Good news for Vanderhoof’s minor hockey system.
If and when the 2020-21 season begins, Linden Makow will be suiting up in red, white and blue as the forward is joining the Prince George Spruce Kings roster a season earlier.
In November 2020, the 16-year-old forward, developed by the Cariboo Cougars system, signed with the junior ‘A’ club for the 2021-22 campaign.
However, with the continued uncertainty of COVID-19 and its delay on a BCHL schedule, Darwin Lakoduk has decided to head south of the border for a jumpstart on his collegiate career with American International College (AIC) of the NCAA.
The Edmonton product is set to remain at AIC for the rest of its season, ending his brief stint in B.C.’s northern capital.
“Darwin is a tremendous young man and a great player, and this opportunity will enhance his development,” said Spruce Kings General Manager Mike Hawes in a team statement.
“I know that the BCHL will get to a point that we will have a season, but Darwin will benefit from the fact that AIC is currently playing games.”
Lakoduk was acquired from the Penticton Vees by Prince George in the summer.
During the extended preseason, the 20-year-old posted five points in seven games, all assists.
Makow finished fourth on the Cariboo U-16 Cougars’ 2019-20 stats sheet with 37 points in 26 games, including 23 goals.
“Linden is a fast, gritty, competitive, and a quality human,” said Spruce Kings Head Coach Alex Evin.
“We believe he has the potential to be a very effective forward in the BCHL and we are glad he chose our program to develop into a future NCAA player.”
Current B.C. public health orders are extended until Feb. 5, 2021, which includes no travel for sports, no fans and only non-contact practices and training sessions.
