Tuesday, Sep 6, 2022. 2:29 PM
Among the prospects present Tuesday at the Washington Capitals training center, the fourth overall pick of the last draft Shane Wright is undoubtedly among those most looking forward to training camp.
There is obviously the chance for the Kingston Frontenacs forward in the OHL in the last two campaigns to make the jump with the Seattle Kraken in the National League, but it is also the chance to put the draft behind him. .
Described by many in recent months as possibly the best prospect at this auction, Wright saw the Montreal Canadiens select Juraj Slafkovsky with the premier tour de parole. It was finally in fourth place that his name resonated at the Bell Centre. Wright told reporters at the scene Tuesday that the dust has since settled and he’s focused on his debut with his new teammates.
“I was able to take a step back, and take a deep breath. I can focus on my game now, my training and make sure I arrive at training camp in the best shape possible,” said the 18-year-old center.
“I don’t focus on that anymore. It’s not a concern. It’s not so much the stress, but there was a lot to do in this process. I can now prepare for the season and training camp,” he added.
The episode risks serving as an additional source of motivation for Wright to make his professional debut next season on the Bettman circuit. He admits he has a lot to learn, but the opportunity to find himself in a young organization that is only one year old in the circuit can be beneficial for the attacker.
“Like anyone at camp, I want to break through the roster and be on the team. I will have to prove my point at camp and do everything to be with the team. This is my goal and I will do everything to achieve it. »
“I have a lot to learn, but there are many smart people around me. I think of Ron Francis who has done so much and there are also veterans in the locker room. »
“There are many opportunities when you come to a team that has veterans, but the organization is brand new. There are not many players who have been established for a long time, so it’s my chance next season to try to make a difference if I manage to make my place, ”he analyzed.
The Kraken had finished its first season in the NHL with 27 wins in 82 games, which had relegated it to last place in the Pacific Division.