One of the longest-standing members of the Estevan Bruins has been traded.
The Bruins dealt veteran defenceman David Robertson to the Portage Terriers (MJHL) on Monday evening for future considerations.
The Terriers also receive the rights to Corey Petrash, a 20-year-old former USHL forward whose rights were acquired two years ago for defenceman Eric Baldwin. In addition, the futures owed to Estevan in the Tyler Kauk trade with Selkirk have been transferred to Portage, meaning Selkirk now owes them a player.
Monday was the SJHL's deadline for teams to cut down to 23 players, and many deals were made around the league.
Robertson, 20, was in his third season with the Bruins and was an alternate captain.
Although the Bruins are building toward next season when they host the Crescent Point Western Canada Cup, Robertson said he didn't really see the trade coming.
"I suppose it was something I had in the back of my head, but not really, no. I was pretty surprised (Monday) night when (Bruins head coach and general manager) Chris (Lewgood) called me and told me the news. You always have to be prepared for a trade, but it's still a shock," Robertson said.
Lewgood said that although the futures will benefit the club in the long run, it wasn't easy to make the deal.
"It's really tough. I have a great job and the other side of it is you deal with these types of things. It's hard. You become close to these guys. We know how much the Estevan Bruins have meant to David and vice-versa, and it's hard to be the one to facilitate the separation."
He added that although he couldn't discuss the futures, "it's actually quite a convoluted trade and it will definitely benefit us in the long run."
Robertson's grit and leadership made him a fan favourite in Estevan, and he said it is tough to leave.
"It's really, really hard. I've met a lot of people here over my time, a lot of great friends I've made, especially my billets. They've been a huge part of my life, and it was hard especially to say goodbye to them."
Robertson scored seven goals and 30 points in 119 games with the Bruins, including a breakout 21-point campaign last year.
"His best games were played when he was playing the game simple," said Lewgood. "He's a big, strong kid who has a strong desire to succeed and is willing to do just about anything to make it happen. That's his big strong suit. Combine that with his dedication to his hockey team and that's what brings out the best in a hockey player."
Robertson said he will miss the camaraderie amongst his teammates.
"Probably some of the best memories are coming back in the summer to meet up with the guys again. I can't say I've ever had a bad day in Estevan. It's always been a great time."
Robertson, who is from Boissevain, said he's happy to go back to his home province and play in the RBC Cup, which Portage is hosting this year.
"It's once in a lifetime. I'm very fortunate that if Chris had to move me somewhere, he moved me there. I'm definitely excited."
Lewgood said the RBC Cup was a major reason he dealt with Portage instead of another team.
"It was a key component to the trade. We were committed to looking after Robby, should he not be a Bruin to finish out (his junior career). There were lots of options and none seemed to fit as good as Portage."
The Bruins are now down to six defencemen, not including R.T. Rice, who is currently up front but can also play on the back end.
Lewgood said he plans to bring in another defenceman, but nothing is imminent.
"We're happy with our group right now, with the versatility with Rice," he said.
