On Thursday July 2nd, the Atlanta Gladiators acquired defensemen Malcolm Hayes from the Kansas City Mavericks in exchange for future considerations and signed defensemen Zach Yoder.
Hayes, who was born in Atlanta, Georgia, is set for his second season in the ECHL after appearing in 18 games played for the Mavericks. During his 2019/20 campaign, the defensemen racked up two assists for two points. The 25-year-old’s size and physicality will be a welcome addition to the Gladiators defensive core. As well, his ability to play as a forward will suit Atlanta’s hard-working two-way style.
Defenseman Zach Yoder signs after making four appearances for the Toledo Walleye in the latter stages of the 2019/20 season. Like Hayes, he also managed to assist two goals in his inaugural ECHL campaign. Standing at 6’5, the 25-year-old Georgia native promises to be an intimidating figure on the blue line for Atlanta.
In a statement from head coach Jeff Pyle, he said of the trade and the signing on Thursday, “Malcolm and Zachary are exciting and energetic additions to our blue line. We love adding guys that want to prove themselves, and both want to show what they can do on the ice.