Tigers acquire goalie prospect Cruz Chase

By Medicine Hat News on January 9, 2025.

@MedicineHatNews

The Medicine Hat Tigers spun a pre-game deal Wednesday evening.

Just before puck drop against the Prince Albert Raiders, the Tigers announced the acquisition of 17-year-old goaltender Cruz Chase from the Regina Pats. Medicine Hat sends a 2028 eighth-round pick the other way in the deal.

The 5-foot-11 Chase currently plays for the Calgary Canucks in the AJHL, sporting a 2.39 goals against average and a .903 save percentage with an 8-2-2 record in 12 games. Goaltending coach Matt Wong likes the pickup for the Tigers and he is looking forward to working with the net minder.

“I’ve always thought highly of Cruz Chase, I’m excited for him to be brought into the fold,” Wong said. “I think it’s a good fit for Cruz and for our organization.”

He’s yet to make his WHL debut and was selected 136th overall by the Pats in the 2022 WHL draft.

The move was made necessary after 19-year-old net minder Zach Zahara signed with the Brooks Bandits of the BCHL. In order for him to be eligible to play for the Tigers, he would have to be reinstated by Hockey Canada as the BCHL is an unsanctioned league.

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