Here's a look at what unfolded during the proceedings in Buffalo during the fourth and fifth rounds. The focus here is on Western Hockey League prospects.
Round 4
92 - Toronto...Adam Brooks, C, Regina Pats (HF Rank: N/R; WHL: 16th)
111 - San Jose...Noah Gregor, C, Moose Jaw Warriors (HF Rank: 10th; WHL: 17th)
119 - St. Louis...Tanner Kaspick, C, Brandon Wheat Kings (HF Rank: N/R; WHL: 18th)
Notes: Brooks, now 20, led the WHL in scoring this past season with season with 120 points in 72 games, then added 23 points in 12 post season games...In Gregor, the Sharks have added depth at the forward position, a player who has achieved particular success in the WHL as a penalty killer with the Warriors. His father Colin played for four WHL teams and had a brief minor pro career...Kaspick provided important depth with the Wheat Kings this past season during their WHL Championship run. His presence will surely be felt next season as Brandon graduates some high-octane players from junior.
Round 5
122 - Toronto...Vladimir Bobylev, LW, Victoria Royals (WHL: 19th)
127 - Winnipeg...Jordan Stallard, C, Calgary Hitmen (WHL: 20th)
130 - Buffalo...Vojtech Budik, D, Prince Albert Raiders (WHL: 21st)
133 - Ottawa...Max Lajoie, D, Swift Current Broncos (WHL: 22nd)
144 - St. Louis...Connor Bleackley, C, Red Deer Rebels (WHL: 23rd)
145 - Washington...Beck Malenstyn, LW, Calgary Hitmen (WHL: 24th)
Max Lajoie - Ottawa Senators
Notes: Bobylev appeared in all 72 games this past season as an import for Victoria, the WHL's regular season champions. On a small, speedy and skilled roster, he was among the biggest players on the Royals roster at 6'2 and 202 pounds...Stallard emerged during the second half as an effective power forward and in some pre-draft rankings was touted as a potential second rounder...Budik is another import, a durable defenseman in Prince Albert. Its likely the Sabres took a liking to Budik while watching their other prized pick from the Raiders roster, defenseman Brendan Guhle, a 2015 second round pick who has already been signed...Lajoie was among the highest ranked prospects in the WHL prior to this past season and there is little explanation for his drop on draft day. Ottawa gets a very fit, skilled and dynamic rearguard. Lajoie might not have an ounce of body fat on his frame...Bleackley, was unable to earn a NHL contract after being drafted two years ago in the first round by Colorado. The Avs traded the 'Dub forward this season to the Arizona Coyotes. who received a supplemental pick for not signing Bleackley before June 1. Bleackley endured an injury-riddled season in Red Deer before appearing in the Memorial Cup...Malenstyn is another of the depth forwards in Calgary who will take on a prominent role next season. He is on the Hockey Canada radar, with appearances internationally at U17 and U18 events.
Total number of WHL players selected at the NHL Draft:
2016: 34. (1st Rd: 4) 2010: 33. (1st Rd: 5)
2015: 35. (1st Rd: 5) 2009: 31. (1st Rd: 5)
2014: 37. (1st Rd: 9) 2008: 37. (1st Rd: 9)
2013: 33. (1st Rd: 8) 2007: 37. (1st Rd: 9)
2012: 32. (1st Rd: 6) 2006: 24. (
2011: 33. (1st Rd: 6)
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