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In one of his post-season interviews. Even the interviewer thought Petruzzelli would hit UFA if he didn't sign by the summer, but Yzerman stated that because he wants to finish school, Wings retain the right for another year. This exception is only for players finishing school though, which is why I guess it isn't well known as most players jump at the chance to go pro asap. Here is the ruling on it: (i) If a Player drafted at age 18 or 19 is a bona fide college student at the time of his selection in the Entry Draft, or becomes a bona fide college student prior to the first June 1 following his selection in the Entry Draft, and remains a bona fide college student through the graduation of his college class, his drafting Club shall retain the exclusive right of negotiation for his services through and including the August 15 following the graduation of his college class. The Club need not make a Bona Fide Offer to such Player to retain such rights. tl;dr: Wings will retain his rights until August 15th of next year

And if we don't have the goaltender we need in the system, we can always find one easier than a 1/2 C or a top pair dman. If Yzerman had his top 2 centers set, had a few really good wingers, and at least his top pair D ready, I might take a flyer on a goalie in the first round. But he doesn't. You have got to use your high picks on guys who are more likely to pan out than goalies, and guys who play positions that are harder to fill than goalies.