The Vegas Golden Knights made some noise in yesterday's NHL Draft, selecting winger Trevor Connelly from the Tri-City Storm. The California native provides offensive playmaking and firepower, making any team more potent. While there are concerns about his past and character issues, Kelly McCrimmon can come up with the biggest steal in the draft.
But McCrimmon can come up with one more steal in the sixth and seventh rounds, making Vegas even more potent. After all, they're more known for finding viable starters in the later rounds, with names like Paul Cotter and Nicolas Hague coming to mind. Therefore, it's imperative for Golden Knights fans to tune in on day two to see what happens.
But who's been drafted later and succeeded, you might ask? Names like Joe Pavelski (205th overall pick, 2003) are perfect examples of late-round steals. Such players have worked on their crafts and created reliable niches for NHL teams. In turn, they've had successful careers, helping their teams become incredible forces to be reckoned with.
Who is this mysterious steal that can crack the lineup in the future? Who's the guy who can have a Pavelski-like career, serving as a model of consistency? It's time for McCrimmon to find a late-round steal who can make Vegas much more formidable. Let's see who this player is that can make a difference.
Watch out for Frankie Marrelli if picked by the Vegas Golden Knights in the NHL Draft
Frankie Marrelli is a name to watch for in the NHL Draft's later rounds. The Ottawa 67s star plays a strong defensive game, using his physicality to check opponents. While he's not the biggest player on the ice (5'11", 185 lbs.), he can deliver a tough identity to the Vegas Golden Knights, making them better on the blue line.
That includes maintaining the inside edges well and blocking shots whenever he can. The native of Markham, Ontario, isn't afraid of using his body in every play, which is a desired trait for Bruce Cassidy's system. His size might prevent him from getting higher in the draft. However, that tenacity makes him a good fit for Vegas.
He also has other good aspects, including solid skating and an impeccable work ethic. The Ottawa 67s star can put in minutes and is a low-risk pick for the Golden Knights to consider. If he can work on doing this consistently and improve his offensive game, imagine having Frankie Marrelli and Trevor Connelly as your draft steals.