Brandon, MB. — After learning that veteran center John Quenneville is on his way back to Brandon, the Western Hockey league’s Wheat Kings have received some more welcome news.

Florida has announced that 18-year old Jayce Hawryluk has been assigned to the WHL club after an impressive training camp and pre-season showing with the National Hockey League’s Panthers.

A second round choice (32nd overall) of the Panthers in June’s NHL Draft, Hawryluk was in the lineup Wednesday night as Florida dropped a 4-3 Overtime Shootout decision to the Dallas Stars. The 5’10” 197 lb Roblin product picked up a minor penalty and had one shot on goal in the game.

A former scoring star with the Parkland AAA Midget Rangers, Hawryluk led Brandon in scoring last season with career highs in goals (24), assists (40) and points (64).

Hawryluk, who was chosen by Brandon in round two of the 2011 WHL Bantam Draft, is expected to be back in Manitoba later today and could rejoin the club in time for Friday night’s game against the visiting Saskatoon Blades.

On Wednesday night, the New Jersey Devils assigned Quenneville to the Wheat Kings. The 18-year old Edmonton product was the Devils’ first round selection in June’s NHL Draft.

Tickets to Friday’s game are on sale now at the Keystone Centre box office, by calling 726-3555 or online at keystonecentre.com