KELOWNA, B.C. – Just as the Kelowna Rockets were about to take to the ice Tuesday night against the Red Deer Rebels, the team announced Nick Merkley was out for the season.
The Rockets forward underwent a number of tests by medical staff and was diagnosed with a torn Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL), according to General Manager Bruce Hamilton.
The team says Merkley’s injury was the result of a collision during the February 5 game against the Spokane Chiefs.
“He’ll be going down to Phoenix here shortly and the Phoenix Coyotes who have signed him will carry it on from here,” said Hamilton. “But it’s a huge loss to our hockey club, you know, one of our best players. Not a great injury for a young guy to get early in his career.”
Hamilton says Merkley will receive medical care and rehab under the direction of the Coyotes.
The Rockets went on to defeat the Rebels 3-1 at Prospera Place, winning its 40th game of the season.
Kelowna plays a home and home series with the Vancouver Giants, with the first game in Kelowna Friday and the second Saturday in Vancouver.