Sportsnet’s 2018 NHL Draft Prospect Rankings: December
1. Rasmus Dahlin, D, 6-foot-2, 183 pounds (Frolunda, SHL): Nothing has changed in the eyes of scouts and the Olympics will likely prove that he’ll be ready to play in the NHL as early as next season.
2. Andrei Svechnikov, RW, 6-foot-2, 186 pounds (Barrie Colts, OHL): Despite missing more than 15 games, his stock hasn’t fallen. Early-season viewings have everyone on board. He approaches the game like a pro both on and off the ice.
3. Adam Boqvist, D, 5-foot-11, 170 pounds (Brynas Jr.): Not as well-rounded as Dahlin in terms of his two-way game, but the offensive side is right in the neighbourhood. Has a knack for gauging the urgency of a play and adapting his puck skills to execute that play.
4. Filip Zadina, RW, 6-foot, 196 pounds (Halifax Mooseheads, QMJHL): Has transitioned well to the North American game with an intense will to get into the home-plate area. There are no deficiencies in his game and he’s loaded with character. Zadina may not exactly be Nico Hischier, but he’s not too far behind.
5. Brady Tkachuk, LW, 6-foot-3, 196 pounds (Boston University, NCAA): It took the underage freshman 14 games to score his first collegiate goal. Having said that, look for him to trend upward in the points department. Regardless of offensive production however, he’s got size, grit and thoroughly enjoys being a net-front nuisance.
6. Noah Dobson, D, 6-foot-2, 180 pounds (Acadie-Bathurst Titan, QMJHL): No one player has opened more eyes since the start of the season. He’s experienced a meteoric rise up everyone’s list. Offensively, there is no limit to what he can do. The package includes size, skating and the ability to pace the game from the right side.
7. Oliver Wahlstrom, RW, 6-foot-1, 205 pounds (USNDTP): As a go-to for the US under-18 program, Wahlstrom has positioned himself as a shoot-first option. He has size and strength and when he’s on, his game has a pro-feel to it.
8. Quinn Hughes, D, 5-foot-9, 170 pounds (U of Michigan, NCAA): Hasn’t scored since Michigan’s season opener, but that hasn’t stopped him from shooting. Dishing hasn’t been an issue as he leads all Wolverines defencemen in assists. His greatest asset is his poise with the puck and world-class vision.
9. Rasmus Kupari, C, 6-foot-1, 183 pounds (Karpat, Finnish Liiga): Possesses a dynamic skill set. He gets around the ice well and can handle the puck at high speeds and while changing pace. Has shown strength and that is clearly evident in his shot. Making Finland’s world junior team would go a long way in determining his final draft ranking.
10. Jared McIsaac, D, 6-foot-1, 195 pounds (Halifax Mooseheads, QMJHL): Hard-nosed kid who has settled in after a slow start to the season. Has an acute ability to raise his level of play when the competition calls for it. He has a solid defensive foundation that puts him near the head of this D class.