Barnard boards the Express
Hard hit by several long-term injuries, the Espanola Express recently added a young forward via Northern Ontario Jr. Hockey League trade with the top-ranked Timmins Rock.
Eric Barnard, who has a 2004 birth date, made his debut with the Express on Sunday in a loss to the Soo Thunderbirds. Before that, as a depth player for Timmins, Barnard managed three goals, two assists, five points in 15 games for the Rock.
Barnard figures to get a chance at more ice time in Espanola with the Express in fifth place in the West Division of the NOJHL, just ahead of the Elliot Lake Red Wings.