How early Vancouver Giants winger Mathis Preston might hear his name called in June’s NHL Draft is a hot topic, but Preston himself seems unfazed.
“For me, I just want to go to a team where I can make my mark early. I don’t really care about the number,” said the 17-year-old from Penticton.
Many predict a first-round selection for him. “I want to go to an organization where I can come in and play my game.
“Obviously, you want to go as high as possible as a competitor. But in every draft there’s someone who goes 30th and is playing in the NHL and someone who goes fifth and is nowhere to be found. I don’t think it (what number pick you are) really matters.
“Some guys get caught up in it. I try not to think about it.
I’m off social media, so I think that helps. I’m not looking at things.
I think mentally that it helps, and I think you also can forget why you play the game in the first place. You’re playing because you love playing and not because of some draft ranking.”
Now, let’s dive into the rankings. Cam Robinson at Elite Prospects has Preston going No. 23 overall, while Sportsnet’s Sam Cosentino sees him at No.
- Meanwhile, Craig Button at TSN has him at No.
- Despite differing opinions, Preston’s skill set is undeniable.
Preston recently returned to action after an eight-week hiatus due to a knee injury. He was traded to the Giants from the Spokane Chiefs, a rare move in a draft year. His current stats (16 goals, 38 points, 41 games) might not jump off the page, but his talent is clear.
In his debut game with Vancouver, he scored a stunning overtime winner against the Tri-City Americans. He followed that with a slick shootout goal against the Kelowna Rockets, showcasing his flair and creativity.
Preston has only played five games with Vancouver, tallying two goals and six points. It seems Spokane wasn’t the right fit for him, especially with their struggling power play. Preston’s skills seem to transcend his current numbers.
The Giants, once contenders, faced a challenging season. With key players like Cameron Schmidt and Ryan Lin, they aimed high but opted for a hybrid rebuild at the trade deadline. Preston and Lin, close friends from national team experiences, reunited in Vancouver.
Unfortunately, injuries derailed their efforts. Preston suffered a knee injury, and Lin broke his wrist soon after. The Giants spiraled, missing the playoffs.
With five games left, including a Friday matchup against the Victoria Royals, Preston is eager to keep playing. He hopes to join Team Canada for the Under-18 World Championships in Slovakia. He and Lin were part of the Canadian team that took third at the Gretzky Hlinka Cup, where Preston notched four goals and seven points in five games.
Preston’s journey is one to watch, as his potential continues to shine through adversity.