Pats Select Sylvegard in Import Draft

Imagine my surprise when I walked into the office this morning and was told the Pats had already made their selection in the 2012 CHL Import Draft.  The draft schedule gives each team ten minutes to make a pick and the Pats were slated to pick around noon today.  This year's draft is rolling along, though with the second round of the sixty team draft almost complete.

The Pats used their 32nd overall pick to take Emil Sylvegard, a sizable Swede who comes in with previous CHL experience.  Sylvegard suited up for the Drummondville Voltigeurs last season in the QMJHL and picked up 31 points in 65 games.  Pats GM Chad Lang is confident that year of experience and familiarity with the North American game will lead Sylvegard to a breakout season in the WHL.


For a good explanation on why Sylvegard was available despite playing in the CHL last year check out Phil Andrews' blog about halfway down the post.

At 6'2" / 202 lbs, Sylvegard brings some good size to the Pats lineup and presents a couple of options.  Sylvegard can play centre or on the wing and could provide that strong presence up the middle that's so valuable.

If you want to follow the newest Regina Pat on twitter, his handle is @emilsylvegard.  Thanks to Phil for digging that one up.


The Import Draft isn't the only Pats news today.  The 2012-13 WHL Regular Season Schedule released today so head over to ReginaPats.com for the details.


-D