BISMARCK, N.D.–In one of their most memorable free agent acquisitions in recent memory, the Bismarck Bobcats have signed forward Erik Atchison.
The 20-year-old had been placed on waivers by the WHL’s Spokane Chiefs before the start of the regular season. Atchison had been in Spokane for his entire junior career, spanning 150 games in four seasons. The Las Vegas native recorded 10 goals and 22 points in 45 games last season, while also earning power play opportunities with the Chiefs.
“He is a guy who has played a high level and produced at a high level,” head coach Layne Sedevie said. “He is a huge addition to our team. A leader who does things the right way.”
Atchison has already impressed the Bobcats’ coaches and players in his first week of practice with the team.
“He plays hard,” Sedevie said. “He works. He has sneaky skill and good hands, but he works.”
The Bobcats now have two former Spokane Chiefs forwards on their roster, with Atchison set to join Brandon Reller.
The Bismarck Bobcats play their home opener on Saturday, October 1 against the Minot Minotauros. Puck drop at the VFW Sports Center is 7:15 p.m. Tickets are on sale now at www.bismarckbobcats.com and on the free Bismarck Bobcats mobile app. Fans can listen live all season on SuperTalk 1270 AM, the radio home of the Bobcats.