News and Notes: Gavin Williams Dominates Royals
Chiefs Found a Gem in Williams
Gavin Williams, a former standout with the Kitchener Jr. Rangers and Stratford Cullitons, has signed an American Hockey League deal with the Syracuse Crunch, the Tampa Bay Lightning's top minor-league affiliate. A 22-year-old Kitchener native, Williams is a 6-foot-3, 200-pound defenseman who recorded 10 goals and 24 assists in 43 games with the Cullitons last season.
Playing with a Chip on his Shoulder
Despite being passed over in the OHL draft three years in a row, Williams has continued to develop, leading the GOJHL's Cullitons in scoring by a defenseman, and being named the league's first-team all-star this past season.
Finding Success in his New Role
"He's a guy that obviously had a chip on his shoulder and wanted to prove people wrong," Cullitons coach Brent Tully said. "We all knew he was going to be a special player. It's just taken him a little bit longer." Williams is expected to play a key role for a Syracuse team that will be looking to rebound from a disappointing season.
Here's a look at the stats that highlight Williams' success:
- 10 goals
- 24 assists
- 43 games played