LAS VEGAS | For a second consecutive year, the QMJHL saw none of its representatives be claimed in the first round of the NHL draft. But Quebec’s honor was still saved when the Chicago Blackhawks claimed Sacha Boisvert at 18e rank in total.
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After selecting defenseman Artyom Levshunov second overall, the Hawks grabbed the Trois-Rivières center who spent last season with the Muskegon Lumberjacks in the United States Junior League (USHL). ).
“To be with an Original Six team is special. The Blackhawks have a bright future and I’m really excited to be a part of this rebuild. I hope to bring a Stanley Cup back to Chicago in the future.”
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Memories of Patrick Kane
Speaking of the Cup, he was four, seven and nine years old during the organization’s last three conquests in 2010, 2013 and 2015.
So his memories are fuzzy, but he has some.
“I have big goals from Patrick Kane in mind, and guys throwing their gloves and sticks in the air. I’m thinking of a dynasty, that’s what I have in mind.”
By stepping onto the podium at the Sphere in Las Vegas on Friday, Boisvert was rewarded for several years of sacrifice, including leaving the family nest at the age of 14 to move to the United States to pursue his dream.
“It’s a source of pride. I learned English and I had to get by at a young age and here I am. It paid off. This is the start of the real career and I just want to keep working.”
Boisvert’s teammate with the Lumberjacks last season, Russian forward Matvei Gridin, was chosen at 28e ranked by the Calgary Flames.
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Only Quebecer
Boisvert was therefore the only player who played in Quebec to be selected in the first round. It was certainly a source of pride, even if he did not say he was in competition with his compatriots.
“I just hope for the best scenario for the others. It’s fun to be the first Quebecer, it’s a great accomplishment.”
Last year, the first player on the Cecchini circuit was Ethan Gauthier, at 37e ranked in the second round, by the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Chicoutimi Saguenéens forward Maxim Massé and Rimouski Océanic defenceman Spencer Gill shouldn’t wait too long Saturday, however. Raoul Boilard, Tomas Lavoie and Justin Poirier are other Quebecers to watch in Rounds 2 to 7.
The QMJHL is hoping to avoid last year’s disaster when 12 players from its circuit were claimed during the seven rounds of the draft held in Nashville. It was the worst draft in the history of the Quebec junior circuit.
Several recruiters predict that the 2024 vintage will be worse than last year.
To be continued.
