My gut is telling me they'll reach (IMO it's a reach) for Glass at 5. Hope it isn't true, would prefer any of Pettersson, Makar, Vilardi or Mittelstadt over Glass.
It really comes down to who they think will be the best player between ages 20 -32. Don't worry too much who makes it to the NHL the fastest of that group.
All of the centres above have the base skill set to be good 2C.
I think one of them is capable of being a 1C. But, it's no guarantee who that guy will be.
Pettersson - have to be patient with him as he works on gaining weight and strength. Only guys who come to mind that were are thin and lanky as him at the top of the draft are RNH and Turris. So, it takes time for someone 6'2 and 165 to get up into the mid 180's. My question about him is whether his game now shies away from the tough areas due to his lack of girth. But, when he gains that girth will be go into the tough areas or will he be comfortable on the outside if he is putting up points from there. Has the most pure talent of the remaining group of C.
Vilardi - probably the safest of the C's to play in the NHL. He just lacks the speed that the Canucks need long term. But, that shouldn't prevent them from taking him. His ability to be a 1C will likely depend on him improving his skating to add some speed/explosiveness. Don't expect him to turn into Larkin/McDavid in that area, but he'll have to get faster. His skating strength should lie in being strong on his skates and using his body to protect the puck and make plays.
Mittlestadt - I think he has really good upside. Not worried about him having to gain strength. U. of Minnesota will help him do that. Has the girth at 200 lbs, just needs to mold it into a NHL calibre body. Just a matter of gaging whether he has the work ethic to get stronger. Think his offensive skill upside is between Peterson and Vilardi. He has speed, which the Canucks need.
Glass - further along in his development than CM. Needs to get stronger and improve his explosiveness in his skating. Getting good coaching in Portland and has a sound 2 way game. Really comes down to how the draft shapes up.
If Dallas keeps the pick, then with them and Col ahead of Van, I expect Heiskanen and one of Vilardi/Mittlestadt to be taken. Doubt Peterson/Glass goes that high.
