Edmonton Oil Kings draft Janis Svanenbergs in CHL import draft

The Edmonton Oil Kings drafted one player in the CHL import draft Tuesday selecting Latvian right-winger Janis Svanenbergs.

Svanenbergs, 18, is a 6’3, 190 lb. right-shot, right-winger that scored 25 goals and 40 points in 54 games in the MHL last year with HK Riga.

It included a 12 game stint with Dinamo Riga of the KHL.

“We are very excited to select Janis today,” said Oil Kings GM Kirt Hill.

“He brings size and great experience to our lineup, having played in both the KHL and Russia’s top junior league this past season. Janis is a right-handed-shot forward who can play both center and the wing. A great skater, he has a very good shot and strong puck skills. We are confident that he can step into our lineup and help our team immediately.”

And based on a highlight reel the Oil Kings shared on Twitter, he indeed does have a very, very good shot.

Svanenbergs was selected 58th overall and the Oil Kings passed on their second available pick in the import draft.

On Twitter: @zjlaing