Thunder acquires ex-Boston player

Thursday, Dec. 4, 1997 | 9:36 a.m.

The Las Vegas Thunder of the International Hockey League acquired right wing Trent McCleary Wednesday in a three-team deal that involved the Detroit Vipers and Fort Wayne Komets. The Thunder traded left wing Andrei Bashkirov to Fort Wayne where he had been on loan since the middle of November. In turn, the Komets agreed to future considerations with Detroit, which then shipped McCleary to Las Vegas.

McCleary appeared in 21 games with the Vipers this season and had a goal and an assist. Last season, he played 59 games with the Boston Bruins and registered eight points. The native of Swift Current, Saskatchewan spent the 1995-96 season with the Ottawa Senators and scored four goals with 10 assists and 68 penalty minutes in 75 games.

"McCleary fits the identity of this team," said Thunder general manager Bob Strumm. "His numbers weren't great in Detroit and we expect bigger production. However, his value extends far beyond what he brings in numbers."

The Thunder also obtained right wing Jamie Linden. He spent last season with Grand Rapids and started this season with Carolina of the AHL. In additional news, defenseman Denis Tsygurov didn't report and won't be offered a contract.