FIRST-YEAR MEMORIES
Postmedia enlisted a handful of previous expansion draft picks to offer advice to players selected in Wednesday’s 2017 NHL Expansion Draft and who receive an invite to the Vegas Golden Knights’ first training camp in September.
“The advice I’d give is to enjoy the process. It’s going to be really unique in that city. When you’re a part of something brand new, you have an opportunity to lay the foundation for, hopefully, an organization that is going to be successful for a long time. You may not reap all the rewards of it, but you may be able to feel a part of it.” — Andrew Brunette, Washington Capitals forward picked by the Nashville Predators (1998) “My advice would be to just take it all in with your arms wide open. Soak it in like a sponge. It may not last as long as you want. It might be two years, it might be one year, but those people in the stands, the fans, they’re always going to remember the original guys. That’s probably one of the more special years a franchise can have. If you’re a part of that, don’t take it for granted.” — Bob Boughner, Buffalo Sabres defenceman picked by the Nashville Predators (1998)
“If there’s a guy who is trying to find his way, he should go and seize the opportunity. Go there and don’t take the back seat. Go there and carve out your path. That’s what we were told. Everybody is there (to showcase themselves) and everything is up for grabs.” — Scott Walker, Vancouver Canucks forward picked by the Nashville Predators (1998) “First thing I’d say to a player is that it’s a great opportunity. You’re going into a situation where you’re probably going to be able to establish yourself. I think the great thing about that inaugural team is that you get a chance to be a part of something pretty special in that first year, something you can build on.” — Steve Staios, Vancouver Canucks defenceman picked by the Atlanta Thrashers (1999)
“Don’t take it as a slight. It’s a new opportunity. You’ve got to be willing and open to those opportunities, especially if you’re still a guy who is trying to establish himself as a regular in the league. I think that’s the big thing (to remember).” — Jody Hull, Philadelphia Flyers forward picked by the Atlanta Thrashers (1999)