What an NCAA rule change might mean for junior hockey in Sask.
Nov 18, 2024
Previously, WHL players were declared ineligible to play NCAA hockey in the U.S.
The Regina Pats made a deal with the Kelowna Rockets Tuesday.
The Pats acquired 17-year-old defenceman Jonathan Smart in exchange for 19-year-old defenceman James Hilsendager and 17-year-old prospect forward Erik Gardiner.
Smart, a Kelowna, B.C. product, has played in 63 games in his WHL career. So far this season, Smart has one goal and six assists in 24 games. In his career, he has three goals, 14 assists, and is a plus 21. Smart was a first round pick (22nd overall) by the Rockets in 2014.
Smart was ranked a ‘C’ skater by the NHL’s Central Scouting Service in the November Players to Watch List for the 2017 NHL Entry Draft. He is a potential fourth to sixth round selection.
James Hilsendager has played in 135 WHL regular season games, recording one goal and 17 assists to go along with 124 penalty minutes. In 18 games this season, Hilsendager has three assists and 14 penalty minutes. He was originally drafted by the Pats in the ninth round (187th overall) in 2012.
Erik Gardiner was the Pats second round pick in 2014. He is currently playing with the Humboldt Broncos of the SJHL and has 11 goals and six assists in 20 games.