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Incoming Boston College freshman Sonny Milano has been drafted by the Columbus Blue Jackets with the #16 overall pick in the first round of the NHL Draft. Milano was the second American and second college player to be selected in the draft, going right after Michigan's Dylan Larkin.
As we know, the Columbus Blue Jackets selected and developed another speedy, dynamic BC forward in Cam Atkinson, who played three years with the Eagles. This bodes well, as rumor has it Milano would be willing to eschew his commitment and go the major junior route if his NHL team requested that he do so. Given that Columbus already has a connection with Boston College, you know they are aware of how well players can develop in the NCAA.
Milano put up boffo numbers in the USHL for the US U-18 team last year, scoring 86 points in 58 games. He also scored 10 points for the US team at the world Under-18 championships. Milano is expected to be a major contributor right away at BC this year, along with his linemate Alex Tuch, who will probably be drafted soon.
Congrats, Sonny!
Oh, and to toot my horn a bit:
Gonna go out on a limb and predict Columbus will take Sonny Milano next.
— BC Interruption (@bcinterruption) June 28, 2014