Photo Credits: Neutral Zone Website
The OHL draft took place this weekend, and the Mississauga Steelheads may have gotten the steal of the draft. The Steelheads had the 13th overall pick. They selected centre Adam Valentini of the Toronto Marlboros.
Valentini’s dominance on the ice is not up for debate. This season, he was crowned the player of the year in the GTHL, a testament to his exceptional abilities. In 32 games, he netted an impressive 31 goals and assisted in 36 more, showcasing his undeniable talent.
Adam Valentini has a lot of potential. He was projected to be drafted higher, but there are concerns that he won’t commit to the OHL. The Steelheads should do everything possible to convince Valentini to join the club. With his potential, they can slot him with Porter Martone right away.
The Steelheads have a track record of drafting exceptional players such as William Nylander, Trevor Zegras and Jack Hughes, but retaining their commitment has been challenging. This underscores the urgent need for the Steelheads to secure Valentini’s commitment. They must learn from past experiences and ensure his inclusion in the team, a move that could potentially transform their performance.
Valentini’s potential is not just a speculation. As Josh Anselmo of Inside, The Rink points out, Valentini possesses a Strong level of competition, Elevates his game in high-pressure situations, and can make others around him better. These qualities make him a player to watch out for. His inclusion in the Steelheads’ roster could be a game-changer, as he has the potential to improve the team’s offensive capabilities and overall performance significantly.
The Steelheads are set to be competitive next season and may have found their secret weapon. The team’s future looks bright as they eagerly await Valentini’s decision.