Photo: Gatineau Olympiques

The Capitals fifth round draft pick in the 2021 NHL draft and the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League’s (QMJHL) Gatineau Olympiques‘ most recent pick at the last CHL European auction, Haakon Hanelt, has pledged to play in North America this fall.

The 18-year-old German was played with Eisbären Berlin in the top German professional league last season. In last weeks NHL Draft, the Washington Capitals made Hanelt their 5th round pick (#151 overall). His arrival in Gatineau fits with the goals he sets for himself.

“I am extremely happy that Haakon has chosen to continue his career with us. His ultimate goal is to reach the NHL someday and he truly believes the best way to get there is to continue learning with us. For our part, we believe that his experience acquired during the last seasons with the professionals will be beneficial for our organization. He is a player who has faced men in recent years which is not negligible. Haakon has extraordinary offensive talent, in addition to being a very respectful young man. We welcome him to Gatineau ”- Louis Robitaille.

Hanelt turned 18 last month and spent last season playing with and against men for the Berlin Polar Bears in the Deutsche Eishockey League (DEL).

ELITE PROSPECTS

Good hands in tight, good physical puck protector, can play maybe all 5 skater positions. He is represented by Alan Walsh of Octagon Hockey.

ByJon Sorensen