The Kelowna Rockets are gearing up for a challenging week, starting with a crucial three-game road trip in Penticton. After a strong performance in Vancouver, the team is eager to maintain their momentum. The Rockets will face the Penticton Vees, a surprising contender in the Western Hockey League, on Wednesday at the SOEC.
The Vees, tied with Victoria at the top of the BC Division with 19 points, have been a force to be reckoned with. They've only suffered three regulation losses in their last 10 games, showcasing their defensive prowess. Meanwhile, the Rockets, despite their struggles, are healthier than ever and ready to turn their fortunes around.
This game marks the debut of the newly acquired defenceman Payton Kettles, who was acquired in a trade with the Swift Current team. The Rockets' strategy involved sending Jackson Gillespie and five draft choices to Swift Current. With Kettles returning from a two-game suspension, the team is now complete and ready to take on the challenge.
The Rockets have a history of success against the Vees, having won two out of three meetings, including a thrilling shootout victory in September. However, the Vees have their own tricks up their sleeves, having split their previous two encounters with the Rockets. The team's ability to adapt and perform in away games will be crucial.
Following the Penticton game, the Rockets will travel to Victoria for a doubleheader against the Royals on Friday and Saturday night. The Rockets' journey continues, with no return to Kelowna until a week later, when they'll face the Lethbridge Hurricanes in a three-game weekend showdown.
