A week from tonight, the puck will drop on another WHL regular season.

 

     Next Thursday, the Kootenay Ice will host the defending Memorial Cup and Ed Chynoweth Cup Champion Spokane Chiefs in the first game of the season.

     WHL Commissioner Ron Robison says this year, more than ever, will showcase some great young talent.  "We think it's (young talent) the best it's ever been.  We demonstrated in the past years, the prominent position we have in the NHL draft with the number of players selected.  This year will be no exception.  We have some great young prospects who will certainly be 1st round selections, and our fans will have the opportunity to watch them throughout the season."

     Last year, the WHL had nine players taken in the 1st round of the NHL Draft, and 37 in total.