Springfield, MA- The Springfield Thunderbirds announced on Tuesday that they have recalled forwardRihards Bukarts from the Manchester Monarchs of the ECHL. 

A native of Jurmala, Latvia, Bukarts played in 11 games for the Thunderbirds in October and November, tallying two assists. The 21-year-old has had a strong season with the Monarchs, scoring 15 goals and adding eight assists for 23 points in 28 games played.

Prior to joining the Thunderbirds, Bukarts was a standout for the Portland Winterhawks in the Western Hockey League. He scored 26 goals with 27 assists in 55 games for Portland last season after being traded to the Winterhawks by the Brandon Wheat Kings. While he played with the Wheat Kings, Bukarts was teammates with current Thunderbird forward Jayce Hawryluk. 

Bukarts will join the Thunderbirds as they roll into Hartford on Wednesday night for a fourth matchup in less than three weeks against the Wolf Pack. Puck drop is set for 7:00 p.m. ET. 

Interested in being part of the next era of AHL hockey in Springfield? Springfield Thunderbirds 2017-18 Ticket Memberships start as low as $12 per game and feature the most exclusive benefits, including a commemorative jersey and brand new Collectors Mug. For more information, fans may call the Thunderbirds ticket office at (413) 739-GOAL (4625) or visit www.SpringfieldThunderbirds.com.