The Toronto Marlies have re-signed 23-year-old forward Brett Findlay to an AHL contract.
Findlay, a former Sault Ste. Marie Greyhound during Kyle Dubas’ tenure, worked hard to earn his recalls during 2015-16 season, receiving three stints with the Marlies and appearing in 39 AHL games total. The Ontario native amassed 17 points in the AHL, 13 of which were primary markers.
His play was mostly dependable without being outstanding, while his versatility is an asset — he played in all three forward positions for Toronto last season.
While his skating needs some work, he’s not slow, and at just 23 years old there is probably still some improvement to come in his overall game.
At the ECHL level, Findlay has essentially been a point-per-game player for Orlando during the past two seasons. With the current log-jam of prospects in Toronto’s system, the odds are Findlay will begin the season in Florida. He’s a solid depth signing, who — if required — will certainly not let Toronto down and will be a major asset to the Solar Bears as they look to have a more productive season than the last.
Joining Findlay in Orlando will be Patrick Watling, who has signed an ECHL deal with the Solar Bears. Now 22 years old, Watling was originally signed by the Marlies to an AHL deal after his junior stint with Kyle Dubas’ Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds.
His opportunities during 29 games in 2014-15 for Toronto were limited to a fourth line role and some penalty killing time. In the ECHL, the centerman has been better than a point-per-game producer and he’s made himself a fan favourite in Orlando.
Injuries severely curtailed the young forward’s progress last season as he appeared in just 24 games. Watling will be looking to bounce back and earn another shot in the AHL, with the Marlies or elsewhere.
