Photo credit: Garrett James Photography
For the second year in a row, the NHL Draft will be held virtually, this time on Jul. 23 and 24. This year, there are nine current, former and future BCHL players that made NHL Central Scouting’s final rankings.
Leading up to the draft, we will be speaking with the prospects to get their thoughts on the process and variety of other subjects.
The BCHL’s 2021 NHL Draft coverage is presented by Chevrolet.
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At 134 among North American skaters, Chilliwack Chiefs forward Teleguine is ranked highest among last year’s crop of BCHL talent heading into the draft.
The 5-foot-10, 185-pound playmaker was the unanimous choice for Top Rookie in the Chilliwack Pod after he put up four goals and 14 assists for 18 points in 20 games.
Since the pod season ended, Teleguine announced his commitment to play for the University of Connecticut next season.
The 18-year-old gives us his perspective on the draft, his lone BCHL season and his commitment to UConn.
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BCHL: Since the pod season ended, you announced your commitment to the University of Connecticut. Why was that school the best fit for you?
Teleguine: UConn is one of those programs that are up and coming. They finished fourth in Hockey East and they broke ground on a $70-millon facility that will be open next year. They’re building their program and they’ve been one of those teams that are really focused on the development of their players, similar to Chilliwack and their coaching staff. They’re pretty offensive-minded and so am I. I thought that would be a good fit.
BCHL: Another thing that happened since the end of the BCHL season is that you were ranked 134th among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting. You had been on their midseason rankings all year, but what was your reaction to seeing your name on the final list.
Teleguine: I’m super grateful to even be on that list. It’s a pretty cool thing to have to your name there and be acknowledged by people in the sport. Having them see that ability in me is pretty cool, but at the end of the day, a list is a lit. Everyone has their opinions of each and every player. As far as the draft goes, I don’t know if it will have much of an influence on it. Many things change when it comes to draft day. People drop. People jump. I’m just trying to bury my head, work hard, keep training and we’ll see what happens.
BCHL: You’ve been on the draft radar all year. Is there anyone that you have leaned on for advice throughout the process?
Teleguine: I talked to my dad a lot. My dad has guided me in the hockey world my whole life, so I go to him for a lot of advice. I talk to him daily about just hockey in general. Then there are people like my advisor, coaches and some of my teammates. I definitely have a circle of people that I’ve talked to to help me get through and understand everything.
BCHL: This past year in the pod will end up being your one and only BCHL season. What will you remember about your experience in the league?
Teleguine: It was weird, but at the same time, I still really enjoyed it. It was a really great learning experience. I learned a lot as far as things about hockey and things about becoming an adult and getting ready for the next stage of life. It was definitely an unordinary season, playing a 20-game season, how crazy our schedule was and being patient and training for four months before it started. All in all, it was great. I met a lot of people and made a lot of new friends that I won’t forget about. It was definitely an unforgettable experience.
BCHL: If you were speaking to an NHL general manager who was thinking of selecting you, how would you describe your game and how would it translate to the pro level?
Teleguine: I think I’m a pretty intense player. I play at a fast pace. I think I’m skilled. I can make plays happen and I’m creative. My best attributes are my speed and skill.
BCHL: What would it mean to you if you end up getting selected at the draft?
Teleguine: Part of every single hockey player’s dream is getting selected in the draft. The other part is actually playing in the NHL. That’s something I’ve been working my whole life towards. I’ve put in so much hard work and dedication. All those hours spent on the ice with my dad and in the weight room, it would definitely mean the world to me. Getting to hear my name called on that stage would be a huge accomplishment.
