Chiefs Pick Young Slovakian

Wed., July 5, 2000

The Spokane Chiefs selected Ratislav Lipka, 17, in Tuesday’s CHL European Draft. Lipka, a 6-foot 1, 170-pound center, scored 11 goals and 27 points in 40 games last year with Slovan Bratislava in Slovakia.

“This year our pick was deeper in the draft which didn’t allow us the opportunity to select an older, more experienced player. At the same time, we’re excited that a young player like Lipka was available,” said general manager Tim Speltz about the 17th pick. “He is going to be a nice part of the Chiefs future, while gaining valuable experience next season.”

Spokane acquired the pick from Portland as part of the Jason LaBarbera transaction at last year’s trade deadline. The Chiefs were originally sched uled to select 43rd in the draft.

Lipka was an underage player on Slovakia’s under-18 National Team at last year’s Viking Cup in Alberta. He will be eligible for the 2001 NHL Entry Draft. The CHL Import Draft consists of all three leagues in the CHL picking based on last season’s standings.

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Chiefs Pick Young Slovakian

Jesse Tinsley

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