The Victoria Royals used the ninth pick in the 2023 CHL Import Draft to select forward Casper Haugen Evensen from Valerenga of the Norway U20 Hockey League.
The 2005-born forward measures in at 5 ‘7’, 168lbs and is a left-hand shot who primarily plays centre.
“He’s a bulldog, stout and sturdy, and very physical and competitive.” said HC Dan Price,
“There was definitely more of a need on wing, and Evensen fills that, while also having the flexibility to play centre if required.”
He appeared in 23 games for Valerenga U20 in the 2022-23 season where he recorded seven goals and 15 assists for a total of 22 points. He also played 11 games in the top professional league in Norway for Valerenga, as well as 16 games for Lorenskog in the second division professional league.
The product of Oslo, Norway has also represented his home country on several occasions including at the 2022 U18 World Junior Championship in Germany.
He also suited up in 15 other games for the Norwegian U18 program throughout the 2022-23 season in which he scored three goals and added five assists for eight points.
“Casper is a very intelligent player who plays with a high level of tenacity and skill. He has the ability to be deployed in all situations and make positive contributions. We are excited to welcome Casper and his family to the Royals.” – J.F. Best, Assistant GM, Director of Player Personnel & Player Development
Armed with valuable international experience, Haugen Evensen is someone who could make an immediate impact for Victoria in the upcoming 2023-2024 season.
Haugen Evensen becomes the 13th player selected by the Royals in the CHL Import Draft:
Casper Haugen Evensen (9th overall – round one – 2023)
Robin Sapousek (7th overall – round one – 2022)
Sebastian Wraneschitz (60th overall – round one – 2021)
Marcus Almquist (27th overall – round one – 2020)
Keanu Derungs (28th overall – round one – 2019)
Phillip Schultz (38th overall – round one – 2018)
Igor Martynov (30th overall – round one 2017)
Vladimir Bobylyov (38th overall – round one – 2015)
Kristian Ferletak (54th overall – round one 2014)
Jiri Fronk (31st overall – round one – 2013)
Patrick Polivka (14th overall – round one – 2012)
Rasmus Bengtsson (74th overall – round two – 2012)
Lucas Kralik (36th overall – round one – 2012)
