FridayOL

The Winnipeg Jets have made a splash at the 2024 NHL Draft, selecting dynamic forward Sascha Boumedienne with the 28th overall pick on Friday night in Los Angeles. The pick, made at the Crypto.com Arena, signals the Jets' commitment to adding speed and skill to their roster, a strategy that General Manager Kevin Cheveldayoff emphasized following the selection.

“His speed is an attribute that jumps out,” Cheveldayoff stated. “But it’s more than just speed; it’s how he utilizes it. He transitions quickly, creates separation, and forces defenders to react. We believe he has the potential to become a significant contributor to our team.”

Boumedienne, a 6’0”, 185-pound right-shooting winger, spent last season with the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), where he tallied 34 goals and 42 assists for a total of 76 points in 67 games. His offensive prowess and ability to generate scoring chances consistently impressed scouts throughout the season. Beyond his scoring touch, Boumedienne’s two-way game has also drawn praise. He demonstrates a willingness to backcheck and contribute defensively, a quality highly valued by the Jets’ coaching staff.

The Jets entered the draft with a clear need for forward depth and a desire to inject more offensive creativity into their lineup. Boumedienne appears to perfectly fit that mold. His skating ability, combined with his developing skill set, positions him as a high-potential prospect with the ability to make an impact at the NHL level relatively quickly.

“We’ve been tracking Sascha for a long time,” Cheveldayoff continued. “We’ve had extensive conversations with him and his family, and we’re thrilled to welcome him to the Jets organization. He’s a young man with a great work ethic and a desire to learn. We believe he’ll thrive in our environment.”

While Boumedienne is unlikely to challenge for a roster spot immediately, the Jets plan to provide him with the necessary development to reach his full potential. He will likely spend at least another season in the QMJHL or potentially move to a professional league to continue honing his skills. The Jets’ development staff is confident in their ability to guide Boumedienne’s progression and prepare him for a successful NHL career.

The selection of Boumedienne represents a strategic move by the Jets, addressing a key area of need while adding a player with significant upside. As the draft continues, the Jets will look to further bolster their roster and build towards a future of sustained success. Fans in Winnipeg are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to watch Boumedienne develop and potentially become a cornerstone of the team for years to come.