The Prince George Spruce Kings checked a couple of items from their off-season grocery list.
Today (Wednesday) PG confirmed the commitment of 20-year-old defenseman Ozbej Rep.
He is from Jesenice, Slovenia who played the last two seasons for Södertälje SK J20 in the Sweden J20 National league.
Over the last two years, Rep has put up 11 goals and 42 assists in 87 games.
At this years IIHF World Under-20 Division 1-A tournament, Ozbej represented Slovenia for a second straight year while also suiting up for five additional games with the men’s national team.
“I’m very excited to join Prince George for the upcoming season. I want to thank all the staff for believing in me and giving me this opportunity. I’ve heard so many great things about the organization and the work they do and I can’t wait to become a part of it,” added Rep.
In addition, the BCHL club inked 20-year-old forward Tai Ushio from Japan.
He spent the last two seasons with the Anchorage Wolverines of the North American Hockey League. In 87 games, Tai put up 45 goals and 42 assists for 87 points. He also added 5 goals and 5 assists in 14 playoff games.
In addition, Ushio represented Japan at the U-18, U-20, and Men’s levels, playing in 31 games, scoring 20 times and adding 9 assists.
He earned the Best Forward award while recording the most goals and most points at the 2025 IIHF World Under-20 Division 1-B tournament.
Ushio is committed to University of Alaska-Fairbanks for 2026-2027.
“Tai is a gifted player who will add a lot of skill to our forward group. He will be leaned upon heavily to help drive our offense while also contributing in all areas of the ice. He is a a great addition to our program,” stated Mike Hawes, Spruce Kings general manager.
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