Daily Dose of the DUB: WHL reschedules draft, Winterhawks sale approved, Wheat Kings sign goalie, and more

WHL reschedules WHL Draft

With all the issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, it was inevitable that the WHL U15 Draft became another casualty. The regular draft is scheduled for May every year giving scouts plenty of opportunities to see players through their playoff runs. The change allows for more time to view the 2006 age group.

“Moving the 2021 WHL Draft from May to December allows additional time for players in the 2006 age group to be evaluated following a challenging season due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” commented WHL Commissioner Ron Robison.

Board of Governors approves Winterhawks sale

The Western Hockey League announced the WHL Board of Governors has approved Winterhawks Sports Group (WSG) as the new owners of the Portland Winterhawks franchise effective January 1, 2021.

WSG is led by Michael Kramer and Kerry Preete, who will also be the managing partners.

It was also announced that Winterhawks General Manager and Head Coach Mike Johnston, team President Doug Piper, and all key staff across the three companies will remain with the organization.

“One of our first objectives is to connect with the fans, sponsors, and community leaders to get feedback on the team and its presence in the community,” said Kramer.

Wheat Kings sign Jones

The Brandon Wheat Kings announced the signing of 2019 fifth-round draft pick Nick Jones. This season Jones has been playing for the Calgary Buffaloes U18 AAA team. Through four games he was 4-0-0 with a 1.50 goals-against average and .945 save percentage.

Hockey Harvest 50/50 prize goes to Raiders player’s mother

After much hype and a lot of tickets purchased, the Hockey Harvest Lottery 50/50 draw was completed. The Winner, Lynn Moe, took home $185,365.00. Mrs. Moe is the mother of Prince Albert Raiders forward Spencer Moe.

Wood signs with Grizzlies (BCHL) for 2021-22 season

Regina Pats’ second-round pick at the 2020 WHL Draft, Matthew Wood, has signed with the Victoria Grizzlies of the BCHL. Wood was playing with the North Island Silvertips U18 AA team before the season was paused due to the coronavirus.

Dow released by Nailers

Drydn Dow (222GP, 13G, 50A with Tri-City ’09-’13) has been released by the Wheeling Nailers of the ECHL. Dow played in two games with the Nailers, posting an assist. For the last two seasons, Dow has played for the Dundee Stars in the EIHL where he scored 23 goals and added 56 assists over 106 games.