Sokolov drafted amongst Flames new prospects

Approaching the second round GM Stephen had some players on his radar that he was hoping to fall to him at picks 3. As the round began, GM Steve was nervous that he may not get them and efforts to move up from 38 were unsuccessful, however when the pick came around he was surprised and ecstatic to select forward Egor Sokolov.

“What we like about Sokolov is his determination and character. After being overlooked in previous drafts, he never gave up. He kept pushing forward by dropping from 240 to 223 pounds and further developing his puck skills, and finishing touch around the net. His determination was shown on the ice where he put up 92 points in a shortened season for Cape Breton. His character is also top notch which is evident by his willingness to help others.” 

When asked about the potential of Sokolov returning home overseas, GM Steve had this to say, “I am not concerned, when Sokolov had the chance to leave, he decided to stay, work on his hockey and strive to be better for his career. He’ll be given every chance to make the roster and we suspect he’ll be on it sooner than later, playing next to Drake Batherson who was his roommate in Halifax”.

Welcome to the Calgary Flames Egor. We are looking forward to you lighting the lamp like you do for Cape Breton and Team Russia.

Pick 42 – Justin Barron – Defense – 6ft 2, 198 lbs

This was another surprise pick for the Flames. Projected to be a 1^st rounder at the start of the season, injuries sided lined this young Halifax Moosehead high potential defense man. When Nathan Mackinnon who plans to be future scout for the Calgary Flames reaches out and says to take his best bud, you got to listen.  Barron brings a jack of all trades fluid mobile skater to the Flames back end which will go well with Makar, Sanderson, Dahlin and the rest of the high flying back side crew.

Pick 72 – Will Cuylle – Left Wing – 6ft 4, 203 lbs

Will Cuylle is a big physical man who can skate and shoot. He is a bit of a gamble but has the raw tools to grow into a middle 6 forward.

Pick 74 – Ty Smilanic – Center – 6ft 1 – 179 lbs

Like Cuylle, Smilanic is what the Flames consider a high risk high reward player. Smilanic was sidelined by multiple injuries however if he can stay health and another season under his belt he should be able to show why he was drafted. He brings skill, hard-working strong defensive skills, and potential untapped scoring.

Pick 104 – Kevin Kleven – Defense – 6ft 4, 201 lbs

Flames GM appears to have set a tone with the various picks this draft. Common theme. Size and character. Kevin brings a nasty stay at home defense approach who isn’t afraid to hit a moving forward. Kleven is headed off to the University of North Dakota where he will groom his craft. If Makar felt like he had no protection before Barron and Kleven sure have added some grit.