WHL Regina Pats

Anze Kopitar will return to Europe this season

September 22, 2005 - Western Hockey League (WHL)
Regina Pats News Release


Regina SK ---- Today the Regina Pats learned that eighteen-year-old Slovenian forward, Anze Kopitar, will return to Europe and play for Södertälje in the Swedish Elite League this season.

Kopitar was the Pats second round draft choice, 61st overall, in the 2005 CHL Import Draft and the Los Angeles Kings first round draft choice, 11th overall in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft.

"We knew it was a long-shot that Anze would join us when we drafted him. With the whirlwind journey that he has been on the last twelve months, he and his family felt more comfortable returning to Sweden for the upcoming season. Despite the Kings encouragement for him to stay in North America and our best efforts, he will continue his development in Europe. We're disappointed, but we appreciate and respect his family's decision," commented Pats GM Brent Parker.

Earlier today, Petr Kalus, the Pats first round European draft choice was returned from the Boston Bruins. Kalus will be in the lineup on Friday night when the Pats open the 2005-2006 season in Brandon.

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Western Hockey League Stories from September 22, 2005


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