Colorado's pick at No. 20 was more intriguing. Parker, 20, was a third-round pick of the New Jersey Devils two years ago but failed to agree to terms and was a re-entry selection this year.
Parker, 6-4, 220, had only three goals and seven points with 159 penalty minutes in 64 games for Kelowna of the WHL two years ago. Last season, he dramatically increased his numbers, recording 30 goals and 22 assists, with 243 penalty minutes, in 71 games.
"I think it has worked out for the best," Parker said. "It's unfortunate that we couldn't reach agreement with New Jersey."
Draper said Parker "has improved tremendously over the last season. It's not often you have maybe the toughest guy in the league score 30 goals. He's a great acquisition."
Asked if Parker might be able to play in the NHL next season, Lacroix said, "It's tough to make a decision like that. Let's give him a chance in training camp to prove what he can do."
Lacroix said he wasn't concerned about signing Parker. "What's in the past is in the past," he said.