The Windsor Spitfires, under the leadership of interim head coach Casey Torres, showcased an impressive performance in their recent 5-3 victory over the Flint Firebirds. This win brought them within four points of the eighth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference, with a game in hand. The team’s current record stands at 8-4-2-0 since Torres took on the coaching role, earning points in their last five games and securing eight out of ten possible points during this stretch.
General manager Bill Bowler expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, noting that, despite recent roster changes, the Spitfires have demonstrated their potential over the last 14 games. Earlier moves included the departure of defensemen Nicholas De Angelis and Rodwin Dionicio, along with overage forward Alex Christopoulos. Bowler emphasized the team’s capability to develop further, particularly with a solid group of 2006-born players.
As the January 9 OHL deadline for trading overage players approaches, Bowler faces crucial decisions regarding the team’s roster. He highlighted the need to assess the team’s position and determine the best course for the organization’s future. This includes evaluating the possibility of gaining assets through player trades, considering the fair treatment of older players seeking a final chance at a playoff run and younger players competing for contracts.
Bowler acknowledged the challenges faced by the Spitfires due to previous roster enhancement efforts, which left them with limited draft picks in recent years. However, he emphasized the team’s improved position, thanks to two trades earlier in the season and acquisitions like Jacob Holmes and Daniil Sobolev. The Spitfires now have three picks in the top two rounds of the upcoming draft and selections in the first four rounds of 2025.
Despite having valuable assets on the current roster, Bowler recognized the potential to further improve the team’s draft position by making strategic trades. Overage players could provide valuable assets if the team decides not to make the playoffs, given the limited time remaining in their eligibility. The focus is on acquiring assets, be it players or draft picks, to strengthen the team’s position and potentially expedite their return to title contention.
Bowler acknowledged the competitive nature of junior hockey, where teams strategically use draft picks to strengthen their rosters. He emphasized the importance of restocking the draft grid while maintaining competitiveness in the coming years. While Bowler is not under immediate pressure to make deals, he mentioned receiving consistent trade inquiries and expressed readiness to make a move if it aligns with the team’s long-term goals.
Looking ahead, the Spitfires are set for two road games, facing the Erie Otters on Saturday and the Niagara IceDogs on Sunday. Meanwhile, rookie forward Cole Davis received recognition as the OHL West Division academic player of the month for December, showcasing his academic excellence alongside his on-ice performance with 12 goals and 22 points in 35 games.
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