Joyeux Noel

The Saint John Sea Dogs have selected centre Nathan Noel (pronounced 'Nole') with the third overall pick in today’s Quebec Major Junior Hockey League Entry Draft.

“I can’t say exactly where I want to go, but it would definitely be great to get to Saint John,” Noel told the St. John’s Telegram yesterday.

Noel, a St. John’s native, registered 10 goals and 30 assists in 52 games at Shattuck St. Mary’s last season. He also played for Team Atlantic at the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge where he recorded two assists in five games.

The 15-year old forward is listed as 5’10”, 158 on the QMJHL website.

Noel was ranked third by QMJHL Central Scouting, fourth by International Scouting Services, and fourth by HockeyProspect.com.

“Nathan is a dynamic player who plays with deceptive speed, skill and determination,” states the ISS draft guide. “His short quick strides and ability to change lanes quickly allow him to gain open ice. His quick hands allow him to make something out of nothing.

“One thing that separates Nathan from the other high end forwards is his ability to be physical when he needs to be.”

“Noel has all the tools to become an impact offensive player at the junior level: quick hands, high-end tools with the puck, elusiveness, good puck control at high speed and a good wrist shot with a quick release,” the HockeyProspect.com draft guide states.

“His knack to score spectacular goals makes him an electric player to watch with the puck.”

This is the fourth straight year that Saint John has used their top pick in the draft to select a forward.

The Sea Dogs will also be selecting 17^th overall in the first round of today’s draft.