If there’s one tradition that Nation readers have come to expect it’s for us to throw a yearly draft party to reap the rewards of our failures. Edmonton has been so bad for so long that the only thing we’ve ever really been able to celebrate is the collection of another top prospect at the Draft in June. We’ve turned those failing seasons into plenty of draft party memories and we want to do it again. The only problem with our tradition is that it really depended on the team being bad so now that they’ve turned things around we’re confused about what we should do. The answer? Party anyway.

When we were trying to figure out whether or not to throw a draft party this year we were racking our brains about how we could make this year’s draft fun and what we could do to get the Nation together. The team picks 22nd for the first time since 2008 and being forced to wait around that long before Swag Daddy is allowed to pick someone is something that we’re not used to around these parts. Let’s be honest, we’re usually four or five shots deep by the time the 22nd pick has rolled around so was there going to be an appetite to party for a pick so late in the first round? We’re betting on “yes.” The Nation loves to party and we’re giving you another chance to do so.

After deciding that we are indeed going to throw another draft party we had to figure out what was going to be the theme. Even though there wasn’t going to be any dishonour for Connor, Fall for Hall, or anything close to the exhilaration that comes with drafting first overall we kept thinking back to all of the laughs we’ve had with you guys at these events. *leaves pause for ‘awwwwwwwww moment’ from the crowd* The community that we’ve built here is a lot of fun to be around and any time we can get together is always an event worth doing. With that in mind, we decided that this year’s draft party should be free (FREE!) to attend but still have all of the giveaways and chances at prizes that you’re used to. With no tickets required, the only thing you have to worry about is getting to the Pint early enough to grab your swag bag and a table before the draft starts.

At the end of the day, what I’m really telling you is to get there as early as you possibly can, but, if you can’t, just to get there whenever you can. In fact, I would actually encourage you to start playing up a cough or something so that your boss won’t be suspicious when you call in sick next Friday. Besides, you’re going to want to get your greedy little mitts on this year’s swag bag. What’s in the swag bags? Over $100 worth of stuff and a chance at the grand prize, that’s what.*clears throat* Now, pay attention and let me learn you something.

Tickets: You don’t need one, homie. This is a FREE EVENT!