Congrats to Cole Sillinger on being the first of the 50 USHL players drafted in the 2021 NHL draft to sign with his pro club. Fifty-one USHLers were taken in the 2020 draft, so this is pretty much par for the course. His surname may be familiar to Red Wings fans, as his father Mike had a stint in Detroit during his career. Dad still has family bragging rights though, as he was drafted one spot higher than son in 1989!
Wanted to mention Owen Power as well, and on his decision to become the first number one overall pick in fifteen years to refrain from immediately going to the NHL. The Hockey News applauded this decision, although I’m sure it is viewed with varying perspectives. I tend to agree with this choice as well, as development on the defensive side of the puck always seems to take a bit longer. If you have a comment on this subject whether or not you agree, it would be welcome.
https://www.ushl.com/news_article/show/1179486
https://www.si.com/hockey/news/prospect-round-up-back-to-school-for-owen-power