The Cincinnati Cyclones completed multiple transactions earlier today ahead of their road matchup against the Iowa Heartlanders on Wednesday at 8:00 PM EST.
Justin Portillo, Signed from FPHL
The most notable transaction was the signing of enforcer Justin Portillo, an 8-year pro who has played 26 games this season with the Athens Rock Lobsters (FPHL). He’s not known for his scoring, as he’s put up 136 PIM goals and five assists so far this season. He is expected to bring some grit to the bottom six and provide some muscle when the team needs a spark when down in games down the stretch.
Portillo started his professional career in the Federal Hockey League (FHL) and has logged time with several teams in the FPHL, most notably the Port Huron Growlers during the 2019-20 season when he notched 22 goals and 22 assists over 46 games. Additionally, he has experience in the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL) and even spent some time in the ECHL with the Kansas City Mavericks during the 2021-2022 season.
Cato Heads to 14-Day IR
Cato has had limited appearances this season, with just 15 games played, resulting in one goal and two assists. He’s spent considerable time on the Reserve list, and while he has a decent +4 plus/minus when playing, he’s now headed to injured reserve. The specifics of his absence remain unclear at this point, though.
Sikic Activated from Reserve
Marko Sikic has been a reliable source of depth scoring for the Cyclones so far, scoring five goals and six assists through 39 games, posting a solid +8 plus/minus rating. He’s missed the last couple of games but will likely return to the third line against Iowa on Wednesday. This line is known for hard forechecking and grinding out shifts, often throwing checks and grinding out shifts, yet it remains to be seen if Coach Payne will make any changes, especially with the team in the midst of a four-game losing streak.
MacLean Placed on Reserve
Steven MacLean has stepped up as a solid depth defenseman this season, recording six assists and a +3 plus/minus over 23 games. Standing at 6’7″ and weighing 216 lbs, he’s brought a physical presence to the back end so far. However, as the season progresses, the entire defensive core must ramp up their physicality. Right now, this team is in desperate need of offensive production to get back into the winning column.
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