most recent draft, especially considering his offensive explosion.
He was originally taken by New York Islanders in the 5th round of 2011 (#127 overall) but failed to work out a contract with the team.
The 6′ 190 lbs. blue liner was also invited to join Detroit Red Wings‘ prospect camp in 2010.
He was reassigned to Winnipeg‘s minor league affiliate St. John’s IceCaps to start his debut campaign and has continued to effectively head man the puck for scoring chances.
In 17 AHL games he has 2 goals and 9 assists with a +5 rating.
Signed to a three-year entry level deal, the 21-year old looks to have a bright future ahead of him and will likely realize his first NHL recall this season.