Peterborough Petes Select Rio Kaiser 28th Overall In the 2023 Canadian Hockey League Import Draft

From Germany to Canada, defenceman Rio Kaiser has been selected by the Peterborough Petes, 28th overall in the 2023 Canadian Hockey League Import Draft announced on Wednesday afternoon.

The 6’7” Berlin, Germany native spent most of the 2022-23 season with EC Red Bull Salzburg U20 in Austria. In 18 games this season with EC Red Bull Salzburg, the 16-year-old scored four goals and eight assists for 12 points. Kaiser has appeared on the German U16, U17 and U18 national teams, tacking on a goal in five appearances.

“We were very excited to be able to select Rio,” said Michael Oke, Petes general manager. “He’s a big, young defenceman who skates well and we believe the Peterborough Petes would be an excellent option for him to continue his development.”

Rio is the second player selected by the Petes out of Red Bull Hockey Academy in Austria. The 2022 first-round import pick Tommy Purdeller came from the same program.

Peterborough originally held the 31st pick however three teams ahead of the Petes passed. That bumped the Petes to the 28th selection. The defending OHL Champions elected to pass on their second-round pick in the draft as Tommy Purdeller will occupy the other import slot on the team.

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