A full eleven weeks after being selected in the 2021 CHL Import draft, Alex Graham has finally signed an OHL contract!
There were mitigating circumstances behind the prolonged wait for Graham and the Niagara IceDogs.
Having already received a commitment from Swiss defenceman Rodwin Dionicio, who was selected 18th overall in the first round of the 2021 CHL Import Draft, there was one spot left on the roster.
Dynamic forward Daniil Gushchin was eligible to play for the IceDogs this upcoming season as an overage player. It’s fair to say that Niagara wanted to know his status before deciding whether to offer Graham a contract.
Gushchin, selected by San Jose 76th overall in the 2020 draft, has signed an Entry-Level Contract with the Sharks.
For all intents and purposes, it appears as if the Russian is to turn professional in 2021-22, most likely in the AHL with San Jose Barracuda.
That has allowed Niagara to sign Alex Graham, with the club enthused at the chance for the British forward to join them.
General Manager, Joey Burke:
“This is an exciting commitment for us, Alex is a guy who has improved his game at every level and continues to prove that he deserves this opportunity. It’s funny we were looking closely at Alex last import draft if things had unfolded differently for us and are thrilled to be able to have him commit today. It is a true testament to the caliber of English Ice Hockey and where they are at. We believe Alex will have a ton of success at our level. This is a guy who can score at will and we believe he is capable of contributing all over the ice for us and we can’t wait to get going”.
There is little doubt that Alex Graham will add some offensive pop to the IceDogs this season but it’s not just about goals and points.
It’ll be a work in progress for the British forward who does have some deficiencies in his game that’ll require some work.
Graham will doubtless receive some pointers from Liam Kirk as to what to expect in the Ontario Hockey League, which should help with the transition.
Graham shall become the first-ever player from the UK to play for Niagara.
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