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Thunder Signs Rookie Defenseman Nik Pokulok

March 14, 2013 - ECHL (ECHL)
Stockton Thunder News Release


STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, proud ECHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers of the National Hockey League, has signed rookie defenseman Nik Pokulok (POH-kuh-luck), Thunder head coach Matt Thomas announced today. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Pokulok is expected to join the Thunder lineup in time for tomorrow's game at 7:00 p.m. (1280 AM KWSX/StocktonThunder.com) against the Ontario Reign at Citizens Business Bank Arena.

"It's tough to find quality shut down defensemen, especially at this time of year and we like the possibilities that lie ahead for Nik and his game," said Thomas. "His big frame and long reach will help us in our defensive zone and we're expecting him to compliment our current group with a physical edge that can be useful during March and in the playoffs."

Pokulok, a native of Vaudreuil-Dorion, Quebec, joins the Thunder after skating in 133 career games in college with Clarkson University (NCAA), notching 19 points and 189 penalty minutes.

The 6-foot-5 and 225 pound defenseman suited up in 32 games as a 2012-13 senior with the Golden Knights and was one of four players on the program to suit up in all 37 games (career high) as a 2009-10 freshman.

Pokulok's brother, Sasha, was a first round selection (14th overall) by the Washington Capitals in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft and previously skated in the ECHL for South Carolina and Bakersfield.

Pokulok will wear #7 with the Thunder.

A two time recipient of the ECHL "Award of Excellence," the Thunder led the ECHL in attendance for four consecutive seasons and drew over 200,000 fans for the seventh consecutive season in 2011-12. Season Tickets, Group Tickets and Mini-Plans are on sale now. For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit www.StocktonThunder.com.

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