Two QMJHL players cause surprises in the East
It was a very eventful day in the hockey world today with the final cuts in each of the 32 National Hockey League teams. Some people will be very happy when the good news is announced, while others will be disappointed with the outcome of the day.
As for Hendrix Lapierre from Quebec, he will remember this day for a long time, because the "former" Chicoutimi Saguenéens learned that he will stay with the big team in Washington. This is great news for the 19-year-old Quebecer who was selected 22nd overall in the 2020 Entry Draft.
It's the same result for his former teammate with the Sags, Dawson Mercer. The latter also earned a spot on the New Jersey Devils' roster. Mercer was drafted 18th overall in 2020, three spots ahead of Lapierre.
However, the same fate did not befall Joe Veleno with the Detroit Red Wings. The 21-year-old Quebec prospect was not able to convince the Michigan team's staff. The latter was victim of the cut-off and will have to start the season with Grand Rapids in the American Hockey League.
Veleno was selected 30th overall in 2018. He only played five games in the NHL last year. So he'll have to go back and prove himself with the Wings AHL team. As for Lucas Raymond and Moritz Seider, they will start their season in Detroit with the big club.
Are you surprised to see Hendrix Lapierre and Dawson Mercer start the season in the NHL?
Credit: RDS.ca
