The Hartford Whalers will most likely be unable to attend the Free Agent Draft
to be held Sunday evening. This creates a grave problem for the Whalers
organization which went out and traded for 5 draft picks in the first two
rounds and has 7 total picks in the first 2 rounds (4 in the 1st).
Unfortunately, Commisioner Matthew Peck has stood firm on his request for a
draft list of only 15 players and on not allowing others to draft for Hartford.
Thus, the Whalers find themselves frustrated, disheartened, angry and in an
unexpected pickle. The draft order has yet to be released and thus, the
Whalers are not sure where they will be drafting. Aside from their own picks,
which are sure to be in the top 10, Owner Jeremy Chrabascz has said that he
"hasn't a damn clue" where the picks they obtained from Punxatawney, Deadwood,
Motor City and Medina would fall. He also stated this morning via cell phone
that the 15 player limit on the draft list would "surely hamper our ability to
pull in top talent and or fill our needs."
Chrabascz is reportedly considering trading many of the picks he now views as
"worthless to us (Whalers)." They are looking to move up and are willing to
trade all 3 Second Round picks to obtain another top 15 First Round pick. They
also seem willing to move players, if need be, to move up in the draft as well.
