WHL Edmonton Oil Kings

Oil Kings Busy In First Round Of 2010 Import Draft

Published on June 29, 2010 under Western Hockey League (WHL)
Edmonton Oil Kings News Release


Edmonton, AB- Edmonton Oil Kings General Manager, Bob Green, is pleased to announce that with their two first round picks, fourth and 19th overall, of the 2010 CHL Import Draft they have chosen defenceman Marek Hrbas, and forward Kristians Pelss.

Hrbas, who is from the Czech Republic was selected fourth overall by the Oil Kings. The 5'11'' defenceman suited up last season for Fargo of the USHL, where in 40 games he tallied 15 points (4G, 11A) and 32 PIM. General Manager Bob Green expects the 17 year old to make an impact.

"Marek is great on the power play, he's a good kid, with good character," said Green. "He's a smart puck moving defenceman, and we expect him to contribute to our team next season."

Each team in the CHL is permitted to carry two European import players each season, the order of selection is rotated between the three leagues based on standings from last season.

With the 19th pick the Oil Kings selected Kristians Pelss, a forward from Latvia who spent last season playing for Dynamo Jr.

Pelss might be familiar to Edmonton Oiler fans, he was selected in the seventh round (181st overall) of this year's NHL Entry Draft.

"I saw him in Belarus, he's a little unknown here, but he's a very explosive player" said Green of the 5'11'' forward. "He's a strong player with a good shot, who likes to shoot and can score."

Previous selections in the import draft include forward Robin Soudek, former Oil King Tomas Vincour who recently signed with the Dallas Stars, and Robin Figren who is currently in the New York Islanders system.

The Edmonton Oil Kings will kick off the 2010-11 season on September 24 when the Red Deer Rebels come to Rexall Place. Tickets for this game and season tickets are available at www.oilkings.ca or by calling 780-414-GOAL.




Western Hockey League Stories from June 29, 2010


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