Photo Courtesy: Charlie Banquier/Twitter

By Ethan Ready

From Texas to PG

Spruce Kings acquire Banquier from Odessa

Jun 7, 2022 | 10:14 AM

PRINCE GEORGE – The Prince George Spruce Kings have added to their blueline corp, announcing the acquisition of defenceman Charlie Banquier from the Odessa Jackalopes of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) in exchange for future considerations.

“I was very excited to become a Spruce King,” said Banquier. “Being born in Canada, I’ve always wanted to play junior hockey there and it’s always been a dream of mine, so when I got the opportunity to, I couldn’t turn it down. I can’t wait to get there and meet everyone in the community.”

Banquier, from Oakville, ON, spent the last two seasons with the Jackalopes, combining for two goals, 25 points, and 104 games played. In 2021-22, the 6’3, 194-pound defender served as an alternate captain with Odessa.

“It’s good for our group when you can add a mature, veteran defenceman with size who plays the game hard,” said Spruce Kings’ GM Mike Hawes. “Charlie will be a big piece for us this year. His abilities, on-ice presence and leadership will be great additions to this season’s team.”

As a player, Banquier likes to be known as a defender who can contribute on both sides of the puck and do whatever it takes to win,

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“My playing style is definitely a two-way defenseman,” said Banquier. “I like to play a hard, physical game, and make it tough for the other team in our end. I like to create offence when I can and help my team out as much as possible”