Laila Edwards Makes History as First Black Woman to Announce NHL Draft Pick

Laila Edwards became the first Black woman to announce an NHL Draft selection on June 28, 2024, at the Sphere in Las Vegas. Representing the San Jose Sharks, Edwards announced the team’s second-overall pick, Artyom Levshunov, and their ninth-overall selection, Zeev Buium. Her participation marked a significant moment for representation within the league’s high-profile entry event.

Groundbreaking Representation at the 2024 NHL Draft

The San Jose Sharks invited Laila Edwards to the podium to deliver the team’s top selections during the first round of the 2024 NHL Draft. Edwards, a standout forward for the University of Wisconsin women’s hockey team, has established herself as a prominent figure in the sport. According to the NCAA, she was the first Black woman to play for the U.S. Women’s National Team and earned MVP honors at the 2024 IIHF Women’s World Championship.

By selecting Edwards to announce their picks, the Sharks provided a platform for one of the game’s rising stars. The selection of Artyom Levshunov at number two overall and Zeev Buium at number nine highlights the organization’s focus on defensive prospects. Edwards’ presence at the podium served as a visual milestone, reflecting ongoing efforts by the NHL to diversify the sport’s visibility at the professional level.

Laila Edwards’ Rising Profile in Hockey

Edwards’ invitation to the draft follows a series of athletic accomplishments that have garnered national attention. During her sophomore season at the University of Wisconsin, she recorded 21 goals and 35 points in 41 games, according to Wisconsin Athletics. Her performance at the 2024 IIHF Women’s World Championship—where she netted a hat trick in a victory over Japan—cemented her status as a top-tier international competitor.

The decision to involve current elite athletes in draft proceedings is part of a broader trend of integrating women’s hockey stars into men’s league events. This inclusion highlights the interconnected nature of the sport’s development pipelines and provides fans with a broader view of hockey talent across gender lines.

Context of the San Jose Sharks’ Draft Strategy

The 2024 NHL Draft was a critical juncture for the San Jose Sharks, who held high-value picks following a challenging 2023-2024 season. The team’s focus on high-upside defensive talent reflects a long-term rebuild strategy. By choosing to have Edwards announce these specific picks, the organization amplified the significance of their draft night beyond the names on the jerseys.

The crowd at the Sphere responded with notable enthusiasm during the announcement, underscoring the positive reception of the league’s efforts to highlight diverse voices. As the NHL continues to adjust its draft presentation, the inclusion of figures like Edwards signals a shift toward inclusive participation in the sport’s most iconic annual traditions.

Key Facts About the 2024 NHL Draft

• Event Date: June 28, 2024.
• Location: The Sphere, Las Vegas, Nevada.
• Historical Significance: Laila Edwards is the first Black woman to announce an NHL Draft pick.
• San Jose Selections: The Sharks selected Artyom Levshunov (2nd) and Zeev Buium (9th).