The Toledo Walleye brought back a familiar face on Wednesday, signing defenseman Randy Gazzola to a one-year contract. The Toledo Blade’s Mark Monroe reports that the 27-year old brings size, strength and scoring to the Walleye’s blueline for the second time:
The 6-foot-3, 205-pound defenseman played last season for a team based in Italy. In 44 games with Ritten/Renon, Gazzola had 34 points with 10 goals and 24 assists.
In seven games with Toledo during the 2018-19 regular season, Gazzola had five points (1 G, 4 A). In 24 postseason games, Gazzola contributed eight points (1 G, 8 A).
Walleye coach Dan Watson said Gazzola represents exactly what the organization looks for during the recruiting process.
“Randy is a player who wants to get better, has high expectations and standards of himself, and wants to win. But, more importantly, he is a true leader and a great person,” Watson said. “He will be counted on to play big minutes, like he did during our Kelly Cup run.”
