from Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press,

The other guy billed as a top-four pick was Yzerman, who was listed as 5-11, 177 pounds. At a media gathering a Montreal hotel the week of the draft, Yzerman described himself as “a not very rugged player” but one who plays “a skating, play-making game. I move the puck well.” The Central Scouting Bureau described 18-year-old Yzerman as “mentally tough … great desire and attitude with excellent hockey sense … good leadership qualities.”

The Wings coveted LaFontaine because he grew up in Waterford and was considered a slam dunk to increase ticket sales. He was due to graduate from Waterford Kettering High School later that June.

“I’ve heard some people dream about LaFontaine slipping to four,” Devellano said two days before the draft. “If he gets by two, there’s a hell of a chance he’ll slip to four.”

LaFontaine did get by two, as the Whalers chose Turgeon. But the Islanders chose LaFontaine at third. His name drew cheers from the crowd in the stands. Seated in the second row of the Forum seats, LaFontaine hugged his parents and his agent.

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