One of Okotoks’ brightest hockey stars has caught the eye of an original six team.
Okotoks Oilers forward Quinn Olson was selected in the third round, 92nd overall, by the Boston Bruins at the 2019 NHL Entry Draft June 22 at Vancouver’s Rogers Arena.
“To wear an original six jersey and be a part of the Bruins organization is a dream come true,” said Olson in an Oilers press release. “I know there is more hard work ahead for me to reach that goal of playing in the NHL. I wouldn’t be here without the support of my family, friends, teammates, coaches and everyone surrounding the Oilers organization.
“Okotoks has welcomed me with open arms and has given me every opportunity to succeed at a high calibre level.”
Olson produced 66 points in 54 games, finishing 11th in AJHL scoring in the 2018-19 season. In two seasons in Big Rock Country, he produced 119 points in 114 games.
The Calgarian is committed to attend the University of Minnesota Duluth for the 2019-20 season as the Bulldogs go for a third straight NCAA Frozen Four championship.
The Calgarian was excellent in the CJHL Prospects Game held in January at Pason Centennial Arena, scoring the game-winning goal and showcasing his well-rounded game to the litany of scouts in the stands.
“Two-way centre, has a great pair of legs, has got deceptive speed,” Bruins assistant GM Scott Bradley told media at the draft. “He has excellent vision, can make high-end plays. A little undersized at this time, we’re hoping for some development physically.
“Our guys all liked him, one of those ‘I can’t believe he’s still there.’”
The NHL draft is nothing new for the Olsons.
Quinn’s older brother Kyle Olson was picked in the fourth round of the 2017 draft by the Anaheim Ducks, 122nd overall out of the Tri City Americans program.
Olson is the second highest draft pick out of the Oilers program, behind former teammate and 2018 Ottawa Senators first-round pick Jacob Bernard-Docker, and the eighth in franchise history to have his name called at the draft joining Bernard-Docker, Austin Wong (2018, Winnipeg Jets), Rhett Gardner (2015, Dallas Stars), Rhett Holland (2012, Arizona Coyotes), Derek Rodwell (2009, New Jersey Devils), Corban Knight (2009, Florida Panthers) and Brad Eidsness (2007, Buffalo Sabres).
The versatile forward is attending Bruins development camp this week.
There were two AJHL players selected in the draft with Sherwood Park Crusaders netminder Carter Gylander going in the seventh round to the Detroit Red Wings. All told, 11 skaters in the Canadian Junior Hockey League had their name called in Vancouver.
For more information go to okotoksoilers.ca
