Aram Minnetian (Woodcliff Lake, N.J.) has taken his next big step toward a potential National Hockey League career.
After two solid seasons with the U.S. National Team Development Program in southeastern Michigan, the right-shot defenseman was selected in the fourth round (125th overall) of the 2023 NHL Entry Draft by the Dallas Stars, who advanced to the Western Conference final of the Stanley Cup playoffs this past season.
“It was surreal,” recalled Minnetian of the draft day experience at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville in late June. “There was a lot of nerves and waiting, and the biggest weight fell off when I heard my name.
“I was so happy,” admitted the 5-foot-11, 192-pound defender. “I saw my mom and dad and gave them a hug, and it was the best feeling ever.”