Orlando Solar Bears‘ 5th year defenseman Yann Sauve(3) was late to come to the table signing a one-year minor league deal for 2014/2015 two months into the new season.
He was originally a Vancouver Canucks‘ 2nd round pick in the 2008 draft (#41 overall) and in their system for four campaigns, first signing a three-year entry level contract and then an extension for 2013/2014.
The fairly big 6’3″ 215 lbs. blue liner was assistant captain for affiliate Utica Comets, had a career high 13 assists and tied the 14 points he recorded as a rookie, but was also a disappointing -20 plus/minus.
He was recalled to the NHL for the first time since his initial year, when he appeared in 5 games.
In 3 more games as the parent club’s blue line was injury depleted, he again didn’t connect with the score sheet.
He was productive in the QMJHL with Saint John Sea Dogs averaging 20 assists each season and had an unreal +42 rating before he turned pro.
The 24-year old had already played portions of two seasons on reassignment in ECHL teams, so is familiar with the league.
His best run was in 2012/2013, when he had 19 points in 32 games and is off to a good start with a goal and an assist in 5 contests.
On 12/29-14 he has moved back up the hockey ladder for the moment, signing to a pto with Saint John’s IceCaps.