Roster Grows With Talented Duo
Bismarck, ND – The Bobcats have announced the additions of forward Lars Rødne and defenseman Sammy Martel.
“I think (Rødne) is a top six forward, I like his skill set,” said Bobcats head coach and general manager Layne Sedevie. “(and) look what Martel did as an 18-year-old in our league. He’s a top-four defenseman.”
Rødne has spent the last five years with the Stavanger Oilers of his native Norway, advancing from the U18 program to the U21 squad. He collected 25 goals and 30 assists in 29 games for the Oilers last year.
“I’m really excited,” Rødne said. “I’m excited to get things going with a great bunch of guys.”
Rødne has also spent time with the Norwegian World Junior teams, putting up three points in five games for their U20 team last season.
“I like to shoot the puck and create chances,” Rødne said. “You’re going to see a lot of offensive plays from me this year, hopefully.”
Martel played in the NAHL during the 2017-18 season for the Topeka Roadrunners, collecting 21 points in 34 games. He spent the past year in the USHL.
“I’ve heard nothing but good things about this organization,” Martel said. “I’ve got a great opportunity to play here, and it’s going to be a lot of fun.”
Martel will join an experienced blue line that brought back several veterans from last season.
“We felt we had a really good defensive core coming back, and obviously if he were to come back to us we could really solidify our core,” Sedevie said. “I would say there are big expectations for both players.”
Catch Rødne, Martel and the Bobcats in action on Friday, September 27th against the Minnesota Wilderness in Bismarck’s home opener. Tickets are on sale now.