Thursday, January 26, 2023

Ex Viper Gurkan Named AJHL Rookie Of The Week:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Kurt Gurkan was
 named Alberta Junior Hockey League Rookie of the Week.

Here is the press release from the Alberta Junior Hockey League website,

DANIELSON, WEISS AND GURKAN NAMED AJHL WEEKLY AWARD WINNERS | Alberta Junior Hockey League


Gurkan is in his first season with the Alberta Junior Hockey League Blackfalds Bulldogs. In 18 games, Gurkan has (6-goals-4-assists-10-points).


Gurkan started the 2022-23 season with the Vernon Vipers. Gurkan committed to the Vernon Vipers for the 2022-23 season February 20th 2022. The Vipers traded Kurt Gurkan & David Brandes November 30th 2022 to the Alberta Junior Hockey League Blackfalds Bulldogs for future considerations. In 19 games with the Vipers, Gurkan collected (1-goal-4-assists-5-points).


Kurt Gurkan's Player Profile:


Kurt Gurkan - Elite Prospects

1 comment:

Marty said...

Yes, Kurt looks like he is having a good year. Also look at the stats of David Brandes, 13 points in 18 games. It is nice to see how the cast-off Vernon players are doing well in their new homes where most of them appear to be thriving. It is very normal for recruits, especially ones from lower levels or different programs, to have an adjustment period to the BCHL. Simply being so far from family or their usual support group takes time, something not offered in Vernon . These young players were expected to find their game & excel right out of the gate. Throw in the constant turmoil, trades & releases in the early part of our season, it was a huge factor in the players inability to perform up to their scouting report. It would be interesting to guess how the Vipers would be if Vernon stayed patient & loyal to some of their preseason recruits. Personally I don't think we would be any worse off. I also believe that a lot of our early players were assets that were mismanaged. It is logical that a few would not make the team but not the revolving door that we witnessed and the resulting team record. Trade deadline has passed, McKee finally has his team so let's see him coach some consistent hockey. If we end the year with what we have witnessed so far it will be long overdue for a change. I hear Bruce Boudreau is available.