The Windsor Spitfires are looking to boost their blue line.
With their 17th overall pick at the 2017 OHL Priority Selection draft Windsor selected defenceman Nathan Staios.
Staios is the son of Steve Staios, a former NHL hockey player, and current general manager of the Hamilton Bulldogs of the American Hockey League.
Getting drafted in the first round is something Nathan has been working towards his whole life.
"It's a dream come true, going to a great organization like Windsor. I got to meet the general manager, the coaches, and some of the guys when I went down there for a visit. It felt like home going there without being drafted and then finally being drafted there today. It's amazing news" says the Oakville, Ont. native.
He's listed at 5'8", 150 pounds and comes from the Vaughn Kings Minor Midget AAA's where he was team captain.
Like former Spitfire and current NHL defenceman Ryan Ellis, he says he knows he's going to have to play smarter and get stronger.
"Just using my hockey sense and skill to my advantage, make plays and just defend with my stick. Outsmart the bigger guys and then on smaller guys I can man up with them with my strength," he says.
Staios says he's looking forward to checking out the Memorial Cup, and can't wait for orientation camp.
"I just wanted to have a winning culture. In Windsor, they already have one established. Just fitting into that is going to be really fun. I've been around the game my whole life, the rink's like a second home to me. I'm just really looking forward to getting started there."
Windsor picks again at 96th overall in the 5th round.