The Victoria Royals lost one of their veterans on Wednesday as the Vancouver Giants scooped up forward Taylor Crunk off Western Hockey League waivers.
Crunk, 20, was not expected to be back as one the organization’s over-age players this season.
“He was certainly in tough,” said Royals general manager Cam Hope. “He knew that was the case, we had a long talk about it and decided it would be a good strategy to go on waivers to give him a chance to go elsewhere.”
Hope has forwards Alex Forsberg, Logan Fisher and Jack Palmer all with the potential to come back, as well as goaltenders Coleman Vollrath and Justin Paulic. Paulic is expected to join the University of Manitoba. Greg Chase is also 20, but is likely to play pro.
“We are excited to add a player like Taylor who has had some good playoff experience over the last few years,” Giants executive vice-president and general manager Scott Bonner said in a statement. “He is a veteran leader who brings grit and toughness, and we believe he’ll be a great addition to our team.”
Crunk, of San Jacinto, California, began his major junior career with the Royals as a 16-year-old, playing 39 games that first season with just two assists. Last season, Crunk collected 10 goals and four assists and had 103 penalty minutes in 71 games. He added a goal and assist in the playoffs.
His most productive year was 2013-14 when he had eight goals and nine assists for 17 points.
Last March, Crunk was charged with assault causing bodily harm after an incident at a New Year’s Eve Party.
According to B.C. Court Services, Crunk’s court date is set for Sept. 21 in Victoria.
