Antoine Keller's NHL draft journey could bring France back to Olympic Ice Hockey after 23 years
In June 2023, few expected to hear the name Antoine Keller during the NHL Draft. While top prospects waited nervously in Nashville's Bridgestone Arena, Keller—a French-Swiss goaltender—was on vacation in Spain, convinced he wouldn't be picked.
But in a surprise move, the Washington Capitals selected him 206th overall in the seventh round, marking the beginning of an unexpected
NHL
journey.
Antoine
Keller
becomes 13th French NHL Draft pick
Keller's selection was historic. According to RMNB, only 12 French players had ever been drafted into the NHL before him. As the 13th French NHL draft pick, Keller's story became an instant inspiration for aspiring hockey players in France. 'I'm very happy. Very proud to represent my country,' Keller said after hearing the news.
The moment wasn't just personal—it was national.
Following the draft, the Washington Capitals extended an AHL contract to Keller for the 2025 season. This deal positions him to develop within the organization, potentially playing for their AHL affiliate, the Hershey Bears, and the ECHL's South Carolina Stingrays. These leagues will offer Keller critical North American experience and increased visibility as he progresses toward an NHL debut.
The 2025 NHL Draft Was Interesting...
Antoine Keller could end France's 23-year wait for an Olympic Hockey goalie
Beyond the NHL, Keller is now in serious contention to represent France at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina. At just 20 years old, he is expected to be among the three goaltenders selected for the French national team. If he makes the final Olympic roster, Keller will be the first French goalie to appear at the Winter Games since Cristobal Huet in 2002—a 23-year gap.
Cristobal Huet, a former NHL goaltender and current goalie coach, now mentors Keller.
Huet believes Keller has what it takes to compete at the highest level. 'There is a very, very good chance that Antoine is going to be on the team,' Huet told NHL.
FAQs
Who is Antoine Keller?
Antoine Keller is a French-Swiss goalie drafted by the Washington Capitals in 2023. He's only the 13th French player ever drafted into the NHL.
Will Keller play in the 2026 Winter Olympics?
He's a strong contender to join France's Olympic roster, which would make him the first French goalie at the Games since 2002.
Which teams will Keller play for?
He's set to play in the AHL with Hershey and may also see time in the ECHL with South Carolina in the Capitals' system.
A future star for France on NHL ice and Olympic stage
Keller's rapid rise drafted into the NHL, signed to an AHL contract, and now a leading Olympic hopeful signals a new era for French ice hockey. With dedication and elite training, he could soon become France's next great goaltender on both NHL ice and the Olympic stage.
Also Read:
Despite Alex Ovechkin and Brad Marchand in spotlight, NHL faces major scoring drop and viewership crash in 2024-25
His journey isn't just about breaking into professional hockey. It's about reigniting a country's presence in global ice hockey and ending a 23-year Olympic absence in goal.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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