MATTY DAVIES acknowledges his decision to replace Hull Seahawks’ import forward Kaden Hanas just one week into the 2024-25 NIHL National season will be viewed as ruthless - but insists he has made the move to improve the team’s chances of landing silverware.

The 24-year-old Canadian forward enjoyed a fruitful first weekend of the season for the Seahawks, posting four goals and an assist in the team’s two wins over Bristol Pitbulls.

But, just a few days later, the right-hander has found himself cast aside, with Davies having already secured another import forward to replace him in the shape of Johnny Corniel.

The 27-year-old centre enjoyed a productive season with Manchester Storm in the Elite League season, but, much like Hanas at Hull, found himself on the outside looking in this time around.

INCOMING: Johnny Corneil has made the switch from Manchester Storm in the Elite League to NIHL National's Hull Seahawks. Picture courtesy of Mark Ferriss/EIHL Media.

He posted nine goals and 11 assists in 62 appearances for the Storm, but is moving on after just one game this season and joins Hull on a season-long loan.

Davies - in a move which is a further signal of Hull’s intentions to win something in 2024-25 - has worked fast to bring in a player he believes will prove to be one of the best in the second tier.

“It doesn’t look great and I didn’t know this scenario was coming up with Johnny,” said Davies. “It was just one of them where I had to do what I feel is best for the team.

“It’s nothing to do with how Kaden has played, he’s been brilliant and he’s probably been exactly what I thought he was going to be, if I’m honest.

MOVING ON : Kaden Hanas has been released by Hull Seahawks after just one weekend of the 2024-25 NIHL National season. Picture courtesy of Seahawks Media/Adam Everitt.

“Everything he did was what I wanted him to do, but this opportunity with Johnny has come up and I feel that we just can’t miss out on it.

“Kaden is one type of player and Johnny is a bit more than that. I believe he’s going to be one of the best players in this league. His resume is right up there - he’s got a really good pedigree.

“He had a decent year in Manchester but I don’t think he got the offensive minutes that maybe a player like him would need in that league. I believe he suits this league more than the Elite League.”

Corneil remains part of the Storm organisation while at Hull and will split his time between Manchester and Hull, continuing to train with the Storm in the early part of the week.

In a statement, the Storm said: “The agreement sees Johnny join the Seahawks on an agreement that will enable him to get more ice time and play in all situations whilst adding firepower to a Hull team that is chasing trophies this season.

“He will continue to skate in Manchester and will remain part of the Storm organisation as Manchester continue to develop strong ties with the Seahawks.”

Hull go into the second weekend of the campaign top of the standings, following up an 11-4 win at Bristol Pitbulls with a 9-1 victory over the same opponents.

Saturday sees them remain on home ice for the visit of Telford Tigers, before hitting the road on Sunday to take on Solway Sharks.

Hull Seahawks coach Matty Davies explains decision to make early import change