If you believe all the rankings and speculation surrounding the start of Wednesday’s W-H-L Bantam Draft, the stars aren’t likely going to align so that the Blades get to pick a highly-touted Saskatoon and area prospect with the fifth overall selection.

That doesn’t mean the two forwards, who played a level ahead this past season with the Midget AAA Saskatoon Contacts, aren’t wanting to play for their hometown W-H-L team.

“Ever since I’ve been a kid, obviously growing up here in Saskatoon, it’s been a dream to play for the Saskatoon Blades,” said forward Riley Heidt. “It would be awesome to get that experience, but yeah I’ll be happy with whoever picks me.”

“Playing at home, in front of family and fans, that would be pretty surreal,” explained Heidt’s buddy and fellow forward Brayden Yager. “I think I’ll be excited wherever I go, but I think Saskatoon would be a pretty good place.”

While Regina has publicly stated that they will take Vancouver-area prospect Connor Bedard with the first overall pick…in order…Prince George, Moose Jaw and Tri-Cities get the next three choices ahead of the Blades and the chance to nab Heidt and/or Yager. Both are considered to be no worse than fourth in independent scouting service rankings of the 2005-born draft class. As a result, Blades’ President and G-M Colin Priestner (pictured) is pessimistic of getting some elite local content for his team.

“I wouldn’t be holding out any hope that those guys will be there at five,” stated Priestner, who was then asked about the possibility of trying to trade up in the order in order to land one of the two locals. “I think the teams picking in those higher spots realize the kind of players that are there.”

Wednesday’s Bantam Draft will be done by remote, video conference call due to the COVID-19 pandemic.