The Red Deer Rebels have secured another piece of their future prospect puzzle.
Monday, the Rebels signed Matthew Gard, the team’s 39th overall selection in the 2022 WHL Prospects Draft.
The Winnipeg, Man., native recorded 42 points, including 10 goals, in 27 games with his hometown Rink Academy U15 squad during the 2021-22 season.
Gard, a six-foot-two, 160-pound left-shot forward was previously a defenceman but transitioned to forward last year.
“Matthew improved as the year went on, adjusting from being a full-time d-man previously to playing forward for the first time this season,” noted Rebels Associate General Manager Shaun Sutter.
“We see a tall, athletic player with layers to his game who can skate and think the game. His ceiling is high, and we believe as a scouting staff that he will take leaps in his development as he matures and fills into his big frame.”
Gard will likely join the Rebels full time in the 2023-24 WHL season.