Vegas Golden Knights Select Trevor Connelly in 2024 NHL Draft

The Vegas Golden Knights have added a promising talent to their roster, selecting forward Trevor Connelly with the 19th overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. Hailing from Tustin, California, Connelly has showcased his skills with the Tri-City Storm in the USHL over the past two seasons.

In his tenure with the Tri-City Storm, Connelly has amassed an impressive record, notching 55 goals and 125 points in 109 games. His standout performance in the 2023-24 season saw him secure 31 goals and finish as the second-highest scorer in the USHL with 78 points.

Despite his on-ice prowess, Connelly’s draft selection was met with some controversy due to past off-ice incidents. A Snapchat post in 2022 featuring a teammate and a swastika-shaped block formation stirred controversy, leading to Connelly undergoing diversity training and community service. Additionally, he faced accusations of using a racial slur during a game in 2021, but the claims could not be substantiated by a youth hockey association committee.

Following the draft pick, Golden Knights general manager Kelly McCrimmon addressed the selection, emphasizing Connelly’s talent and potential impact on the team. McCrimmon acknowledged the off-ice incidents but expressed confidence in Connelly’s ability to represent the organization positively.

Connelly’s recent achievements include a bronze medal at the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup and a silver medal at the 2024 U18 World Junior Championship with Team USA. His draft by the Golden Knights marks a significant step in his promising hockey career.

This draft pick adds depth to the Vegas Golden Knights roster and highlights the team’s strategic approach to talent acquisition as they prepare for the upcoming NHL season.