BELLIES ACQUIRE PACE, SHOEMAY IN BLOCKBUSTER TRADE WITH LAKERS

New Westminster, B.C. – February 6, 2025 – The New Westminster Salmonbellies have finalized a major trade with the Burnaby Lakers, acquiring forward Tyler Pace and defender Patrick Shoemay in exchange for Keegan Bal, Tyson Kirkness, and Isaac Richmond.

“This is one of the biggest trades in the WLA in recent years,” said Salmonbellies President and General Manager Ray Porcellato. “It’s incredibly tough to part with a cornerstone player like Keegan Bal and young talent like Tyson and Isaac, but we loved the chemistry Patrick brought to our roster during our Mann Cup run in 2023, and we know Pace is a proven offensive leader.”

The move reunites Pace with fellow Calgary Roughnecks teammate Haiden Dickson, giving the right-handed offensive duo a chance to build on their NLL chemistry during the summer. “We’re excited to see them on the floor together,” added Porcellato. “You can’t put a price on chemistry.”

Meanwhile, in Burnaby, the trade provides Isaac Richmond the opportunity to play alongside his younger brother, Silas Richmond, who was selected first overall by the Lakers in last week’s WLA draft.

Both Bal and Pace are recognized offensive stars in the NLL but did not compete in the WLA last season. Pace played summer lacrosse with Ladner, where he helped lead the Pioneers to their third straight President’s Cup under the guidance of now-Salmonbellies Assistant GM Chris Hackel. In 2023-24, Pace tallied 24 goals, 50 assists, and 39 loose balls with the Roughnecks and is on pace to match those numbers this season despite missing a game.

“He’s accustomed to playing in high-powered offenses under elite coaching,” said Porcellato. “He moves the ball well, scores in multiple ways, and understands what it takes to win championships.”

Shoemay, a core member of the NLL San Diego Seals’ defense, has yet to see action in 2024-25 but had a standout 2023-24 season, recording 116 loose balls, 16 caused turnovers, and 14 blocked shots.

“He was a major factor for us when we acquired him in 2023, and it was tough to see him return to Burnaby under the terms of that deal,” Porcellato said. “Quite frankly, we felt he belonged in a Salmonbellies uniform, so it’s great to have him back.”

While excited about the incoming talent, Porcellato took a moment to thank the departing players.

“We pride ourselves on fostering a family atmosphere, which makes saying goodbye difficult,” he said. “Keegan, Tyson, and Isaac poured their hearts into this team, and we can’t thank them enough for their contributions.”

With the addition of Pace and Shoemay, the Salmonbellies continue their pursuit of a record 25th Mann Cup, further solidifying their commitment to championship-calibre lacrosse.