Latvian defenseman Alberts Šmits selected fifth overall in NHL draft; Lithuanian forward Simas Ignatavičius taken 40th; Bērzkalns becomes USHL runner-up
In the NHL draft, the New York Rangers selected Latvian defenseman Alberts Šmits with the fifth overall pick, the Florida Panthers took Lithuanian forward Simas Ignatavičius at 40th, and Rūdolfs Bērzkalns became USHL vice champion with the Lumberjacks.
Several notable selections were made during the NHL draft on Friday. The New York Rangers chose Latvian defenseman Alberts Šmits with the fifth overall pick, making him the highest-drafted Latvian player in NHL history.
The Florida Panthers opened the second round by selecting Lithuanian forward Simas Ignatavičius with the 40th overall pick. He becomes only the third Lithuanian player ever selected in the NHL draft. Ignatavičius holds dual Lithuanian and U.S. citizenship and has represented Lithuania at the international level.
The Toronto Maple Leafs selected forward Gavin McKenna with the first overall pick. Meanwhile, Rūdolfs Bērzkalns, who played for the Muskegon Lumberjacks last season, became the USHL runner-up.
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