Draft Highlights
The Detroit Red Wings announced a trade that sent goaltender Sebastian Cossa to the Utah Mammoth, clearing a spot that allowed them to select forward J.P. Hurlbert with the 23rd overall pick in the NHL Entry Draft.
Hurlbert, the Western Hockey League’s reigning Rookie of the Year, posted 42 goals and 97 points this season, a dual‑threat scoring package that has drawn praise from analysts for its NHL‑ready upside.
The Wings also used a second‑round selection to bring Victor Plante into the system, reuniting the center with his brother Max, who already belongs to the organization.
Experts such as Corey Pronman and Julian Gaudio highlighted the picks as part of a broader strategy to add depth and offensive firepower, noting that both players possess NHL potential despite the team’s lack of a first‑round selection.