Merkley, Stephens Taken at 2015 NHL Entry Draft

Kelowna Rockets forward Nick Merkley and defenceman Devante Stephens are NHL Draft picks after the conclusion of the 2015 NHL Entry Draft.

After Merkley was a first round selection by the Arizona Coyotes on Friday night, at 30th overall, defenceman Devante Stephens was drafted on Saturday morning during the conclusion of the draft.

Stephens was chosen by the Buffalo Sabres with the first pick of the 5th round, 122nd overall.

Merkley said it was a dream come true to be selected at the NHL Entry Draft.

“I’m super excited. It’s a pretty surreal moment to go in the first round. You dream of it your whole life so I’m super pumped,” he said. “I want to get started with my summer. I haven’t had any time to work out or anything so I’m going to get started this week. I’m excited to get back in the gym.”

For Stephens it was the culmination of a year that saw him race up the prospects charts. The 6-fot-1 Surrey native was coming off an injury in midget before playing in 64 regular season WHL games in his rookie season when he was named the Rockets rookie of the year.

Up next for the Kelowna Rockets is the annual CHL import draft coming up this Tuesday before the Rockets Alumni Foundation hosts its 15th Annual Golf Tournament July 16 and 17.

Golf spots are available for the tournament. For information e-mail [email protected] or call 250-979-0853.