Colorado – Joey Cupido (RD)
There isn’t a defender in the league that has earned more trust from his goaltender than Joey Cupido. Cupido is Dillon Ward’s preferred target. The former two-time All-Canadian football star runs “go” routes to spark transition. He finished behind only Shane Simpson in transition points (5 G, 6 A) for the 2019/20 season. His presence alone puts the opposing bench-side forwards on notice.
Georgia – Joel White (RD)
Panther City may not actually need to make this selection* because of the franchise designation that prevents an unrestricted free agent from signing elsewhere. The soon-to-be 32-year-old would be the cornerstone of the defensive unit and a favourite to wear a letter. White snagged 9.15 loose balls per 20 minutes, which placed him 3rd among defenders that did not take faceoffs. On top of his performance on the floor, White resides in Nashville, which would mean a reasonable two-hour flight into DFW International Airport.
*If Panther City can use the franchise tag on White without selecting him, then my pick would be Connor Sellars.
Halifax – Mike Burke (RF)
Burke is a low-usage player who can create space and play off-ball. The addition of Burke eases the learning curve for Marshal King, Connor Kelly (see below), and Donville/Lanchbury.
