Future Wolverine J.T. Compher one of many NTDP products drafted in Jersey

By Mark Burns –

NEWARK, N.J. — In the 2013 NHL Entry Draft this past weekend in Newark, New Jersey, there was no shortage of draftees from the U.S. National Team Development Program; in all, 17 players affiliated with the Michigan-based program heard their names called at the Prudential Center.

One of those individuals was J.T. Compher, who the Buffalo Sabres selected in the second round with the 35th overall pick.

“It’s great to be wanted,” Compher said at the draft. “It’s a great organization. I think it’s going to be a great opportunity for me in the next couple years to try and make the club.”

Compher — a University of Michigan commit for the 2013-14 season — played a total of 53 games for the NTDP, tallying 20 goals and 31 assists over two seasons to go along with 60 penalty minutes.

“The program has made USA hockey very competitive over the last 10, 20 years,” Compher said following his selection. “I think it showed today with Seth Jones going early, Ryan Hartman, Mike McCarron. There are some great players coming out of the national program. It’s just making USA hockey that much better.”

A self-proclaimed “agitator,” Compher will join fellow Wolverine draft picks Michael Downing (Florida – 4th round – 97th overall), Andrew Copp (Winnipeg – 4th round – 104th overall), and Tyler Motte (Chicago – 4th round – 120th overall).

“J.T. combines the attributes of skill and will in his game,” said TSN scout Craig Button. “Has a strong competitive fire and is not easily denied. Very good quickness and he is capable of making plays at high speed and can beat defenders one-on-one. Has good hands with a good shot and is able to play in tight areas. Very good awareness and makes good plays with and without puck in all areas.”

As of now, Compher is slated to attend Buffalo’s development camp, which was announced on Tuesday. The camp will run from July 10-12 and consist of two practice sessions and a scrimmage.