Florida Eels Make Waves in CCHL Relocation with New President/General Manager Jeff Shafer's Strategic Trades

 Date: May 26, 2023

In a surprising turn of events, the Florida Eels of the CCHL have relocated from Portland and made some significant trades under the leadership of their new President/General Manager, Jeff Shafer. These trades have caught the attention of hockey enthusiasts across the nation, as Shafer strategically positions the team for the upcoming 2023 Draft.

The first notable trade orchestrated by Shafer involved the Eels acquiring promising prospects, Max Namestnikov, Remi Porier, and a 2023 second-round pick for future hall of famer Marc-Andre Fleury. This trade demonstrates Shafer's focus on bolstering the team's future with two highlighly targeted prospects by Shafer after displaying high end capabilities a two who can set a solid foundation for the future.

Continuing his strategic maneuvering, Shafer then pulled off a deal with (HFX). The Eels acquired the experienced forward Jordan Staal, Nick Perbix, a 2023 first-round pick, and a 2023 third-round pick in exchange for Jack Quinn and prospect Cole Spicer. This trade not only adds depth to the Eels' forward line but also provides them with crown jewel - Perbix who Shafer has seen many times before and additional valuable draft picks.

In a blockbuster trade, the Eels sent one of the most exciting young defensemen in the league, Cale Makar for defenseman, Jacob Morrissey, prospects, Georgii Merkulov, Isaac Howard, a 2023 first-round pick from the (NEC), and a 2023 first-round pick from the (LAS).  This trade showcases Shafer's commitment to building a through this 2023 draft.

Not stopping there, the Eels then engaged in trade talks with the (CGY), as Calgary acquires the talented forward M. Rantanen in exchange for the CGY first-round pick, CAP first-round pick, and NEC second-round pick. Shafer's vision becomes clearer with this trade, as he assembles a entire 1st round draft class fit for a king.

The final trade discussed is a testament to Shafer's desire to acquire both twin Krygier’s and highly skilled Paul Cotter. (CHP) sent P. Cotter, Cole Krygier, Christian Krygier, and a 2023 second-round pick to the Eels in exchange for C. Hart and the FLE seventh-round pick. This trade shows a desire to build a prospect pool of CCHL Legacy families. 

It is evident that Shafer is laser-focused on the 2023 Draft, strategically positioning the Florida Eels to capitalize on the talent available.

As the CCHL prepares for an exciting season ahead, all eyes will be on the Florida Eels, eagerly waiting to witness the impact of Shafer's strategic moves. With a compete now and draft for later mentality, the Eels have set themselves up for a hopeful future.   

UPDATE: more trades have been completed prior to this article being published. 

This was a TSN special report.