Avs add Anchorage forward to lineup

PALMER — Connor Wright has been on the radar of the Alaska Avalanche since the forward’s days as a prep player for the South Anchorage Wolverines.

The Avalanche coaching staff kept an eye on Wright after he went on to play for the Detroit Little Ceasars midget major hockey club this season and continued to watch the Anchorage native as he skated for North American Hockey League rival Kenai River.

And when Wright came available, the Avs didn’t hestiate to grab the 5-foot-10 forward. Alaska acquired Wright for a 2011 draft pick in a trade with Kenai River last week, head coach Brian Huebel said.

“We think he’s going to be a good hockey player,” Huebel said. “He’s good now, but he can be even better.”

Wright had the option to play with Kenai River or the Avs after playing a season with the Little Ceasers program. Huebel said Wright chose to head south to Kenai, but after things didn’t work out with the Brown Bears, the Avs were happy to welcome the Anchorage native to the team.

“We think he can help us,” Huebel said. “He’s a good skater, sees the ice well. He’s got a good shot.”

Wright has already contributed, posting a goal and an assist during a two-game series split with Fairbanks last week.

The NAHL trade deadline is Feb. 6.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman sports editor Jeremiah Bartz at sports@frontiersman.com and follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/matsu_sports.