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COLUMBUS– The NHL draft consists of 224 picks. This year, Tyler Peddle was projected to go anywhere from 100 to about 190, but as luck would have it, the Peddle family would have to wait until pick 224 to finally hear Tyler’s name.
“It was probably one of the scariest things leading up to it, but it was the best moment I’ve ever experienced in my life,” Peddle said after being picked by the Columbus Blue Jackets.
After the draft ends, most picks head to their respective team’s prospect camp, and that was no different for Tyler, except for one small detail; his gear got lost on the airline. Getting onto the ice, Peddle had to settle into “older” gear from the Blue Jackets that was slightly worn to make it easier to break in. Peddle was supplied with stock sticks, unlike all the other players who came into camp with custom ones from their seasons with their respective teams. This didn’t slow Tyler down, and he did not look any worse for wear on the ice.
When asked about his favorite thing from his experience in Columbus after day two of development camp, Peddle said, “Getting to see the fans watching, that’s a pretty awesome thing… It’s been great, everybody here is really great”.
Tyler Peddle is a 6’1, 205 lbs power forward that spent the last two years with the Drummondville Voltigeurs of the QMJHL, notching 76 points (41 goals, 35 assists) throughout 129 games. A strong player, Peddle has the ability to lay big hits while possessing a decent shot and good hands. He is a projected bottom-six forward, and after watching him at development camp for two days, I’d say he does have the skill to contribute at the NHL level in a couple of seasons.
The term “Mr. Irrelevant” comes from the NFL nickname given to the last pick in each draft. The NFL player that gets picked last gets the opportunity to go to California and do different types of events for charity and for fun, including Disneyland. Unfortunately for Peddle, this tradition has not yet spread to the National Hockey League.
The Jackets have two days left of development camp, open to the public at Chiller North! You can find the information HERE. There are plenty of opportunities to meet prospects, so bring some merchandise!
–Ian Phillips for Yamo Media
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