Look for the Vernon Vipers to potentially get a little air time on Hockey Night in Canada (HNIC).
The Vipers have acquired forward Cole Bieksa – son of HNIC panelist, former Vancouver Canucks blueliner Kevin Bieksa – from the B.C. Hockey League’s Coquitlam Express for a player development fee.
Bieksa, 18, from Vancouver, has recorded three goals and six assists with the Express this season. He also finished his high school career at Fairmont Prep in Anaheim, Cal., on a high note, posting 31 goals and 47 assists for 78 points in 52 games.
“We are excited to add to our ’07 (birth year) group,” said Vipers general manager and head coach Matt Cooke, a former teammate of Bieksa’s dad on the Canucks.
“Cole brings a high hockey IQ and competitiveness that is hard to find. He has the ability to play up and down the lineup and is a player who plays the game the right way.
“Cole has also had the opportunity to watch and be coached by his dad, one of my favourite and most fierce teammates from my playing career.”
The Express thanked Bieksa for his time with the organization, and wished him the best with the Snakes.
“Cole is a great kid who wears his heart on his sleeve, and you don’t find many players today who carry themselves the way he does,” said Tali Campbell, Express president and general manager.
“Ultimately, given the depth of our team this season, Cole deserved a larger opportunity — one we weren’t able to provide here — and we believe this move gives him the best chance to continue his development.”
Bieksa is expected to make his Vernon debut Friday, Jan. 9, when the Vipers host the Cranbrook Bucks. Game time is 7 p.m. at Kal Tire Place.
The Vipers visit the division-leading West Kelowna Warriors Saturday, Jan. 10.
