HARTLEY’S HART ATTACK – (Interpreting Draft terminology) June 21, 2024 EDITION 998

The NHL Entry Draft goes next week on Friday and Saturday, June 28th and 29th in Las Vegas, the NBA Draft is also next week but on Wednesday and Thursday in Brooklyn, N.Y.

The WHL held its Prospects Draft last month, the NFL Draft was in late April in Detroit and
the MLB Draft is just around the corner on July 14th-16th in Fort Worth, Texas.

When talking to the media, General Managers use the same common lingo, commonly known as rhetoric. It is very likely one of the GM’s will make statements such as “how thrilled” they are with the new additions to their roster. Of course, most draft picks, particularly after the first two rounds don’t blossom, but this doesn’t dampen the enthusiasm.

As a result, I have decided to offer Hartley’s mock draft (rounds one to ten, although not all drafts go 10 rounds). It really doesn’t matter the sport or the team because my draft falls under one umbrella. Let’s assume the team takes one player in each round. I will quote directly from the draft dictionary and my subsequent observations and possible interpretation of the message:

Round One:   “He is an impact player. ” He should be outstanding and if he isn’t, the scouting department will pay the ultimate price.

Round Two:  “We actually had him rated as a first rounder.” This comment tries to boost the kid’s ego which has been severely bruised.

Round Three:  “We are very excited to get him.” A classic when it comes to the spin game. Everybody is always excited until the guy shows up for camp.

Round Four:  “This is a character mature kid who comes from a great family.” A round of applause please for Mom and Dad.

Round Five: “The kid has grit.” Perhaps, but grit and talent don’t have the same meaning.

Round Six:  “He could be the steal of the draft.” Let’s just hope his background check is okay and that kleptomania doesn’t run in his family.

Round Seven:  “He comes to play.” Really? I thought he came to eat a burger with fries or sit on the bench.

Round Eight: “He led his team in scoring.” His team and/or opposition may not have been that good.

Round Nine: “He is honest and hard working.” Poor guy was blessed with no skill.

Round Ten:  “He was well worth the risk.” Are there injury or law issues to be concerned about?

If the above jargon isn’t your favorite, then the following phrases may catch your attention:

“He is a leader” So is Edmonton Elks coach Chris Jones. What does that mean?
“He was the best player available” Says who?
“He has size” Too bad he isn’t auditioning to be a bouncer or security guard.
“He likes to win” There are not many players that prefer to lose.
“He’s dedicated” As long as he gets prominent playing time.
“He’s a scorer” Does he know the meaning of defense?
“He’s got talent” For what?
“He has good hands” This is a sure sign he will deliver a strong handshake.
“He has a great vision” Terrific! He can read a chart.
“He’s a hidden gem” The nice term for longshot.
“He has plenty of “upside” Chances are he will not reach his potential.
“He’s strong defensively” Sounds like he lacks offensive skill.
“He’s the complete package” And Loomis Express is happy to deliver.