Ex-Gade Kraft Sticks with Sharks
October 10, 2002 - ECHL (ECHL)
Richmond Renegades News Release
Richmond, VA â Former Richmond Renegade Ryan Kraft is the latest Renegade alumnus to earn an NHL job. Kraft is on the opening day roster of the San Jose Sharks and could debut tonight when the Sharks open their season vs. the Detroit Red Wings. Five other ex-âGades are on NHL opening day rosters.
Kraft spent most of two seasons (1998-'99 and 1999-'00) as a Renegade. He was a two time ECHL All Star Game pick and helped lead the âGades to the 1999 Kelly Cup Finals. Kraft played in the AHL All Star Game the last two seasons. Kraft is now poised to become the sixteenth former Renegade to play in the NHL.
The other ex-âGades on NHL opening day rosters all have previous NHL experience. They include: Milan Hnilicka (Atlanta), Jamie McLennan (Calgary), Manny Legace (Detroit), Nolan Pratt (Tampa Bay), and J.F. Fortin (Washington).
Fifty former ECHL players are on NHL rosters. 27 of 30 NHL clubs have ex-ECHL players on their opening day rosters.
Four members of last year's Renegades club played in NHL preseason games this year. All four (Nate Forster, Krys Barch, Rastislav Stana with Washington, and Mike Silkenka with Philadelphia) will open the season in the AHL.
The âGades open the 2002-'03 season Friday, October 11 at Trenton. Richmond opens at home on Friday, October 18 vs. Charlotte. Season tickets are now on sale for the Renegades 2002-'03 season. For more information please call the Renegades office at 643-7825.
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