Rutherford Returns from AHL; 'Blades Add Brace

ESTERO, FL – The Everblades announced a couple of transactions on Tuesday.  Forward David Rutherford has been returned to the Everblades from the Charlotte Checkers of the American Hockey League.  In addition, the Everblades have agreed to terms with forward Adam Brace.

Rutherford, 25, returns to Florida after posting seven points (1g, 6a) in 17 appearances with the Checkers this season. In 31 games with the Everblades this season, Rutherford has registered 32 points (14g, 16a), which included a hat-trick performance back on December 28 against Orlando.

Last season the 5-9, 195-pound forward totaled 55 points, including a team leading 25 goals.  Rutherford also added 12 points in 17 playoff games to help lead the club to its first Kelly Cup title. The championship was not the first for Rutherford who has won titles with Bossier-Shreveport of the Central Hockey League in 2011 and a Memorial Cup with Spokane (WHL) in 2008.

Brace, 24, joins the Everblades after registering 41 points (14g, 27a) in 38 games during his senior season at Robert Morris University.  The 5-10, 185-pound forward accumulated 92 points (40g, 52a) during his three seasons at Robert Morris from 2010-13. The Colden, Ontario native posted 23 points (6g, 17a) in 33 appearances at Canisius College during the 2008-09 season.

Both players are expected to be in the lineup tonight when the Everblades battle the Orlando Solar Bears at the Amway Center. The game will be broadcast on 96 K-Rock (96.1) or online at www.floridaeverblades.com

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The Everblades return home for Fan Appreciation Weekend thisFriday, March 29 & Saturday, March 30 against the Orlando! For both nights, the first 2,500 fans will receive an Everblades Team Photo courtesy of FGCU. Fans will also have an opportunity to win some great prizes throughout both games. Friday’s game is Team Awards Night; the awardsceremony will take place prior to the game. There will be a Player’s jersey auction following Saturday’s game.

Ticket Information: The Capital Bank Box Office is open Monday thru Friday from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Fans may also call Ticketmaster at 1-800-745-3000, or order online at www.ticketmaster.com

Group discounts are also available, and can save fans up $8 off per ticket from the normal box office price. Playoff ticket packages, as well as 2003-14 Season Ticket packages are currently on sale!  For more information on all available packages, call the Everblades office at 239-948-7825.