The Erie Otters participated in the annual Canadian Hockey League (CHL) Import Draft on Wednesday afternoon. This event allows all 61 teams to select players from outside North America. This season, all clubs are allowed to roster three import players. Entering the draft, the Otters only had one import player, goaltender Noah Erliden, following the graduation of Chicago Blackhawks forward Martin Misiak. Their pick selections are as follows: 32, 93, 154.
General manager Dave Brown made Otters fans happy with the selection of Waterloo Black Hawks forward Alex Misiak. The 18-year-old is the younger brother of Martin Misiak, who was a fan favorite in Erie. Despite being undrafted in this year’s NHL Draft, Alex brings a lot to the table. The Hockey Writers raved about Misiak’s “strong playmaking ability” and “offensive IQ.” Elite Prospects praised his ability to “distribute to the nearby open teammate.” He will fit in well as an Otter and will look to carry on where his older brother left off.
The Erie Otters made history by selecting a Finnish player for the first time ever. Julius Saari is a “strong defender” who was a captain of Team Finland at World U-18 Championships, according to the official article. Elite Prospects describes him as a “physical defensive defenseman with projectable skating ability” and a “robust defensive game.” He will join a very talented and young defensive group headlined by Chicago Blackhawks prospect Ty Henry, and two experienced, overage defenseman in Nathan Sauder and Alexis Daviault.
Round 3 – Pick 154: Passed
I’m really excited about the players selected in the CHL Import Draft! Alex Misiak was a player I talked about back in April as a great fit for Erie, and I can’t believe it happened. It feels like the pieces are slowly being put together and hockey season will be here before you know it! The Otters will take the ice next month for training camp. Check out this article next!
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