“We have a trade!” Even in the 3rd round of the NHL Draft, those words still grab the attention of the potential draftees and their families. For Edmonton born and raised Stuart Skinner those words would be prophetic. The Oilers had just traded picks 82 and 126 to the Arizona Coyotes in exchange to move up to 78. They had their sights set on one player, goaltender Stuart Skinner. Just how badly they wanted him, was proven by their move.
Skinner was ranked 5th amongst North American goaltenders. His size (6’4” 202lbs) mobility, aggressiveness, puck handling ability and rebound control certainly is a testament to his skills. Stuart also demonstrates an unflappable demeanor under pressure. Although his numbers in the 2016-17 season were not spectacular 3.26 GAA, .905 sv%, the Canes’ workhorse played in 60 games but it was his performance in the playoffs that raised more eyebrows. Skinner was the main force in the Canes advancing to the Eastern Conference Final, before Lethbridge was turned aside by Regina. In the playoffs Canes were badly out shot, with Stuart being the reason for series wins vs Red Deer and Medicine Hat.
Did Stuart have any idea of the Oilers drafting him? “No, not at all!” About being drafted by his favorite team, Skinner stated, “What a blessing, watching the Edmonton Oilers as a young guy. There’s no words to describe it. It’s an unbelievable feeling.” (courtesy of 630 CHED)
Skinner will have a busy off season, being one of four goaltenders invited to Hockey Canada Summer Select camp, and then attending the Oilers camp in the fall.
While the draft result for Stuart Skinner was great, three other Canes did not have the same good fortune.
Gritty forward, Jordy Bellerive put up very solid numbers over the past season raising his point production to 27G-29A and adding another 7G-7A in the post season. The native of New Westminister, BC has a toughness to his game along with a lethal shot. He was ranked 82nd of the North American skaters, but was not selected during the seven rounds. Disappointment, for sure but he did not go unnoticed as he as been invited to the Development camp of the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Forward Ryan Bowen who was acquired from Moose Jaw during the regular season was eligible for the draft. Ryan was ranked 204th of North American skaters by Central scouting which left him in a 7th round position before the addition of Euros. Ryan was passed over in the draft.
Giorgio Estephan was back in the draft after the Buffalo Sabres did not sign him to a contract. The Sabres had selected Giorgio 152nd in the 2015 NHL draft. For whatever reason Buffalo let him go back into the 2017 draft. Estephan was undrafted after a solid regular season and an outstanding playoff. Giorgio matched Tyler Wong’s playoff totals of 11G 13A while playing two fewer games due to an eye injury. Estephan was key in the faceoff circle for coach Brent Kisio all season long an even more so in the playoffs. Giorgio was used at both ends of the ice and in most circumstances. Disappointing? For Giorgio it certainly must be. It will be interesting to see if there is an invite to a pro camp in the offing.
