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Golden Knights select Zach Dean in first round of 2021 draft

On an extremely hectic day that saw lots of trades around the league, the Vegas Golden Knights stood pat and held onto their assets. With one of those assets, the Golden Knights drafted center Zach Dean in the first round (No. 30 overall) of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft.

The selection of Dean marks the fifth time the Golden Knights have taken a center in the first round of the draft.

Heading into the draft, it was unclear if Dean would be available at pick No. 30, but the Golden Knights snagged the 6-foot, 176-pound center.

Dean was very impressive in his two seasons with the Gatineau Olympiques of the QMJHL, tallying 28 goals and 66 points in 80 regular season games, including 20 points in 23 games last year. He played in all situations and wore the “A” this past season.

Dean is an excellent skater with great playmaking ability, but he’s more than capable of finding the back of the net as well. He has incredible speed and played both center and wing this past season.

He was ranked 21st among North American Skaters by Central Scouting.

Here’s how Elite Prospects described the native of Grand Prairie, Alberta.

“Dean plays at a breakneck pace, stacking his skill as a handler and a passer on top of his skating ability to make plays without a moment’s hesitation. His hands work independent of his feet, with his top arm free from his side, pushed out well in front of him to grant him as much maneuverability as possible. If you get open, he’ll get you the puck. It’s just that simple.”

The 2021 NHL Entry Draft continues Saturday morning at 8 a.m. Vegas has picks No. 36, 114, 155, 190, and 222