The Montreal Canadiens were visibly charmed by the imposing winger Juraj Slafkovsky, whom he chose first in the NHL draft on Thursday at the Bell Centre.
Slafkovsky was limited to five goals and as many assists in 31 games with TPS Turku in the Finnish league. However, he shone with the national team of Slovakia at the Beijing Olympics and at the World Championship.
He had thus supplanted Shane Wright as the best hope available in the eyes of several observers.
Standing six-foot-four and weighing 218 pounds, Slafkovsky has shown flair around the net and has claimed over the past few days that he could see himself playing alongside Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield.
He could have the chance to do so as early as September.
Photo: Adil Boukind Le Devoir
A happy supporter of the choice of the Montreal Canadiens.
The Canadian had the first right to speak in the NHL Draft for the first time since 1980, when he selected Doug Wickenheiser. He won the NHL lottery after having a miserable 22-49-11 campaign.
The Habs had 13 other NHL draft picks, including the 26th right to speak. He acquired that second pick in the trade that sent Tyler Toffoli to the Flames.
More details will follow.
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