With many players announced already including the returns of Scott Conway and JJ Piccinich, Adam Keefe has announced the signings of Zak Galambos and Joe Cassetti. Both of these players were playing in the NCAA last season and are set to make their professional debut for the Giants this season. As the Giants aim to create a title winning squad for the 2024/2025 campaign, all heads will be turned to see if Galambos and Cassetti can strike up gold in Belfast.
Firstly, to look at defenceman Zak Galambos. Galambos, who spent the 2023/2024 season at Western Michigan University (WMU),will be a key player for the Giants as his points production for a defenceman is very impressive. The 27 year old scored 21 points in 38 games last season for WMU. A trip to Belfast could be a huge success for Galambos as he looks to build a foundation to defend and attack. With 5 of 6 defenseman already signed by Keefe, it is shaping up to be an attack-heavy team. Galambos is likely to play with Belfast returnee Jeff Baum with Baum returning for his fourth season in teal. Along with other attack minded players such as Gabe Bast, there will be plenty of points on offer at the back from Belfast this season.
Now moving onto forward Joe Cassetti. Cassetti also played the 2023/2024 season at Western Michigan University alongside Galambos. Although he is 2 years younger than the defenceman, Cassetti will offer lots to the Giants roster as his big size can tourment defensive units. Cassetti was undrafted after he was left unpicked in the 2017 NHL Entry Draft. Cassetti isn’t going to be a top point scorer for the Giants but he will contribute in other ways. Similarly to the way Scott Allen played for the Sheffield Steelers last season. Using his size and hockey IQ to effectively kill penalties and work the corners very well. In the 2023/2024 campaign, the 6’4” winger registered 17 points in 38 games for WMU. Cassetti will be a good option for a third line alongside Ciaran Long. This is a good option to have for Adam Keefe as this would be a good grinding unit.
With the additions of Zak Galambos and Joe Cassetti, Adam Keefe continues to build a formidable Giants squad for the 2024/2025 campaign. Galambos, with his impressive points production as a defenceman, and Cassetti, with his imposing size and defensive capabilities, are poised to make significant contributions in their professional debuts. As the Giants aim for a title-winning season, the focus will be on how these new signings integrate with the returning core and if they can elevate the team's performance. With a blend of offensive firepower and defensive strength, Belfast fans have every reason to be optimistic about the season ahead. Keefe's strategic signings indicate a well-rounded and competitive team ready to challenge for the top honours.
Author of Article: Will Harris
Editor: Calan Yule
Proofread By: Calan Yule
© EIHL News Central
Comments