A total of 47 GTHL alumni started their hockey season with an NHL club. Twenty-four of the league’s 31 clubs had at least one GTHL grad on their roster on opening day.
After being selected fifth overall by the Arizona Coyotes at the 2018 NHL Draft, former Toronto Red Wings forward Barrett Hayton will start his season with his NHL club. He is the youngest GTHL grad currently playing with an NHL club.
Numerous GTHL grads also participated in NHL pre-season action after recently being drafted, including San Jose Sharks first-round pick Ryan Merkley. The Guelph Storm defenceman was one of nine players remaining in his position before being sent back to junior. Vancouver Canucks first-round selection Quinn Hughes, who many suspected would be NHL-ready, made the decision to return to the Michigan Wolverines in the NCAA.
By the Numbers
- The St.Louis Blues, Dallas Stars, and Toronto Maple Leafs all lead the league with a total of four GTHL alumni on their rosters
- 30% of all active GTHL grads in the NHL are Toronto Marlboros alumni, while 20% come from the Jr. Canadiens
- Twenty-five GTHL grads currently in the NHL were drafted in the first round, with two drafted first overall
- Approximately 8% of all NHL players have played in the GTHL
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