Cristoforo returns to defence, for now

Anthony Cristoforo says he has never played forward, but has always been an offensive defenceman — a skill set that translated quickly when the Windsor Spitfires needed a lineup adjustment.

Head coach Greg Walters inserted Cristoforo at forward on December 18 against the Soo Greyhounds, and the move paid off immediately. The 19-year-old responded with three goals and an assist, making an instant impact in an unfamiliar role.

“Playing forward has been really fun,” Cristoforo told Powerplay Sports.

With Conor Walton suspended for three games, Cristoforo expects to return to his usual spot on defence Thursday when the Spitfires host the Erie Otters. What happens beyond that remains uncertain.

“We don’t know what’s going to happen after that,” Cristoforo said.

Walters says the fourth-year defenceman has been really good as a forward and isn’t ruling out using him up front again down the road.

“We’ll see how things go. Obviously Cristo’s versatility and his hockey sense is his biggest attributes and he’s able to do both so we’ll do whatever is best for the team,” Walters said.

The Spitfires hit the road Friday for a visit to Saginaw before a highly anticipated matchup against the Brantford Bulldogs, who have been actively bolstering their roster ahead of Saturday’s OHL trade deadline.