Johnstown, PA — The Johnstown Tomahawks have acquired defenseman Drew Peterson (2006, 6’3”, Right Defense) from the El Paso Rhinos in exchange for a 2026 second-round draft pick.
Peterson appeared in 11 games for El Paso this season, recording 1 goal and 2 assists. The Prince George, British Columbia native previously played for Prince George (WHL) and Bonnyville (AJHL).
“Peterson is a player our scouting staff has followed since his 16-year-old season with the Arizona Coyotes,” said Gary Biggs, President of Hockey Operations. “His size, physicality, puck-moving ability, and composure in the defensive zone are exactly what we need right now. Having played in the CHL and found tremendous success this year with El Paso, Drew was a must-add for our team.”
In addition to acquiring Peterson, the Tomahawks are pleased to announce the return of defenseman Kirby Perler (2007) from the Sioux City Musketeers (USHL). Perler appeared in 58 games for Johnstown last season and dressed in every playoff game. “Kirby should pick up right where he left off last season,” Biggs added. “He quickly developed into one of the top defenders in the league in a short time. With Yale University trusting our staff with his development, we’re looking for Kirby to take another big step forward this year.”
Biggs also emphasized the importance of experience on the blue line. “One thing we recognized during this recent stretch was our inexperience on the back end,” he said. “We have a lot of young talent that’s still maturing. Adding Perler and Peterson — who combine for over 100 games played at the NAHL level or higher — will help stabilize our defensive zone.”
Biggs expressed confidence in the team’s direction moving forward: “I love where our defensive core is right now. We have a great blend of youth and experience. With only one 20-year-old on the blue line (Sean Morgan), this is a group that will continue to grow as the season progresses. Combined with our elite goaltending, we expect to be much tougher to score against moving forward.”