By Warren Kozireski —
With the final selection in the third round, the Maple Leafs chose forward Jeremy Bracco from the U.S National Development Program.
“Everyone thinks of going to Toronto with the storied history they have there and the support is second to none, so to be a part of the franchise is definitely an honor,” Bracco said after being selected.
“It’s one of the best feelings I’ve had so far in my career barring the U-18 medal with the guys I played with for two years, but this was a great personal goal of mine. I know the work just start here, but it’s been a great ride.”
The Freeport product and 5’9”, 173 lb. was tied for third on the team with 14 goals, tied for the team lead in plus/minus at +20 and stood fifth with 32 points over 24 games. He registered 94 points in 65 games as well as 13 in seven at the U-18 tournament with the United States.
Known most for his passing, Bracco was a key cog in tight games for USNTDP head coach Don Granato.
“I couldn’t get him on the ice enough in overtime,” Granato said in an interview with the NHL Network following the pick. “He’s waiting for it. He has ice in his veins.”
Hockey is in the Bracco blood as his father played at Dartmouth, one uncle at St. Lawrence and another uncle for Plattsburgh.
“They were really instrumental and they’ll keep pushing me for sure.”
“Where you’re picked doesn’t determine who you are or if you’ll lay in the NHL, so I hope I can help this team win in the future. I’m going to do everything I can to prove that I’m one of the best players in this draft. I think my hockey IQ is what separates me from a lot of guys.”
Bracco is slated to begin his collegiate career at Boston College this fall.
