Before CHL – Eurohockey presents EHC Black Wings Linz

20 Aug 2015Lucas Bradelj»

Also 4 clubs from the Erste Bank Eishockey Liga will participate in this year’s edition of the Champions Hockey League. Eurohockey tries to make sure you know the teams before you head to the arena. This time we take a look at the Black Wings Linz.

The two-time Austrian champion from Linz may have the weakest roster of the four EBEL clubs in CHL, but should not be underestimated by Turku and Düsseldorf. The Black Wings, founded in 1992, has established itself as one of the top teams in their domestic league, qualifying for the semifinals in both previous seasons. The team is coached by Rob Daum, who goes into his fifth season with the Black Wings and brought a championship to the Upper Austrian town in 2012.

In net Michael Ouzas gives Linz the chance to win every night, helped out by a proven defence with Austrian national team members such as Mario Altmann, Daniel Mitterdorfer or Robert Lukas. They also possess an exciting offensive weapon on the blue line in Sebastian Piche, who might be EBEL’s most exiting offensive defenceman.

Offensively the biggest loss this off-season might be Brian Lebler, who continues his career in Germany. They should though still have enough offensive talents, such as topscorer Andrew Kozek or Jason Ulmer. New aquisitions Dan DaSilva and Brett McLean can also add some valuable experience to the roster.

Faceoff in last season's EBEL semifinal series Vienna Capitals vs EHC Black Wings Linz