The Stingrays announced two more player signings today: forward Derek DeBlois will return after his rookie season and goaltender Mark Dekanich will bring his NHL, AHL, and KHL experience to a team that finds itself without a clear-cut starter.
DeBlois played 59 games or the Stingrays last season, posting 45 points (21g-24a) in the regular season and adding 29 (11g-18a) more in 17 playoffs games. The 24-year-old from Narragansett, R.I. lead the team in goals and finished third in points. DeBlois also played four games with the Worcester Sharks of the AHL in his first pro season.
Dekanich played one game for the Nashville Predators in 2010, allowing three goals on 25 shots over 50 minutes of play. After finding success with the St. John’s IceCaps in 2012-2013, Dekanich left North America to play two seasons with Medvescak Zagreb (Croatia) of the KHL. With seven pro seasons to his name, Dekanich brings a much needed veteran mentality to the Stingrays net.
The Stingrays are set to open their season October 17th against the Reading Royals. Derek DeBlois’ season begins early as he joins the Caps rookies for the NHL Rookie Tournament in Estero, Florida next week.
