Five days away from the 2018 NHL Draft and the number of decisions, for Anaheim Ducks GM Bob Murray to make, are piling up. This is when he earns his money.
Decision Time
We are at the time of year when hockey plans are written in pencil. From draft picks to trades, to free agents, Anaheim Ducks General Manager Bob Murray faces a constantly changing landscape. The only thing that is certain is that not much is certain.
All these different parts are inter-related with one theme in common, money. They must come together to form a “symphony of success,” even though these different parts are acting within dynamic atmospheres of there own. If anyone can blend the chaos into music and make it work at the conductor’s stand it’s Murray.
The Draft
The Ducks own the 23rd overall selection in the 2018 NHL Entry Draft. When Murray steps to the podium Friday night, his selection will be as much a function of who he wants as it is who’s still available. For all the prep work his staff has done the draft has a life of its own where the Anaheim Ducks pick.
Just like lungs, prospects rise up and fall down. What I’ve always found intriguing is that during draft week, teams look for reasons not to select a player. Suddenly, someone is too small or too slow or doesn’t have enough puck IQ. If recent history means anything, Murray will find a quality NHL talent.