By Jeff D'Andrea

Rich Pilon has Isle flashbacks when cousin Ryan gets drafted

Jun 27, 2015 | 3:34 PM

When Ryan Pilon was drafted 147th overall by the New York Islanders, Rich Pilon couldn’t help but get flashbacks.

Back in 1986, Rich was drafted 143rd overall by the same Islanders, with whom he played his first 12 years in the NHL.

Although it’s been widely reported that Rich and Ryan are uncle and nephew, Rich said they’re actually third cousins. Rich was proud and excited when he heard the news, regardless of how they’re related.

“Good for him that he went to the Islanders. I spent my whole career there and I got a soft spot for that team, I always have for being drafted by them,” said Rich, a former Prince Albert Raider who’s on the Wall of Honour. “They did a lot for me, for my career. They kept me around longer than they probably should have. Good for him, he’s going to a good team. They’ve turned things around there so I’m excited for him.

“I’m excited anytime a kid gets drafted and works hard, all to go with the same last name that we have and with somewhat of a relation,” added Rich. “I’m excited for him and his family. I know his dad Mike really well… I always say (getting drafted) is the next step in his career in hockey and now it’s up to him.

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“He’s got his foot in the door now, and it’s up to him to get the gym and work, stay disciplined, stay focused and do everything he can to play at the next level.”

When Rich talks about the importance of discipline, he doesn’t just mean avoiding taking a dumb penalty. He’s talking about off-ice discipline and how that can shorten one’s career, something he knows firsthand.

Rich recalls that beer was in the dressing room and players would often go out to get some more after leaving the arena. During his career, Rich’s immense love of hockey became overshadowed with his love for the bottle.

“I was fortunate to play as long as I did, but I ended putting myself in a situation—I probably could have played another couple years. I’m proud of say I’m an alcoholic who hasn’t had a drink in 11 years,” said Rich. “You fall in love with (drinking) and you forget that as a player and as an adult, my love was hockey. That’s how powerful booze can be.

“If I had advice for Ryan or young hockey players, you got stay focused and you got to stay disciplined, you got to sacrifice because there’s someone else out there that is doing that.”

Not only is that advice available for Ryan, but also for Rich’s son Garrett. Garrett led the Saskatchewan Midget AAA Hockey League in scoring with 87 points, eight more than anybody else in the league. Garrett signed with the Kamloops Blazers and according to Rich, has a roster spot with his name on it for next season.

jdandrea@panow.com

On Twitter: @jeff_dandrea