Getting WHLer a treat for Vees

Halloween hasn't arrived but the Penticton Vees received a welcomed treat.

Six-foot-three centre Taylor Peters has joined the team from the Portland Winterhawks who sent him to the Okanagan on assignment.

Peters, who put up eight points in 70 games last season, had seen action in just three games this season.

"They struggled a little bit last year so he got a ton of ice time and played in a lot of defensive situations up the middle against teams best lines throughout the year," said Vees coach-GM Fred Harbinson, during Thursdays Coach's Corner. "This year Portland has really turned their program around. They have added a lot of new faces and was getting in a situation where Taylor wasn't playing enough for a 17-year-old to develop."

And that's what he will get a chance to do with the Vees.

"He's not looking at it as a demotion," said Harbinson, who is excited to have Taylor in the mix. "It's a situation where we had an open spot. We needed another big body that can defend and play well. We think we can help round out Taylor's game by the way we play here and the way we practice as far as his offensive side of the game."

Taylor, a resident of Delta, arrived in Penticton on Thursday with his family and practiced for the first time. Harbinson said he looked good and skates well. The Vees coach was also impressed by the questions the young pivot asked.

"I think he is going to fit in real well," added Harbinson. "I think it's going to be a good fit for both sides."

The Vees and Winterhawks staff discussed the length of Peters stay and it's expected to be the duration of the year. There is only a small chance Peters would be recalled to the WHL club.

The Winterhawks currently sit atop the U.S. division at 12-5 for 24 points with the Tri-City Americans two points behind with three games in hand. Contributing to the success of the Winterhawks is former Vee Ryan Johansen who has seven goals and 16 points in 17 games good enough for sixth in team scoring.