WHL Portland Winterhawks

O'Brien Back in Portland, Preparing for Season Debut

Published on April 26, 2021 under Western Hockey League (WHL)
Portland Winterhawks News Release


Jack O'Brien of the Portland Winterhawks
Jack O'Brien of the Portland Winterhawks
(Portland Winterhawks)

Portland, OR. - Jack O'Brien has already played 23 games during the most important season of his hockey career to date, but if you ask him, now is where the fun starts.

Officially added to the team's roster on Monday following the culmination of the Lincoln Stars (USHL) season, the first-year NHL draft eligible forward has completed the quarantining process, passed all COVID-related protocols and is thrilled to be back with the club that he experienced growth with last season.

"Oh my god, it feels amazing [to be here]. I love this city," O'Brien joyously remarked following an intense skating session today. "This team is so professional and it feels so great to be back."

The left-handed center, who was ranked #94 on TSN's midseason list of all NHL Entry Draft prospects, began the season in Nebraska under the premise of guaranteed games, a decision that was made during a time of uncertainty for the Western Hockey League in regards to having a 2020-21 season. Undoubtedly a gamble, the native of Denver, CO will now get the best of both worlds though by playing in Portland.

"I faced some adversity [in Lincoln] and I can take a lot of positive things away from that. I hadn't gone through much adversity in my hockey career prior to this year, so later down the road when I'm pro I'll know how to handle it a little better and I think that's very valuable."

Maturity on full display, now it's almost time for "OB" to exhibit his on-ice skills during the final games of the team's regular season. He'll be eligible to play Tuesday night as the Winterhawks host Everett, however, whether he jumps right into the lineup remains to be seen. Should he not dress tomorrow, Friday night against the same Silvertips seems like a safe bet for #92.

"I don't think I was showcasing the player that I am in Lincoln and I'm really hoping to do that here. This is such a great organization, everything is so high class. I know the type of player I can be and I can't wait to show it."

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Jack O'Brien of the Portland Winterhawks
Jack O'Brien of the Portland Winterhawks
   



Western Hockey League Stories from April 26, 2021


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