If was a busy afternoon for the Red Deer Rebels at the WHL Bantam Draft.

Along with drafting forward Ethan Rowland in the first round, the Rebels added some offence by re-acquiring Mason McCarty from the Saskatoon Blades.

The 20-year-old spent his first two years in the league with the Rebels where he managed just three points in 15 games.

Coming back, he said he has a lot to prove.

“When I heard Red Deer, I was pretty excited. Last time wasn’t the way I would have planned things to go, but this time I’m definitely a different player and a different person.”

 “I’m excited to contribute to the team this year.”

McCarty scored 21 goals last year and had 37 points in just 45 games.

His plan is to carry his offensive prowess into the new season with the Rebels.

“I think I’ve emerged as a goal scorer now. I can provide a lot of offence and I thought I was breaking out until injuries, but that’s going to happen.”

“It’s not only offence that’s important, you need to be a two-way player and you have to contribute defensively.” 

Coming back as a veteran, McCarty understands his role inside the locker room.

“Just showing them (younger players) what it’s like. The league isn’t easy, there’s a lot of preparation heading into game day with how you treat your body, but most importantly I’ll try leading by example.”

McCarty is listed at 5’9 and weighs in at 185 pounds. He hails from Blackie, Alberta.