The Utah Hockey Club has acquired the 24th overall pick of the 2024 NHL Draft from the Colorado Avalanche in exchange for the 38th and 71st overall picks, as well as a second-round selection in the 2025 NHL Draft (X Link).
Using the pick, Utah selected Cole Beaudoin from the Barrie Colts in the Ontario Hockey League. By moving three draft picks to the Avalanche, Utah gained the ability to make their second selection of the day while Colorado trades out of the first round entirely.
Beaudoin took a big step forward in his second season with the Colts as the young forward scored 28 goals and 62 points in 67 games after scoring eight goals and 20 points a year before. Long-term, Beaudoin has the playstyle of a third-line forward but has the creativity to be an effective middle-six option at the NHL level. He carries a high motor and is never hesitant to engage in battles anywhere on the ice.
It is a bit surprising to see the Avalanche trade out of the first round, as the team is desperate for cheap NHL-ready talent. It is unlikely that Colorado could have found a player to immediately step into the lineup at this point in the first round, but it is apparent the team is looking for quantity over quality in this year’s draft. Because of the trade, Colorado will have to wait until tomorrow to make their first selection of the 2024 NHL Draft.
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