The New Westminster Salmonbellies' recent addition of Tom Johnson to the left side won't be the only change on the team looking to get back to the Mann Cup.
General manager Dan Richardson told The Record that he has secured the services of Milan Gajic, who will now suit up alongside brothers Nenad, Ilija and Alex for the Salmonbellies next season.
"Milan brings a ton of experience," said Richardson. "He's retired from hockey and once we found out, we went after him."
Gajic, who turns 31 on June 1, has played professional hockey for the past decade, with stints as a Victoria Salmon King, Manitoba Moose, Providence Bruin, Florida Everblade, Gwinnett Gladiator and in Denmark, as a Nordsjaelland Cobra. He was a 2001 draft pick of the Atlanta Thrashers.
Richardson said Gajic tried out for the National Lacrosse League's Washington Stealth, but didn't make the final cut.
Richardson said the 'Bellies are losing some key components from last year's squad, including tough guy Rory Smith, who will play out East this year.
"We expect Rory to come back the following season," said Richardson.
Also staying out East is goalie Matt Roik, who had shared the net with Tyler Richards.
"Tyler's our starter now and we're trying out some guys for the back-up spot."
Johnson will take the spot of injured Jordan Hall, out for four-to-six months with a torn ACL.
"To get a player of Tom's ability without having to give up a player or a pick is big," said Richardson.
As for the upcoming season, which will see the Salmonbellies chase after that elusive Mann Cup out East, Richardson said he has high hopes despite last year's elimination by Langley.
"We've got to stay healthy," said Richardson. "Langley was well-deserving of the win and it was a wake-up call for us. We believe that we can get back to the Mann Cup and that means attention to detail and an unwavering focus."
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