Nelson Leafs

Man in white hat sits in front of a microphone on a table in front of a blackboard.

Nelson Leafs focussed on 2024-25 season after early playoff exit

March 8, 2024 by Scott Onyschak

The Nelson Leafs disappointing season ended last week losing in the first round of the playoffs to the Grand Forks Border Bruins four games to one.

Although the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League (KIJHL) playoffs are still underway, the Leafs have moved their focus to next season. Head coach Briar McNaney is in Penticton this weekend to scout the Canadian Sport School Hockey League (CSSHL) U17 playoffs.

McNaney, who is currently in negotiations to renew his contract with the team, expects several roster changes in 2024-25. Five 2003 born players have aged out and are evaluating college options and nine players are entering their age 20 season but the league allows for only six 20 year olds on the roster.

There could be changes to the coaching staff as well. McNaney mentioned that everyone is currently under evaluation.

Brick wall with a green sign saying Home of the Nelson Leafs.

Nelson Leafs acquire offensive defenceman from the 100 Mile House Wranglers

December 10, 2023 by Scott Onyschak

The Nelson Leafs have acquired defenceman Memfis Burgeson from the 100 Mile House Wranglers in a recent trade.

Burgeson, a 19-year-old player from Sherwood Park, Alberta, has shown promise with 8 points in 24 games this season, his second in the KIJHL. The Leafs’ general manager Lance Morey believes that Burgeson’s offensive skills will greatly benefit the team, as they have been lacking in that area this season.

In exchange for Burgeson, the Wranglers will receive defenceman Nolan Wytrykusz, an 18-year-old rookie who has contributed 3 points in 20 games this year.

This trade will help the Leafs address their defensive issues and create a more balanced lineup. Morey noted, the team has been dealing with injuries to their defence throughout the season, and they have also lost a player due to personal reasons. As a result, they have had to play players out of their usual positions.

Nelson Leafs to open season against the Revelstoke Grizzlies

September 22, 2023 by Scott Onyschak

The Nelson Leafs play their first game of the season tonight against the Revelstoke Grizzlies.

They started training camp with 47 players and have cut the roster down to 25. Two local players Seamus Boyd and Drake Proctor made the team.

In the pre-season, the Leafs won one game and lost three. This year’s version of the Leafs will see two new coaches joining Head Coach Briar McNaney’s staff. Former Leaf Cole Arcuri is in his first season as a coach, and Russell Sanderson joins the team from the Campbell River Storm.

“I have a lot of trust in these guys and I’m giving them as much [responsibility] as they can handle,” Mcnaney says.

McNaney joined CJLY to discuss the upcoming season and preview tomorrow’s game against Revelstoke.

Nelson Leafs focussed on 2024-25 season after early playoff exit

Nelson Leafs acquire offensive defenceman from the 100 Mile House Wranglers

Nelson Leafs to open season against the Revelstoke Grizzlies

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