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Three CHLers picked in First Round of NHL Entry Draft
Willander was drafted from the team that won the 2022 season of the CHL and has emphasised youth development (Photo: Andreas Ljunggren)

It was a big night for rising hockey stars around the world, but especially for three talented youngsters who featured in hockey rinks across Europe in last season's Champions Hockey League.

Of course, we are talking about Tom Willander of Rögle Ängelholm, Axel Sandin Pellikka, who played for Skellefteå AIK in the CHL last season, and Otto Stenberg of Frölunda Gothenburg.

Here's a look at who went where in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft!

Pick #11 - Tom Willander

It couldn't have come as a surprise to see Willander picked in the first half of the NHL Entry Draft first round to anyone who has seen this workhorse defenceman play.

He's a dependable, focused player with a type of fluidity to his game that is hard to find in players his age. He reads the game well and is great at picking out passes to teammates.

Willander is also very humble and mature, which is why he'll be continuing his development in the NCAA rather than jumping into something he might not be 100% ready for.

Pick #17 - Axel Sandin Pellikka

18-year-old rising star Axel Sandin Pellikka spent four seasons powering through the ranks of Skellefteå AIK's youth teams until he made his big breakthrough into the first team last season. 

The defenceman jumped on for seven CHL games last season, displaying his nice puck skills, solid shot and two-way play against a variety of European opponents.

That was all deemed perfect by the Detroit Red Wings, who will take Pellikka under their red wings - a huge night for this young player!

Pick #25 - Otto Stenberg

Otto Stenberg played for Frölunda Gothenburg since the U16 category and made his way into the first team of the four-time CHL Champions last season, playing 25 games for them, including two starts in the CHL. 

The skilled fast-paced forward caught the eye of the St. Louis Blues last night and was picked by them at pick #25. 

 
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