You could say Nikolai Evans was the first player in this draft class to celebrate a “first.” In his first time through the draft process, Evans was selected first overall by the Montrael Militia to start the S45 SMJHL Entry Draft. In some ways, this was a surprise to Evans, as many a pundit expected Borromini Cannellini to be Montreal’s pick thanks to his connections with the organization. Instead, the Militia selected Evans, pointing to his proud heritage as the son of Zach Evans and Ekaterina Rudnikova and their need for an offensive defenseman.

Soon, the S46 SHL Draft will be upon us. Nikolai was ecstatic with his draft position in the SMJHL Draft, but has worked all season to prove it was a worthwhile selection for Montreal. Now, he looks to take it one step further and prove he deserves merit as the first overall pick of the SHL Draft, which we now know belongs to the Hamilton Steelhawks. Only time will tell if this actually plays out, but young Nikolai, as always, is confident.