Sudbury Wolves took No. 2 overall to Sad Quinton Bayfield by the Los Angeles Kings on Tuesday night, making him the highest-ranked black player in NHL history.
“Quinton is an exceptionally young and talented player with a very bright future,” said Kings general manager Rob Blake. “We are proud that we are adding it to our organization and look forward to the next stages of its development and a promising career in LA.”
Bayfield, 18, is a native of Newmarket, Nantario, Canada. Her father, Clinton, is originally from Jamaica.
Bayfield told NHL.com earlier this year, “It’s always nice to be on top for something and being top pick among players of color will definitely be something special to me.” “I think the game is changing, and the NHL is becoming more diverse. Kids will be inspired to start playing hockey knowing they can play and that hockey is for everyone.”
San Jose Sharks forward Evander Kane (2009, Atlanta Thrashers) and Columbus Blue Jackets defender Seth Jones (2103, Nashville Predators) shared the previous record number 4 of the most composed black player in the NHL.
After the selection of Bayfield, Kane tweeted, “Congratulations to @ Bayfield 55 for their 2nd overall selection and became the most drafted black player in history.”
–Foot-4, the 215-pound center has posted 143 points and a plus-38 rating in 109 regular-season games in its two seasons in the Ontario Hockey League. He was the No. 2 ranked North American skater behind Alexis Lafranier, who was selected first overall by the New York Rangers.
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