Kessel Goes Fifth In NHL Draft » Brats & Beer

June 25, 2006
posted under: Badgers in the NHL, Brent Gwidt, Derrick LaPoint, Hockey, Phil Kessel

Madison native Phil Kessel was the fifth overall pick in the NHL draft yesterday, getting picked up by the Boston Bruins. The talented center made a name for himself on the U-18 team last year was recruited by Wisconsin and Boston College but chose the University of Minnesota; he scored 18 goals for the Gophers last season. Kessel is entering his sophomore year but he might skip out and be playing next season for the Bruins, who are in need of some help on offense.

Derrick LaPoint, another highly-rated player from the Badger State, was picked up by the Florida Panthers in the fourth round. LaPoint hails from Eau Claire where he played for North High School, earning player of the year honors last year from the Wisconsin Hockey Coaches Association. He will be heading to the University of North Dakota for the 2007 season.

Finally, Brent Gwidt, who plays for Lakeland High School in Minocqua, was picked up in the sixth round by the Washington Capitals.

Kyle Okposo led a slate of players from the Des Moines Buccaneers in the draft, being picked seventh overall by the New York Islanders. The St. Paul native becomes the highest drafted player in Bucs history. His teammate Trevor Lewis was also taken in the first round by the Los Angeles Kings with the 17th pick. Jeff Petry of Ann Arbor was the 45th pick by the Edmonton Oilers and Shane Sims also went to the Islanders in the fifth round.

Eric Gryba, who plays for the USHL Green Bay Gamblers, was selected by the Ottawa Senators in the third round.

Congrats and good luck to all as you make your way into the big leagues.