Latest at the Hockey Writers: a Flames draft preview

 

 

One year ago, newly-promoted Calgary Flames general manager Jay Feaster went to the podium at the Xcel Energy Center and pulled a rabbit out of his hat. Drafting 13th overall in the first round, Feaster chose Swiss winger Sven Baertschi. Within the year, Baertschi had dominated the WHL and spent two weeks in the NHL with the Flames during an injury recall stint.

The rookie didn’t look a bit out of place.

Now firmly entrenched in his general manager’s office, the pressure is on for Feaster to once again have a strong draft after selecting Baertschi, NCAA standout John Gaudreau, WHL playoff MVP Laurent Brossoit and others at the 2011 draft.