Rocket Trade up to #52 to Acquire Finnish Defenseman Lauri Tokoi
Published on June 30, 2009 under Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL)
P.E.I. Rocket News Release
The PEI Rocket acquired the #52 pick in today's European Entry Draft from the Victoriaville Tigres in exchange for the Rocket's 8th Round Draft Pick in the 2010 QMJHL Entry Draft. The Rocket then used this pick to select another defenseman, Lauri Tokoi from Finland.
The Rocket traded up to ensure that they were able to select the 6'1", 177 pound defenseman. Tokoi was born in Siuro, Finland and is considered one of the top Finnish Prospects for 1991 born hockey players. Two years ago Tokoi suffered a broken collarbone, but returned to form this past season with a very successful year and is now 100% healthy. He played last season with Ilves Tampere in Finland.
"Lauri is a highly touted prospect and we knew that he would not be available if we waited until #79 for our 2nd round pick", said Rocket President Serge Savard Jr. "After he returned from his injury, many teams were interested and we wanted to make sure that we added this depth to our blueline for the coming year".
Tokoi is a two way player, who is an excellent skater that moves the puck very well. He is NHL Draft eligible in 2010 and is expected to be a key contributor to the Rocket blueline this coming season.
Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League Stories from June 30, 2009
- Rocket Trade up to #52 to Acquire Finnish Defenseman Lauri Tokoi - P.E.I. Rocket
- Mooseheads add German defenseman Abeltshauser - Halifax Mooseheads
- Rocket Select Adam Polasek in Euro Draft - P.E.I. Rocket
- Sea Dogs Acquire Galiev, Jurko at CHL Import Draft - Saint John Sea Dogs
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