This summer, the NHL once again found part of its future in Lewiston. The 2008 NHL Entry Draft took place from June 20 – June 21 in Ottawa; and, as expected, Lewiston goaltender Peter Delmas and forward Danick Paquette can now look forward to the NHL.

Delmas was picked up in the 2nd round, 61st overall, by the Colorado Avalanche. The Lewiston net minder was ranked 3rd overall among North American goaltenders by NHL central scouting. Last year during the 2007-2008 season, Delmas frequently stepped in goal for fellow MAINEiacs goaltender Jonathan Bernier, and quickly became a force to be reckoned with in the QMJHL. During his 34 games in goal for the MAINEiacs last season, Delmas ended the year with a 17-17 record and a .903 save percentage. Delmas was the 6th overall goalie, and the 8th member of the QMJHL to be selected.

Only three picks later, fellow MAINEiac Danick Paquette was drafted in the 3rd round, 64th overall, by the Atlanta Thrashers. He was ranked 45th overall among all North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting. Paquette was featured in many articles following the 2007-2008 season highlighting his grit, determination, and philanthropic nature. The Montreal native notched 29 goals and 13 assists for the MAINEiacs last season. Paquette was the 7th overall right wing, and 9th member of the QMJHL to be selected.

Around the CHL, 27 players were drafted out of the QMJHL, and 37 players were drafted out of the WHL. However, the OHL ruled the roost, getting 47 players selected from their league. Other QMJHL notables selected in the draft were Montreal goalie Jake Allen (STL), Chicoutimi center Nicolas Deschamps (ANA), Saint John defenseman Yann Sauve (VAN), and Val-D’Or forward Maxime Sauve (BOS).