Day 2 of the NHL Draft is in progress, and teams are busy working on enhancing their prospect pools ahead of a hectic off-season.
Notable draft picks include the Vancouver Canucks selecting goaltender Alexei Medvedev from the London Knights with the 47th overall pick. Last season, Medvedev posted an impressive 22-8-2 record, with a .912 save percentage and a 2.79 goals-against average, contributing to his team’s victory in the J. Ross Robertson Cup and the Memorial Cup.
In trade news, the Detroit Red Wings are in negotiations to acquire goaltender John Gibson from the Anaheim Ducks. The potential deal involves sending goaltender Petr Mrazek and two draft picks to Anaheim. Gibson, who has had a challenging season, is transitioning into his seventh year of an eight-year contract. His stats last season reflected a 2.77 goals-against average and a .912 save percentage over 24 games played.
Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Penguins have made a significant move by acquiring Connor Clifton from the Buffalo Sabres, along with the 39th overall pick, in exchange for defencemen Conor Timmins and Isaac Belliveau. Clifton had 16 points over 73 games last season and is nearing the end of his three-year contract.
The Ottawa Senators have also strengthened their defense by acquiring Jordan Spence from the Los Angeles Kings. In return, the Kings will receive third and sixth-round picks. Spence had a solid season last year, scoring four goals and recording 28 points in 79 games.
In addition to these moves, the Montreal Canadiens selected winger Alexander Zharovsky from Russia with the 33rd overall pick. Zharovsky was recognized for his impressive performance in the MHL, where he notched 24 goals and 50 points in just 45 games.
As Canadian teams gear up for the remainder of the draft, they hold multiple picks that allow for potential growth in their player development systems. Teams such as the Montreal Canadiens, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Edmonton Oilers are looking to maximize their draft opportunities, which bodes well for the future of hockey in Canada.
The ongoing draft activities highlight the excitement and strategic planning as organizations build towards a promising season ahead.