Babych buoyed by new start with the Raiders; Hunter back from Wild

Babych was Calgary’s fourth round draft choice in 2012 and was traded to Prince George just after starting his second season with the Hitmen.

In 93 career regular season games in the WHL, Babych has 10 goals and 11 assists, but feels he can contribute in any role.

“I’m responsible in the defensive zone and can contribute offensively, I can penalty kill, power play, just whatever the coach needs me to do, I’ll do it.”

Head Coach Marc Habscheid likes the fact Babych brings experience to the Raider roster.

“He’s a guy that’s been in the league for a bit, so he’s got some experience which is good, he adds to our group, wherever we need him that’s where he’ll fill in,” said Habschied. “So we know a little bit about him and time will sort out where he fits into our plans.”

Babych said the anxiety associated with being uprooted from Calgary to Prince George at this time last year made this trade easier to deal with.

“I think the first time you’re a little more shocked and disappointed,” said Babych. “It wasn’t as much of an adjustment for me this time, going through it already, it wasn’t that much of a change, and I mean I’m coming to a new team and getting started with a good group of guys.”

The Raiders open the regular season Friday in Saskatoon and host the Blades in Saturday’s home opener, wearing the retro jerseys. All Raider games can be heard on 900 CKBI.

Hunter back from the Wild

The Minnesota Wild announced on Monday that they’ve reassigned Hunter Warner back to the Raiders from the Wild’s training camp. Warner signed a professional contract during last year’s training camp.

That brings the Raiders overage total up to four on their current roster. It could get as big as five if Mackenze Stewart is shipped back by the Vancouver Canucks.

Warner joins defencemen Jesse Lees, centreman Jordan Tkatch and left winger Craig Leverton as the current 20 year olds.

dwilson@panow.com

On Twitter: RaidersVoice

by Drew Wilson

Babych buoyed by new start with the Raiders; Hunter back from Wild

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