Edmonton Oilers defenseman taking break from the NHL for 'mental health reasons'
The Edmonton Oilers reported to training camp this morning, all players were accounted for except for one player. The missing player was Oilers defender, Slater Koekkoek. Koekkoek has played 2 seasons with the Oilers, playing 37 combined games over the two seasons.
After careful consideration over the summer, Slater opted to not report to camp. During his media availability General Manager, Ken Holland offered some information about the young defender.
Slater Koekkoek has taken a break from the Oilers for mental health reasons. Koekkoek's goal is to resume his career with the Oilers when he's ready.
Holland said he's fully supportive of Koekkoek and that mental health is a priority to the organization.
Holland said he's fully supportive of Koekkoek and that mental health is a priority to the organization.
Koekkoek was drafted 10th overall by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2012 NHL Draft. In 186 career games he has 34 points and 104 career penalty minutes.
Hopefully in his time away from the game Koekkoek can find whatever it is he's looking for. His return to hockey is secondary to his mental health.
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