Devin Mauro to Espanola
Sault Ste. Marie product Devin Mauro has joined the Espanola Paper Kings of the Northern Ontario Jr. Hockey League via the Sudbury Wolves of the Ontario Hockey League.
The 5-foot-8, 155 pound Mauro, who is a 2004 birth year forward, had two goals, one assist, three points in 23 games in his OHL rookie season with Sudbury. His junior A rights were acquired by Espanola from the Markham Royals of the Ontario Jr. Hockey League. He previously played in the NOJHL with the Blind River Beavers.
The NOJHL Paper Kings have an affiliation with the OHL Wolves. And Espanola head coach Jason Rapcewicz sees Mauro as a key contributor for the Paper Kings, who are in a frantic race for fourth place in the NOJHL’s West Division with the Soo Eagles.
“We are super excited to add Devin to our roster,” Rapcewicz told Hockey News North. “Devin is a high end talented kid who will be able to step into our lineup and produce. We are hoping that we can provide Devin with an opportunity to play big minutes and get into all situations. Devin will be a huge asset for us down the stretch.”
Meanwhile, Rapcewicz also confirmed the return of 2006 birth year goalie Drew Gaulton to Espanola. Gaulton, a coveted second round pick by Sudbury at the 2022 OHL priority selections draft, had been sidelined since October with a knee injury.
“We are hoping to string some wins together and hopefully make a jump in the standings. We are grateful for the relationship with the Sudbury Wolves and the trust they have in us to aid in player development,” Rapcewicz added.