Another first-round pick in 2019 acquired by Kent Hughes? The next Kirby Dach and Alex Newhook could well be Jakob Pelletier

We all know Kent Hughes' attraction to young players in need of a second chance to establish themselves in the NHL, especially former first-round picks.

Just think of Alex Newhook and Kirby Dach to realize that his plan is quite clear: to acquire as much attacking talent as possible with promising young players.

This year, he might acquire this player through a trade at the deadline, instead of at the draft as he did in the last two seasons.

According to Jacob Stoller and a Calgary media outlet, Jordan Harris is reportedly on the market, and the Flames are very interested in acquiring him. A trade proposal has emerged, involving a young former first-round pick from 2019.


Indeed, Jakob Pelletier is the player targeted by this proposal. Drafted 26th overall in 2019, Pelletier initially faced Darryl Sutter's criticism last year before being injured this year and missing most of the season.

At 22 years old, he has an average of nearly 1 point per game in the AHL (102 points) over a sample of 105 games. This is extraordinary for such a young player, especially considering he has only played 4 games this year.

It's often said that players with a 1 point per game average in the AHL are ready to make the jump to the NHL. Doing that at 20 and 21 years old is even more impressive.

Of course, Kent Hughes would likely have to pay more than just Jordan Harris to acquire him, but it seems to be a pretty solid foundation for a trade, especially considering Pelletier was part of discussions during the Tyler Toffoli trade.