Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Oliver Gabriel To Undergo Shoulder Surgery

Press Release

Portland Winterhawks forward Oliver Gabriel will undergo surgery to repair a right shoulder dislocation and will miss the remainder of the season. Gabriel originally suffered the injury in October, then reaggravated it on January 15 in Portland’s 5-2 win in Kamloops.

“Oliver had been having an outstanding season and is incredibly disappointed to have to undergo this surgery,” said Portland Winterhawks General Manager & Head Coach Mike Johnston. “Oliver is a true WHL success story- he was undrafted in the Bantam Draft and worked his way into the league. He was undrafted by the NHL but eventually earned a contract. That work ethic will enable him to overcome this injury and continue his career.”

In 41 games this season Gabriel, 19, set career-highs with 11 goals and 21 assists for 32 points. He began the season in training camp with the National Hockey League’s Columbus Blue Jackets as an undrafted free agent. He played well enough to see action in two preseason games for the Blue Jackets, scoring one goal. He eventually earned a contract with the Blue Jackets, signing a three-year deal on October 7.

In three seasons with the Winterhawks, Gabriel has 27 goals and 40 assists for 67 points in 132 games, and registered six points in 13 playoff games last season.

Full season, 18, 10 and 5-game ticket plans for the 2010-11 season are on sale now. Group rates start at just 10 people and every ticket includes a free Winterhawks hat. Contact the Winterhawks at 503-236-HAWK or seats@winterhawks.com to secure the best seats.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

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