Wichita, KS (Sept. 14th) - The Wichita Thunder, ECHL affiliate of the NHL's Edmonton Oilers, AHL's Bakersfield Condors and powered by Toyota, announced today the signing of forward Jakob Stukel for the 2018-19 season.
"Jakob possesses NHL speed and we are pleased to have him," stated Head Coach Malcolm Cameron. "He will be dangerous off the rush and in the offensive zone. When we were looking at the type of team we wanted to build this year, speed was a definite must. Jakob has that as well as a quick release. The experience he just gained at the New York Rangers rookie camp has him already in tune with the pro game and we expect he will be ready to hit the ground running."
Stukel, 21, split time during his four-year junior career between the Calgary Hitmen and the Vancouver Giants. A native of Surrey, British Columbia, the 6-foot, 190-pound forward had a career season with the Hitmen where he racked up 37 goals and 64 points in 71 games. He's netted 20 goals in three-straight seasons. Overall, he piled up 197 points (103g, 94a) in 265 games.
"I'm really excited to turn pro and have a big year of development," commented Stukel. "I'll work extremely hard to help contribute to the success of the team on and off the ice and look forward to playing in front of the fans in Wichita."
A former sixth-round draft pick (#154) of the Vancouver Canucks in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft, Stukel was invited to rookie camp with the New York Rangers this past week. He also represented Team British Columbia during the Western Canada Challenge Cup in 2012-13.
Opening Weekend is coming fast. Join us for a pair of games to kick off the 2018-19 campaign as the Idaho Steelheads come to INTRUST Bank Arena on October 12th and followed by the Allen Americans on October 13th. Click here to buy tickets!
Season tickets for the 2018-19 campaign are on sale now. Get your seats for just $15 per month. All it takes is a $1 down per seat to reserve yours today. To learn more, click here or contact a Thunder representative at the office today!
Follow along with us on our social media platforms on Facebook, Twitter (@wichita_thunder), Snapchat (wichthunder), Instagram (Wichita_Thunder) and LinkedIn.