With Jake Kustra (pictured) closing in on a return to action, the Saskatoon Blades traded the 19-year-old defenceman Monday afternoon to Victoria, along with a seventh round pick in the 2019 W-H-L Bantam Draft, for a fourth round selection in 2019.
The seventh round choice was acquired from the Royals over the summer for winger Tyler Lees. The move leaves the Bridge City Bunch with eight defencemen. A Yorkton product, Kustra had an assist in 10 games this season before suffering a Lower Body injury October 14 against Prince Albert. A second round pick in the 2014 Bantam Draft, Kustra posted six goals amongst 31 points in 169 games with the Blue and Gold. The Blades host Edmonton Tuesday night. Following is the news release from the Blades…
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Saskatoon, Sask. — The Saskatoon Blades have acquired a 2019 4th round bantam draft pick from the Victoria Royals in exchange for ’99 born defenseman Jake Kustra and a 2019 7th round pick. The 7th round pick originally belonged to Victoria and was acquired by the Blades in the off-season for 2000 born forward Tyler Lees.
“Jake has been a warrior for our club for the past three and a half seasons, but with nine defensemen on our roster we felt this was a good return and ultimately a great opportunity for Jake to get back to playing once he’s medically cleared,” explained Saskatoon Blades general manager Colin Priestner.
Kustra had 1 assist in 10 games this season before suffering a lower body injury October 14th in a game versus the Prince Albert Raiders. Originally drafted by the Blades 34th overall in 2014, the product of Yorkton, Saskatchewan, has appeared in 169 WHL games over the past four seasons. During his career, Jake has scored 6 goals, 31 points and collected 222 penalty minutes.
“We’re very thankful for Jake’s contributions to our organization and our community and we wish him all the best in Victoria,” added Priestner.
Saskatoon’s roster now consists of 13 forwards, 8 defensemen, and 2 goaltenders. The Blades next action is Tuesday night at home when they welcome the Edmonton Oil Kings to SaskTel Centre for the first time this season.
