The Millers replenished their prospect pool not in quantity, but by what they hope is quality after making 4 picks in the draft. Georgetown dealt a total of 6 picks to Fort Erie in 2 separate deals, with 2 going to move up to draft Chernyshov and 4 late picks dealt for a 2026 5th rounder.
4th Overall - Berkly Catton, C.
Long on the Millers radar, the Spokane pivot should provide the club with a long-sought dynamic offensive force. On skill alone Catton is probably the 3rd best Forward in this draft but his 5’10 height has him pegged in most mocks as falling outside the top 10. Georgetown decided to roll the dice regardless, hoping the speedy, shifty and intelligent scorer can translate his skill to at least a 2nd line C role or possibly as a top line Winger. Catton’s speed is also an asset on the penalty kill. Catton is likely 2 to 3 seasons away from featuring in the Millers lineup.
27th Overall - Igor Chernysov, W
The Millers traded picks 40 and 64 to Fort Erie to move up and acquire the Russian winger, having had him at 16 on their internal draft board. Chernysov is a solidly built 6’2 winger with above average skating ability and a direct north-south style. He saw some time in the KHL in a bottom line role and put up 3 goals while scoring over a point per game in the MHL. Chernyshov should see a bigger KHL role as a teen-ager in the upcoming season and his pro frame and playing style should help him make a quick transition to the North American game in 2 to 3 seasons.
72nd Overall- Carson Wetsch, W
With their next pick the Milers went back to the Western Hockey League and chose Calgary winger Carson Wetsch. The British Columbia native is already carrying 200 lbs on a 6’1 frame and profiles as middle 6 power-forward as a pro. Wetsch is likely to be a complimentary piece on a scoring line, doing the dirty work on the forecheck and in the corners and getting to the net to put in pucks. His skates very well for his size and has a plus wrister. At worst he’s a solid bottom 6 wing but hopes are he can support the 2nd and 3rd lines in his prime.
107th Overall - Maxim Tsyplakov, W
With their last pick the Millers decided to pick what they hope is immediate help in the 25 year-old Russian winger who is moving to the NHL after signing as a free agent. Tsyplakov exploded for 31 goals in his last KHL season, three times his previous career high. At 6’2 and 190 lbs his physical play is just as impressive as his shooting prowess. Assuming a smooth transition to the NHL, he should be a solid bottom 6 winger for a few years.
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