The Kelowna Rockets fortified their lineup with two picks in the 2024 WHL U.S. Priority Draft.
The Rockets added two promising forwards, Colton Lien, and Drew Larioza, to their roster on Wednesday (May 8).
With their first-round pick (11th overall), the Rockets secured Colton Lien, who brings an impressive track record from his time with Okanagan HA Colorado 14U AAA of the CoAH14.
At just 15 years old, Lien tallied 24 points (10 goals, 14 assists) with 30 penalty minutes across 17 games this season. He also played for the Littleton Hawks 14UA AA squad.
- Position: Forward
- Height: 6’2
- Weight: 165 lbs
- Birthdate: 2009
In the second round (33rd overall), the Rockets turned to Drew Larioza to further bolster their forward lines. Larioza, standing at 5’10, comes from the San Jose Jr Sharks 14U AAA team.
During the 2023-24 season, Larioza amassed 55 points (28 goals, 27 assists) and 48 penalty minutes in 36 games.
- Position: Forward
- Height: 5’10
- Weight: 160 lbs
- Birthdate: 2009
Larioza’s also skated with Pioneer High in the USHS-CA league.
Players eligible for the 2024 WHL U.S. Priority Draft hail from various states. Players who weren’t selected remain eligible for the WHL Prospects Draft or can be listed by a WHL club at any time.
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