Potential No. 1 offers unusual marketing opportunities

CAA Hockey is lined up for a big draft, representing several highly rated prospects who could be taken in the first round, including projected No. 1 pick Auston Matthews, a forward.

Since CAA Sports launched its hockey practice by hiring agents Pat Brisson and J.P. Barry in 2006, they have represented nearly 70 first-round draft picks, including five of the last 10 No. 1 overall picks.

Matthews has a background that sets him apart: He grew up in Phoenix as a Coyotes fan. “All the No. 1 picks have come from Canada or the northeast part of the U.S. or from Europe,” said Brisson, CAA Hockey co-head. Additionally, his mother, Ema, was born in Mexico.

Matthews’ background opens up some interesting marketing opportunities, Brisson said, but the marketing plan will depend on which NHL team drafts him. His hometown Coyotes will be part of the draft lottery, to be held April 30, but will have long odds at snagging the No. 1 pick. The draft itself is June 24 and 25.