Raphael Lavoie Falls to Edmonton at #38

The Edmonton Oilers put their 2019 second round draft selection to good use Saturday morning. drafting 6’4” winger Raphael Lavoie at pick #38.

Lavoie spent last season playing for the Halifax Mooseheads, where he put up 73pts in 62gp.

Initially slated to be a mid-first round pick, Raphael Lavoie is described as large power forward with a very accurate release. Lavoie reads the game well and is good at moving the puck to his teammates.

What makes Lavoie such an interesting prospect is his deceptively quick skating. At 6’4” the kid can fly and that is something that is not seen often in power forwards. While he will definitely be the type of player that forces the puck to the net through sheer force, Lavoie also has a bit of finesse in his game. His puck skills are above average and, combined with his size and speed, he can make defenders look stupid with ease.

At pick #38 this can only be seen as an absolute steal for Ken Holland and the Edmonton Oilers. Scouts had the Montreal native going as high as 11th overall, while Bob McKenzie had him ranked 14th overall.

Unlike the Philip Broberg selection, fan reaction to this selection SHOULD be overwhelmingly positive.

Pending a trade the Oilers next pick is #85 in the third round.

What are your first thoughts on Raphael Lavoie? Leave a comment below and let me know!