Friends growing up in Estevan, and now teammates on the Western Hockey League's Prince Albert Raiders, both Cole Fonstad and Brayden Pachal were ranked in the NHL Central Scouting's year end rankings, ahead of the 2018 NHL Draft in June.
After receiving a mid-term ranking of 78 among North American skaters, Fonstad moved up to 65 after an outstanding season that saw him break a point-per-game, with 21 goals and 52 assists for 73 points in 72 regular season games. The 17-year-old is currently taking part in the Under-18 World Championships in Russia as a part of Team Canada. This is his first time representing Canada at any level.
Bryaden Pachal was also featured in the year end rankings, coming in at 200 among North American skaters. He also enjoyed a career year in the Western Hockey League, scoring 7 goals and 19 assists for 26 points in 68 games. Pachal was an assistant captain for the Prince Albert Raiders this year. Last summer, he earned an invite to Ottawa Senators Development Camp.
Should either Fonstad or Pachal get drafted, it would be the first time in 17 years that someone from Estevan would hear their name called at the NHL Draft. In 2001, Joel Stepp was selected by the Anaheim Mighty Ducks in the 3rd round, 69th overall. The same year, Dustin Johner was taken by the Florida Panthers in the 6th round, 169th overall.
Fonstad Named To CHL Top Prospects Game.
Fonstad Interview on Team Canada.
Wed, Apr 24, 4:00 PM
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