Springfield, MA– The Springfield Thunderbirds announced on Saturday that they have been loaned forward Jordan LaVallee-Smotherman from the Manchester Monarchs of the ECHL.

 

The 30-year-old LaVallee-Smotherman has 368 games of AHL experience, but has not skated in the league since the 2010-11 season with the Providence Bruins. He has recorded a total of 164 points (78g, 86a) over his AHL career. Prior to his time in Manchester this season, LaVallee-Smotherman had played each of the past five years in Europe in four different professional leagues.

 

In six games with the Monarchs this season, he has already contributed four goals and an assist. Originally a fourth-round draft pick of the Atlanta Thrashers in 2005, LaVallee-Smotherman made four NHL appearances with Atlanta in the 2007-08 and 2008-09 seasons. He also recorded a 20-goal season in the AHL as a member of the Chicago Wolves in 2007-08.

The Thunderbirds hit home ice again on Saturday for the first Teddy Bear Toss in Thunderbirds hockey history, presented by Teddy Bear Pools and Spas. Additionally, tomorrow night's game is Military Appreciation Night, presented by Smith & Wesson.