Huge 2nd year right wing Matt Schmalz(25) signs a one-year deal with Wichita Thunder for 2018/2019 after notching 40 points (23-17) for Manchester Monarchs as a rookie with a +14 rating in 59 ECHL games.
The 6’6″ 209 lbs. forward also played a pair of games with Ontario Reign getting a goal and an assist after he completed his fourth campaign in the OHL.
Originally a Los Angeles Kings‘ 5th round pick in the 2015 draft (#134 overall), he was left unsigned and decided to play an over-age year in juniors for Owen Sound Attack but did eventually sign an AHL agreement before being reassigned for the beginning of his pro career.
It seems if the 22-year old can get off to a good start with his new club that he’ll be loaned up to the higher league and could turn it into a possible NHL contract.