The Niagara IceDogs have completed their two first round selections, taking defenceman Jesse Graham from the Toronto Young Nats sixth overall and teammate and fellow defenceman Luke Mercer with the eighth overall selection.

Graham is a 5'11" defenceman from Scarborough, ON who spent this past season with the Toronto Young Nats of the GTHL.  In 84 games, Graham picked up 14 goals and 74 assists for 84 points.  He is described as a smaller, skilled defenceman who plays a very active high risk, high reward style of game.  He possesses a very good stick, showing the ability to handle the puck and make plays, generally acting as the forth forward when he is on the ice.  He is also described as a player who displays a ton of poise and composure, especially when he is in possession of the puck.

Mercer, who was a teammate with Graham on the Toronto Young Nats is a Brampton, ON native who put up 9 goals and 51 assists in 72 games on the blueline.  Mercer is described as an effective defender who contributes in both ends of the rink while playing with a ton of poise and composure.  He is also described as someone who displays good individual skills and a real understanding of the game and his roles and responsibilities.  While he plays a very solid defensive game, he is also described as having an offensive upside.  He is also described as an intelligent player who makes good decisions to help give himself time and space to establish some good angles.

The entire IceDogs organization is excited to welcome both Jesse and Luke to Niagara and look forward to having both players as a part of the organization for years to come.