Phantoms trade for Ice Diggers’ Nielsen

Mahoning Valley gave up rookie defenseman Zack Barbis.

BOARDMAN — The Mahoning Valley Phantoms have traded rookie defenseman Zack Barbis to the Alpena Ice Diggers for veteran blue liner Carl Nielsen.

“It was a tough trade for us, and it was something we really had to take our time with,” said Phantoms assistant coach Curtis Carr. “We feel that Zack Barbis has a great future and when we sat down and thought about it, it was the best move for him to get put in a situation where he can get some more ice time this year, and Alpena is a program that is close to the school that is showing the most interest in him.”

Nielsen, 19, comes to the Phantoms with 49 games of experience at Alpena, spanning two seasons and a playoff series. Nielsen, a native of Lorain, is excited to move closer to home and get an opportunity with the Phantoms.

“I think the Phantoms have a great team here, Nielsen said. “We’re definitely in contention for a national championship. I hope to be a big, physical presence, put my body on guys and get the job done.”

Nielson is 6-foot-4, 215 pounds, and the Phantoms coaching staff is excited about the added size to their defensive unit, and are impressed with Nielsen’s ability in leading the Ice Diggers to the second-best power play in the NAHL.

“For a big strong kid, he is very skilled — he ran Alpena’s powerplay and has a great shot from up top,” said Carr. “I just think Carl gives us an added dimension because of his size and his overall natural ability as well.”

The Phantoms return to play with two games against the U.S. National Under-17 Team Friday and Saturday at the Ice Zone. Both games are scheduled to begin at 7:15 p.m.