Canmore’s Luke Philp has received an invitation to attend the Toronto Maple Leafs rookie camp.
After spending the last two years with the WHL’s Kootenay Ice, Philp went undrafted at the 2014 NHL entry draft, but will now have a chance to earn a pro contract as a walk-on with the Leafs. As an 18-year-old, he could earn a contract with their AHL team.
Philp spent one season with the Canmore Eagles, where he had 46 points in 48 games as a 16 year old.
Eagles head coach Andrew Milne said he was shocked when Philp was passed over at the NHL draft, but said he may have a better chance of making a pro squad as a free agent.
“When Luke didn’t get drafted, the entire hockey world was surprised. Now he’s in a good spot. The Leafs have high turnover and it’s a better situation for him than going to a team with depth like the Bruins.”
Eagles alumni Sam Brittain also signed his first pro contract this summer with the Florida Panthers, where he’ll have a shot at the backup role behind Roberto Luongo.
Milne said the fact former Eagles such as Kris Foucault, Brittain, Philp and Trey Phillips are earning a shot at the NHL is a good sign for the AJHL club.
“It speaks volumes to the quality of the organization. With Trey, we took time to develop him. With Luke, it happened quickly. We want to give each player the best opportunity possible,” Milne said.
The rookie camp kicks off in London, Ont. on Sept. 13 and runs until the 16th.
