The Vancouver Giants chances at repeating as Memorial Cup champions increased greatly today as the Phoenix Coyotes assigned former first round pick Kyle Turris to the Western Hockey League team for the remainder of the 2007-08 season.

“Ideally we wanted to get Kyle into some of our last games here in Phoenix,” said Coyotes head coach Wayne Gretzky. “But we feel that giving him the chance at a deep playoff run in the WHL will help his development long-term.”

Turris is expected to arrive in Vancouver later today and will practice with the Giants Tuesday afternoon. Turris, normally an offensive threat, may find himself in a different role with the Giants.

“We’re not sure where Kyle will play to be honest,” said Giants GM Scott Bonner. “We’re quite happy with the forward units right now so we may start Turris on the fourth line and let him find his legs. Playing with some of our energy guys might just be the best move at this point.”

Turris is coming off his freshman season at the University of Wisconsin where he scored 11 goals and added 24 assists in 36 games played. The Burnaby native is expected to wear #91 when he suits up for the Giants.

For more on this story check out the official press release.