Describing it as a 鈥渉istoric move,鈥� have signed their first Finnish player.

Announced Tuesday, July 4, the signing of right winger Oskar Komarov by the BCHL franchise comes after the league exited Hockey Canada, a move that will allow teams to bring in talent from the U.S. and overseas.

鈥淭his is an exciting moment for our team,鈥� said Head Coach Burt Henderson. 鈥淜omarov鈥檚 experience in the Finnish U20 SM-sarja league will bring a fresh perspective to our gameplay. His strong performance and dedication to the sport make him a valuable addition to our roster.鈥�

The 19-year-old player from Uusikaarlepyy, Finland, scored 33 points in the 2022-23 season playing with the HIFK U20team.

Associate Head Coach Tyler Kuntz said Komarov鈥檚 his 鈥渨ork ethic and competitiveness, combined with his development in the past few years have been impressive.鈥�

Curt Fraser, 91原创 director of hockey operations, called the signing 鈥渁 significant moment for us as we broaden our horizons and tap into global talent.鈥�

Komarov鈥檚 brother, Leo, has recorded nearly 500 NHL matches from stints with the Toronto Maple Leafs and New York Islanders as well as representing Finland in two Olympic games and more than 50 international contests.

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