Vees add veteran centre

Photo: Contributed

The Penticton Vees continue to tinker with their roster as the January 10 transfer deadline approaches.

The Vees Friday announced the signing of veteran centre Erik Benoit.

Benoit, 20, has played parts of the last four seasons in the Western Hockey League.

"Adding a veteran like Erik at the centre position will pay strong dividends as we look forward to a playoff push," says Vees president, general manager and coach," Fred Harbinson.

"Not only is Erik a solid two-way player but he also has the reputation of being a leader inside the dressing room."

Benoit has six goals and seven assists in 31 games with Seattle and Moose Jaw this season.

During four seasons with Kootenay, Saskatoon, Seattle and Moose Jaw, Benoit amassed 36 goals and 88 points in 213 regular season games.

He also played in two Memorial Cup tournaments with Kootenay and Saskatoon picking up the assists in nine games.

To make room for Benoit the Vees sent forward Brendan Lamont to Coquitlam for the playing rights to former Vee Mike Rebry.

Lamont played 17 games for the Vees after being acquired from Trail back in November while Rebry is currently in his freshman season at Western Michigan University.