When the Brandon Wheat Kings begin their main camp later this month, a Helsinki native will make his presence felt.
The organization has confirmed that Marcus Kallionkieli has signed his transfer card. He’s now expected to join the team for the upcoming season.
The 6-foot-2 195 pound Kallionkieli was picked in the first round, 22nd overall by Brandon in the 2019 CHL Import Draft.
Darren Ritchie is the Wheat Kings general manager and he’s pleased that Marcus will be reporting to the team.
“He’s a big winger that can shoot the puck. We think he’ll complement our players very well,” said Ritchie. “He plays a hard game and a fast game. You have to have players that have the ability to score goals and Marcus can.”
Playing in the United States Hockey League with the Sioux City Musketeers last year, Kallionkieli was a near point-per-game player. He had 53 points (29G) in 58 games. His efforts landed him on the All-Rookie All-Star Team. He was also a plus 13.
As he prepares for his first WHL season, Ritchie is confident in his abilities.
“We just want him to come in and get comfortable with his surroundings and teammates,” added Ritchie. “We’re confident that when he gets comfortable, he’ll start to make good things happen.”
Marcus is the third Finnish born player to be selected by the Wheat Kings.
Signing his transfer card wasn’t the only thing Kallionkieli has signed recently. He signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Vegas Golden Knights on July 31.
He was originally picked in the fifth round, 139th overall at 2019 NHL Entry Draft. Marcus is set to join another Golden Knights prospect in Brandon. Jiri Patera is also a Knights prospect and he will return for his second season with the team.
That means he’ll have some familiarity right off the bat, and Ritchie expects the transition period of moving to Brandon won’t take long.
“When you’re in a town like Brandon, the guys are together a lot. I think that’s going to be really easy on him,” he added. “Of course, it will take time because he’s new to the league. I think it’s important to be patient with Marcus, so we will be.”
Kallionkieli will also attend Golden Knights’ training camp in September, alongside Patera.
