WHEAT KINGS LOSE MILLER

Press Release

Brandon, MB. – The Western Hockey League’s Brandon Wheat Kings have learned that veteran defenceman Ryley Miller will be lost indefinitely after suffering an injury to his left hand during Saturday’s 9-3 win over the visiting Regina Pats.

Miller’s injury comes less than a week after Brandon’s other veteran blueliner – Brodie Melnychuk – rejoined the active roster. The 19-year old Melnychuk missed twelve games after breaking his left leg in January.

With Miller out of the lineup, the Wheat Kings are left with six blueliners including five rookies – 16-year olds Ryan Pulock and Eric Roy as well as 17-year olds Rene Hunter, Jordan Fransoo and Spencer Galbraith.

Galbraith is expected to be back in the lineup Wednesday after missing the last two games.

In 55 games this season, Miller has eleven assists and a team leading 145 minutes in penalties.

In related news, the hockey club has announced that 15-year old prospect Ayrton Nikkel will arrive in Brandon later today and will spend the balance of the week with the Wheat Kings.

A former second round bantam draft choice of the Blades, Nikkel was one of two highly touted prospects to be acquired from Saskatoon in exchange for all star center Brayden Schenn.

In 52 games with the Pursuit of Excellence Program in Kelowna this season, the 6’ 175 lb Kelowna product has thirteen goals and 41 points. As well, the captured a gold medal with Team BC last week at the Canada Winter Games in Halifax.


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