NHL draft day 2: Walters to St. Louis

Rounds two through seven of the NHL draft took place this morning, and Everett defenseman Nick Walters became the second Silvertip selected this year when he went in the fourth round, 116th overall, to the St. Louis Blues. This was right in the range where Walters, who was ranked 67th among North American skaters by Central Scouting, was expected to be picked.

I had a chance to chat with Walters, who was keeping tabs on the draft at home in St. Albert, Alberta, and he nearly missed it. He was keeping track on the internet when his internet went down about 10 picks before he was selected. The family scrambled for an alternative and found the television broadcast, but an interview was taking place when St. Louis' pick took place, so Walters didn't hear his name called. When Walters' agent called to congratulate, Walters had to ask what happened.

Two other players of note to the Tips were selected today.

Winger Jujhar Khaira, whose rights were acquired from Prince George during the bantam draft, was taken in the third round, 63rd overall, by the Edmonton Oilers. Khaira is currently committed to attend Michigan Tech next season. However, the Tips are hoping to convince Khaira to play for Everett instead, and general manager Garry Davidson said he was hoping to meet with Khaira and his family next week.

Defenseman Reece Willcox, whose rights were acquired from Portland in the Seth Jones trade, was selected in the fifth round, 141st overall, by the Philadelphia Flyers. Willcox is committed to attend Cornell next season. Unlike Khaira, Davidson said Willcox's commitment to Cornell remains solid, so don't expect to see him in an Everett uniform next season.