FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 16, 2018
29-year-old Las Vegas native enters eighth ECHL season with over 400 games played.
TULSA, OK – The Tulsa Oilers, proud ECHL affiliate of the National Hockey League’s St. Louis Blues, and Head Coach Rob Murray announced Thursday the signing of veteran forward Chris Francis for the 2018-19 season.
Francis, 29, arrives in Tulsa after splitting the 2017-18 season with the Quad City Mallards and Wheeling Nailers. The former Mallards captain had 6 points (3g, 3a) in 11 games before he was traded to Wheeling, where he totaled 20 points (8g, 12a) in 35 games. Francis has 276 points (114g, 162a) in 401 ECHL games throughout his seven seasons and was an ECHL All-Star in 2012-13. The Las Vegas, Nev. native skated for his hometown Wranglers from 2011-14 before playing for Murray in 2014-15 in Alaska.
“Chris rounds out our four veteran spots,” said Murray. “He skates very well and has a really good shot. I’ve always liked him both on my team and as an opponent through the years. He is really excited to come and be a part of our group here in Tulsa.”
Francis turned pro in 2010-11 after an impressive junior career with the Portland Winterhawks of the Western Hockey League. The 5’9, 189 lbs. forward started his rookie season with the American Hockey League’s Springfield Falcons where he notched a goal and an assist in four games. He then played the majority of the year with the Central Hockey League’s Fort Wayne Komets before finishing that season in the ECHL with Las Vegas.
“I’m beyond thrilled to be joining the Oilers,” said Francis. “I have only heard great things about the organization, rink and fans. I’m going to do my absolute best for Coach Murray and help bring this team success. See you soon, Tulsa.”
The Oilers host the Idaho Steelheads to open the regular season on Saturday, October 13 at 7:05pm at the BOK Center. The two teams will complete Opening Weekend in Tulsa at 4:05pm Sunday, October 14, followed by a postgame skate for the fans with the Oilers players.
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