American player's out of Kent Hughes' List?"

Information has been flying from all sides since the Arizona Coyotes' victory over the Edmonton Oilers last night. Sitting at 28th place in the overall standings, the Montreal Canadiens have the fifth-best probability of winning the draft lottery.

While Kent Hughes remained cautious during his press conference on Wednesday regarding this coveted first-round pick, which will undoubtedly be within the top seven of the upcoming amateur draft in Las Vegas, a name has reportedly already been crossed off his list.

Since the Habs won't be participating in the playoffs for a third consecutive season, Kent Hughes will have all the time in the world to discuss with his counterparts in the league whether to advance, retain, or move back with his first-round pick.

According to journalist Tony Marinaro, Kent Hughes has already crossed off the name of a player who has been part of the top-12 since the NHL Central Scouting Bureau began its publications.


Perceived as a natural scorer in the United States' under-18 national development program, Cole Eiserman may not be in Kent Hughes' plans.

With 74 goals in 73 games this season, two more goals than Cole Caufield at the same age, the Canadiens have other targets in mind for their pick, which will undoubtedly be in the top seven (if the Canadiens do not trade down).



With names like Macklin Celebrini, Ivan Demidov, Cayden Lindstrom, Berkly Catton, Tij Iginla, and several other talented forwards, it's obvious that someone perceived as a natural scorer may not be the most complete player available who meets the needs envisioned by Gorton and Hughes. This is more about DNA compatible with Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton's game plan.