It was revealed by the Sheffield Star today that Steelers star forward Mark Dutiaume was leaving the Sheffield team to join another Elite league team. The Star reported that, “there was speculation in Northern Ireland today that Belfast Giants may be the team that benefits from his change of heart. Ed Courtenay is keen on adding a big name to his championship-winning squad.”

Dutiaume, 29, who finished top Elite league goal scorer two years ago, would be a huge asset to the Giants as the league champions search to replace Theo Fleury on the top line.

Origionally drafed in 1995 by the Buffalo Sabres in round two number 42nd overall the 6ft, 200lbs left winger played his junior hockey in Brandon before spells in the AHL, UHL and ECHL. It was in the 2000-2001 season he first made his move to this side of the pond to play with the London Knights.

Dutiaume has played five season in Sheffield since 2001-2002 with his first season beginning in Fife and his forth in Sheffield beginning in Italy with Bolzano. As a Steeler he has picked up 80 goals, 119 assists for 199 points in 174 regular season games. He has also helped the Yorkshire team to the playoff title in 2002 and 2004, the league title in 2004, the Challenge cup in 2003 and the British Cup in 2006.

It’s believed Dutiaume and ex-Steelers coach Dennis Maxwell did not see eye to eye and this may be the reason the Canadian, from Winnipeg is looking to move on.

It would yet again show the Giants ability and ambition to sign the best players in the league.

Category: Uncategorized » Rumours |

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