Rebels’ Zaitsev excited to shine for Russia at Hlinka Gretzky Cup
Oleg Zaitsev is being counted on to play a big role for Team Russia at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup.
The highly-touted 17-year-old forward is also getting an early taste of Red Deer after being selected by the Rebels in round one of the 2018 CHL Import Draft.
“The emotions are exceptional,” Zaitsev said through a team translator after practice at the Servus Arena on Friday. “Red Deer is a very nice city, and I’m very excited to be here.”
He’s a big kid, listed at 6’1” and 185 pounds, who’s anxious to hit the ice with the Rebels when training camp opens later this month.