The Steinbach Pistons have brought back defender Troy Williams for a second tour of duty after a trade with the Portage Terriers.

Williams, a 20-year-old from Dryden, Ontario, played 27 games for the Pistons in 2016/17 season.

Head Coach and General Manager Paul Dyck knows the move checks off a number of wants and needs for the team heading into the season. "We felt we had a need on the backend. We looked at players returning and we identified Troy as being of the top guys in the league. We have a familiarity with him and he was well liked in the room. He's obviously a very skilled hockey player and we feel he can put together a special year for himself and help us get back into contention this year."

Dyck also mentioned how versatile Williams is. "Troy can play the game in different ways, he can play with bite, he can play with toughness, he can absolutely rip the puck and he's got the vision. There's no question our backend has to be deep and we felt he's a great start at supplementing the defensive core we already have. I'm sure when our veterans hear about the deal, they'll be pleased."

Williams put up impressive numbers last season with Portage potting 6 goals and adding 26 assists for 32 points in 47 games. 

Going back the other way to Portage were the CJHL playing rights to 19-year-old forward Cole Tymkin who is currently with the London Knights of the OHL and future considerations.