Shane Wright

Before the draft, the Canadian center-forward called himself the best player in the draft and expected to be selected at number one overall.  In the end, the Kingston forward from the Ontario Junior League went only 4th to Seattle. Montreal, New Jersey, and Arizona, who had the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd picks, selected Juraj Slafkovsky, Simon Nemec, and Logan Cooley respectively.  Yes, there will be more motivated. I’m always motivating myself, pushing myself forward internally. But it will definitely add to the fire.  Sometimes teams take the most suitable player for them. At the end of the day, it’s not…

The club is exploring three forwards – Shane Wright (Canada), Juraj Slafkovsky (Slovakia), and Logan Cooley (USA).  “The Canadiens haven’t picked at No. 1 overall since 1980 when they spent a peak on forward Doug Wickenheiser (556 NHL games and 276 points, 111+165).  In Montreal, it’s probably hardest to be a number one. So we’re not just evaluating hockey players, we’re evaluating character.   We’re trying to assess their ability to handle a lot of pressure on a consistent basis,” said Habs general manager Kent Hughes. Entering with the draft with the first overall choice, many picks and a number…