Wrapping up the 2024 NHL Draft, the Flyers used their seventh-round pick on the local Vegas product in Austin Moline. And before we get into his stats and look at his overall game, major props to Moline for attending the draft in person.
Ranked as the 181st North American skater by NHL Central Skating, it was going to be quite some time before Moline heard his name called. But it was all about having a chance to be drafted in his hometown. In being selected, Moline became the first Las Vegas native to be drafted into the NHL. It has been an honor for him to be in a position like this. And he hopes he's not the last either.
“It feels great to represent this city. I’m sure in the next 5, 10 years there’s going to be a lot of great players that come out of here too, so I can’t wait to watch that too.”
Austin Moline becomes first ever Las Vegas native drafted to the NHL
The first thing you’ll notice about Moline is his size. He stands at 6’4” and weighs 194 lbs. He was a towering presence on the blue line for Shattuck St. Mary’s U18 Prep squad. He’s not an offensive defenseman, potting eight goals and 35 points in 57 games. But that doesn’t stop him from sprinting up the ice as a trailer or finding open ice.
He uses a long reach to disrupt plays more than he finds a way to drive players away from the middle of the ice. So while he has a rather large frame, he does need to work on his physicality. Moline does need to round out the rest of his overall game as well.
Before going to Northern Michigan University in 2025, Moline will continue to develop with the Brooks Bandits in the BCHL. Bandits head coach and general manager Ryan Papaioannou showed excitement in signing Moline and being able to further his development.
“He comes to us well trained from a great program at Shattuck. He can create offence while using his frame to defend with strength. We are looking forward to working with him prior to his college career at Northern Michigan.”
And with that, the 2024 NHL Draft has come to an end. The Flyers added seven new prospects to their organization, including Moline.