Two former top-16 first-round picks have just been released in the NHL, and there's a surprise
In the last few minutes, we learned that the Calgary Flames have officially made the decision to cut, and release from their professional tryouts, forwards Cody Eakin and Sonny Milano.
Milano, 26, was drafted 16th overall in 2014 by the Columbus Blue Jackets. He has 81 points and 36 goals, in 197 career NHL games (including a solid 14 goals and 34 points last season with the Anaheim Ducks, his best career season).
He is clearly too dominant for the American Hockey League, but is unable to find a position in the NHL for the upcoming season. Considering his recent stats, his age and the salary he's been asked for, it's rather curious, and a surprise for many, but hey, to be continued!
As for Cody Eakin, the 11-year NHL veteran had 12 points in 69 games last season with the Buffalo Sabres.
Oilers also release a player
In the final seconds, it was the turn of the Vancouver Canucks' former sixth overall pick in 2014, Jake Virtanen, to be released.
Virtanen, 26, had 55 goals and 100 points, in 317 career NHL games. It looks like it's over for him in the best hockey league in the world.
More details to follow!
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