Calgary Flames prospect to switch leagues after academic struggles

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Tom Banks
July 5, 2024 (11:00 PM)

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The Calgary Flames believe they landed two stars in the first round of the 2024 NHL Draft, but unfortunately, one has now switched leagues after plenty of drama.

Despite being committed to the University of Michigan, Calgary Flames first-round pick Matvei Gridin received another honour this week, being drafted No. 1 overall in the CHL Import Draft. This raised questions over his commitment to Michigan, and now we know why the Val-d'Or Foreurs were confident in picking him No. 1.

#Flames 🇨🇦 prospect Matvei Gridin (@matvey_gridin) 🇷🇺 is no longer going to the University of Michigan (NCAA) 🇺🇸 due to insufficient grades.

He was drafted first overall by Val-d'Or Foreurs (QMJHL) 🇨🇦 in the 2024 Canadian Hockey League import draft, but is expected to have his QMJHL rights traded to Rimouski Oceanic 🇨🇦

Gridin, 18, was drafted 28th overall by Calgary in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, and had 38 goals, 83 points through 60 games played with the Muskegon Lumberjacks (USHL) 🇺🇸 this season.

Reportedly, the situation surrounding Gridin was his grades, which isn't a surprise given he came to North America at 15 and had to learn a whole new language while also adapting to hockey. According to a reporter, the team are looking to trade him, and whether or not that happens, it has been confirmed that he will play in the QMJHL this season.

I can confirm @ConnorEaregood's report re: Gridin no longer going to Michigan. Grades weren't where they needed to be. Val-d'Or looking to trade him once camp opens, again I'm told to Rimouski (unless it falls apart between then and now).

Only time will tell whether or not this is a good thing for Gridin, but now he'll be closer to home for Calgary to continue watching his exciting development.

Source: Blade of Steel
Calgary Flames first round pick forced to change league