World Junior Pre Tournament game tomorrow
It’s officially World Junior season tomorrow. While the games don’t count until boxing day, it’s the only chance that the players on their nations preliminary rosters have to make an impression.
Nine communities across British Columbia will play host to all ten competing teams during 12 pre-tournament games between December 18th and 23rd, before the puck officially drops December 16th on the 2019 IIHF World Junior Championship in Vancouver and Victoria.
The Lordco Road to the World Juniors pre-tournament starts right here in our backyard. Kelowna will play host to the first game on Tuesday, December 18th between Sweden and Russia at Prospera Place.
With the Rockets having departed for their road trip on Monday, December 10th the arena has been quiet. That will all change Tuesday night as fans fill the bowl to cheer on the teams as they hit the ice for a 7 pm matchup.
Sweden boasts a strong defence filled with highly drafted NHL prospects. They’ll be lead by 2017 Vegas Golden Knights 15th overall pick, Erik Brannstrom. He’s currently playing his first season in North America with the AHL’s Chicago Wolves, the 19-year-old has 20 points (4G, 16A) and 22 penalty minutes in 24 games played.
Meanwhile, Russia will have Washington Capitals 2018 first-round pick, Alexander Alexeyev patrolling their blueline. He’s currently playing with the Red Deer Rebels where he has 31 points (7G, 24A) and 17 penalty minutes in 30 games played.
The Red Machine will have firepower up front in Sharks prospect, Ivan Chekhovich. Currently playing for the QMJHL’s Baie-Comeau Drakkar, Chekhovich was named the Canadian Hockey Leagues Player of the Week for the second time this season on December 10th, he has 55 points (29G, 26A) and 28 penalty minutes in 33 games.
Don’t miss your chance to watch these future stars hit the ice, let’s sell out Prospera and show these European players how loud we can get! Tickets are on sale at selectyourtickets.com, at the Prospera Place box office or by phone at 250-762-5050.
