Best friends Jayden Napon and Malik L'Italien, both 16 and sharing the same birthday, were drafted by the Halifax Mooseheads in the recent QMJHL draft. L'Italien, a third overall pick, is expected to make the team, while Napon, a fifth-round pick, faces a tougher path but is motivated by the chance to play with his longtime friend.
These teens have been friends forever. Now they'll try to make the Mooseheads together
MontréalMontréal (region)QuébecJayden NaponMalik L'ItalienBirthdaysSports
AI Summary
TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️Best friends Jayden Napon and Malik L'Italien, both 16 and sharing the same birthday, were drafted by the Halifax Mooseheads in the recent QMJHL draft. L'Italien, a third overall pick, is expected to make the team, while Napon, a fifth-round pick, faces a tougher path but is motivated by the chance to play with his longtime friend.
- 1 More than a decade ago: Jayden Napon and Malik L'Italien first met.
- 2 This past season: Napon played midget AAA hockey for Laval-Montréal Rousseau-Royal; L'Italien played at Stanstead College.
- 3 Recent: QMJHL draft took place.
- 4 Next year: Napon hopes to make the Mooseheads team.
- Jayden Napon has extra motivation to make the Halifax Mooseheads team.
- Potential for the two best friends to play together professionally in the QMJHL.
What: Best friends Jayden Napon and Malik L'Italien were both drafted by the Halifax Mooseheads in the QMJHL draft and are now aiming to make the team together.
When: Recent QMJHL draft; 'this past season' (for their previous teams); 'next year' (for making the Mooseheads team).
Where: Halifax, Nova Scotia; Montreal, Quebec; Stanstead College, Quebec (near Vermont border).
Why: The Halifax Mooseheads drafted both players, giving the long-time friends an opportunity to continue playing hockey together, which provides extra motivation, especially for Napon.
How: Malik L'Italien was picked third overall and advocated for Jayden Napon, who was subsequently drafted in the fifth round. Their long-standing friendship and chemistry from playing together are expected to be an asset.