In recent years, it has became commonplace for critics to bemoan the state of Massachusetts hockey, with claims that this area is no longer producing the top-notch talent it once did, lagging behind Minnesota and Michigan in producing star-quality players.
If that was true, it certainly isn’t any more, not with players from Massachusetts set to play such a prominent role in this weekend’s NHL entry draft.
The Commonwealth will be represented in Friday night’s first round by projected No. 2 pick Jack Eichel of North Chelmsford, potential No. 3 selection Noah Hanifin of Norwood and possible late first-rounder Colin White of Hanover.