This year's NHL Entry Draft saw history being made with the selection of Slovakian forward Juraj Slafkovský of TPS Turku at number one overall. As the draft went on, two more CHLers were taken in the first round.
Rögle Ängelholm and last year's competitors Leksands IF each had a player chosen from their club with one or two players likely to play overseas next season.
While there was speculation surrounding whom the Montreal Canadiens would take with their coveted first overall pick leading up to the draft, rumours were finally put to rest when the club selected Slafkovský on Thursday night. Ranked #1 on the NHL’s Central Scouting ranking of International skaters, Slafkovský became the highest Slovakia-born player to be chosen in the NHL Draft. In last year’s CHL, the left-winger from eastern Slovakia suited up for four games with Finnish side TPS Turku where he recorded one assist.
Last year’s CHL Champions Rögle Ängelholm were also represented at this year’s draft when Marco Kasper was selected by the Detroit Red Wings 8th overall. Kasper showcased his talent to full effect in his first CHL campaign compiling six points in 12 games with the Swedish club.
Additionally, Lian Bichsel, who competed with Leksands IF in last year’s tournament, went 18th overall to the Dallas Stars. The Swiss defenceman played top minutes for the Swedish side and contributed one goal in eight games.