Five Hitmen taken in 2014 NHL Entry Draft

From the Hitmen Office:

The Calgary Hitmen Hockey Club proved to be a pipeline of talent for the 2014 National Hockey League Entry Draft.

When the dust settled on proceeding at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania five members of the Hitmen were taken by NHL teams.

Following Friday’s first round selections of Jake Virtanen, sixth overall by the Vancouver Canucks, and Travis Sanheim 17th overall by the Philadelphia Flyers, three more Hitmen had their name called on Saturday.

Ben Thomas, who was a co-winner of Hitmen Rookie of the Year honours this past season, was drafted in the fourth round, 119th overall, by the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Then in the sixth round a pair of Hitmen went back-to-back with Chase Lang going 167th overall to the Minnesota Wild followed by Radel Fazleev 168th to the Philadelphia Flyers.

The five selections tied the mark for the most picks from any one team in the Canadian Hockey League this season and will go down as one of the most successful draft classes in franchise history.  Only the 1999 draft produced more NHL picks from the Hitmen with six.

“This is a memorable day in the 19 year history of the Hitmen franchise to have five players selected in the same draft, said Mike Moore, Hitmen General Manager and Vice President of Business Operations.  “We couldn’t be happier with the success of these players and the strides they have made in their pursuit of one day playing in the National Hockey League.  On behalf of the entire Calgary Flames organization, I would like to congratulate each of them on this tremendous accomplishment and commend the work of all involved in identifying their talent and influencing their development.  We have big expectations for the 2014-2015 campaign and expect all five members of this draft class to play a major role for the Hitmen as we enter our 20th anniversary season.”

Calgary Hitmen season tickets for the 20th anniversary season are available now at the Scotiabank Saddledome box office.  In appreciation for the continued support the Hitmen receive from the community, the purchase or renewal of select 2014-15 season ticket packages will include a complimentary premium 20th anniversary jersey.  For more ticket information or to order a limited edition jersey, visit www.hitmen20.com or call 403-777-4646.