Ottawa 67’s Select Andrew Laurin as First Pick in OHL Priority Selection: A Strategic Move for the Future
The Ottawa 67’s made an interesting choice in the OHL Priority Selection by selecting right-winger Andrew Laurin as their first pick. Despite the team's need for a center, Laurin was deemed the best player available by GM Jan Egert. Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 175 pounds, Laurin hails from Belleville and could potentially play in the center position for the team. However, the 67’s faced a setback earlier in the week when center Thomas Vandenberg confirmed his commitment to attend Providence College and play for the NCAA Division 1 Friars next season. Vandenberg, a Nepean native, had an impressive rookie season with the 67’s, scoring 25 goals and 25 assists. His departure is a significant loss for the team.
Andrew Laurin showcased his skills with the Quinte Red Devils U16 AAA’s last season, scoring 26 goals, providing 25 assists, and accumulating 44 penalty minutes in 34 games. He also had a strong showing at the OHL Cup Showcase, contributing three goals and two assists in four games. The 67’s are hopeful that Laurin’s talent and potential will make up for the absence of Vandenberg in the upcoming season. The OHL Priority Selection draft will continue with rounds 2-15 on Saturday, where the team will have the opportunity to further strengthen their roster.
In conclusion, the Ottawa 67’s made a strategic decision to select Andrew Laurin as their first pick in the OHL Priority Selection, prioritizing talent over positional needs. While the departure of center Thomas Vandenberg is a loss for the team, Laurin’s impressive performance with the Quinte Red Devils U16 AAA’s and at the OHL Cup Showcase provides hope for the team's future. The upcoming rounds of the draft present an opportunity for the 67’s to continue building a competitive roster for the upcoming season.