NHL Entry Draft: Final big mock draft for 2019.

[newdimension]

Notes:
- Obviously, I'm not a scout, just a fan. It's a just for fun thing. I don't get to see every player, every game or anything like that. I do like to keep track of players, see who's rising, etc..
- My comparisons to other plays should be taken lightly. Obviously not everyone is going to on to become similar; or even make the league for the matter. To think so would be asinine.
- I'm also not 100% on needs for each team. But I'll try to do as best as possible. There's no trades in this draft, I'm going with what we're given so far.
- There'll be a final per team summary at the end for the "too long, didn't read" crowd. Oh, and I'm picking Boston to win the Cup. If it's St. Louis, just switch the last 2 picks per round.

-- Round 1 --

1. New Jersey: Jack Hughes, C/RW
Kakko's definitely made it close, but I think it'll be Hughes that goes first overall in the end. He's been touted as the next great American player forward and with the amount of hype he's generated these past few years, it'd be difficult for them to pass on. It'd give them much needed center depth, even if he's eased in as a winger at first.
Comparison: He's kind of a Mitch Marner type, mixed with Patrick Kane-like speed and shiftiness. He's the type that'll put up plenty of assists via his playmaking prowess, although still needing some work on his shooting skill.

2. New York Rangers: Kaapo Kakko, RW
The Devils choosing Hughes gives the Rangers the easiest choice of the draft. They run up the draft floor, grab Kakko and get ready for their next pick. At present time, he's probably better than Hughes, with Hughes only going first due to future upside. He can compete now, which the Rangers would love, knowing it expediates their rebuild.
Comparison: Rick Nash. He's a big, powerful winger that knows how to score, create offense and come up clutch in big moments.

3. Chicago: Alex Turcotte, C
Here's where the draft gets interesting.
I think it'll come down to Turcotte or Byram, with an outside shot of Zegras or Cozens. In the end, I think they could go with Turcotte for various reasons:
a) he's a local boy, which they love;
b) they could feel he's a potential future replacement for Toews;
c) they already have a bevy of defensemen coming up; and
d) they could feel his overall future upside is higher than Byram's.
Comparison: Patrice Bergeron. Two-way center that plays an all-out, smart, effective overall game. He can win draws, play against tough competition and has excellent speed.

4. Colorado [from Ottawa]: Bowen Byram, D
Maybe they trade the pick for a #2 center. Or maybe they keep the pick and straight up take Byram at this spot, allowing Sakic to make the easy play. It'd give them one of the best d-cores in a few years, with Byram on the left and Makar on the right. It could be an option for the future.
Comparison: Mark Giordano. I could see him becoming a steady top pairing defenseman that's able to play a speedy, all-around game, which allows him to put up points and defend well.

5. Los Angeles: Trevor Zegras, C/LW
There's a lot of hype and bluster over him rising. Usually, where there's smoke, there's fire. Maybe a team such as Los Angeles could take him, loving his pure offensive upside and playmaking ability. Whether it's as a center or a winger, after a year, he should be able to jump into the NHL.
Comparison: Mathew Barzal. Speedy, offensive, playmaking center with excellent skill and setup ability. His downside is still probably something like a Jonathan Drouin.

6. Detroit: Moritz Seider, D
It'd be a controversial pick for sure. I think Steve Yzerman is just the type of guy to take this risk, knowing that the Wings are drafting for the future. Seider seems to be rising up draft rankings, ala Jesperi Kotkaniemi last year, which could vault him into the top 10. Needing a potential top pairing defenseman, the Wings could draft him straight up here.
Comparison: At top end, he could be a Seth Jones type of defenseman. He's probably more like a Hampus Lindholm, a big, mobile defenseman that can move the puck well, shutdown the opposition and eat up plenty of minutes.

7. Buffalo: Matthew Boldy, LW
Jason Botterill has shown a major preference towards American players. He could grab Boldy, loving his all-around play and ability that he brings. Feeling he'd go great with the likes of Eichel and Mittelstadt, he would be quick to grab him off the board.
Comparison: Mark Stone is probably his overall upside, as long as everything goes great. He's a talented, two-way power winger that uses his hockey IQ to produce at both ends of the ice. There are some thoughts that he could even be a center, so maybe he's like a bigger Derek Stepan.

8. Edmonton: Philip Broberg, D
I think the lasting effect of the Blues' successful playoffs will be teams wanting to select big, mobile defenseman early. It wouldn't surprise me if Ken Holland's a huge fan of Broberg, as well. I know some Oilers fans may not like it, preferring to go forward... but they go for overall upside for the future.
Comparison: His pure top end is something like a John Carlson, just as long as he can figure out the offensive game. Otherwise, he's a Darnell Nurse type that skates incredibly fat, is raw and has lots of size and shutdown ability.

9. Anaheim: Kirby Dach, C
They come into the draft hoping one of the centers will fall into their lap and it could be Dach. They'd think it's a mini-miracle, as they need someone that'll replace Getzlaf and Kesler in the near future.
Comparison: Ryan Johansen. He's a pure playmaking, pass-first center with excellent height

10. Vancouver: Alex Newhook, LW/C
Despite measuring in a little shorter than expected at the combine, Newhook could be highly valuable to the Canucks. They're on record of wanting to add speed and he fits that to a tee. On top of that, he's been developing within the BCHL; which would make for a nice story with the draft being held in Vancouver this year.
Comparison: Kyle Connor.He's got the speed, the ability to rip the puck, play on a powerplay and can even be a playmaker.

11. Philadelphia: Dylan Cozens, C/RW
Coming into the draft, they don't expect to see Cozens there. However, I think his lack of hockey IQ might drop him somewhat down the board -- or at least out of the top 10. Either way, they'd happily run off with Cozens if he's still there. He's someone that could push Nolan Patrick and give them more depth down the middle; or even move him to wing if need be.
Cmparison: Mika Zibanejad. He can be a big power-center/winger that focuses on shooting a ton, brings a lot of speed and energy, and he can be physical, laying the body when it's necessary.

12. Minnesota: Peyton Krebs, C/LW
With news of a partial tear in his achilles, it may drop him down the board. Teams that like him within the top 10 may choose other choices, forcing him to drop. That said, at 12, the Wild could be all over him, loving his hustle, relentless play and calming two-way ability. They can take the risk with the injury, hoping it'll pay -off in the longterm.
Comparison: Brayden Schenn. He can be a warrior on the ice, playing a versatile, speedy game with good playmaking skill.

13. Florida: Vasili Podkolzin, RW
There are rumors aplenty of Sergei Bobrovsky going to Florida this off-season. They also drafted a fellow Russian faller last year, Grigori Denisenko. They have Evgenii Dadonov already on the roster. Florida could choose to make a home for several Russians, feeling he'd go well with guys such as Huderdeau or Barkov paired alongside him.
Comparison: Gabriel Landeskog. He's a do-it-all type of forward that actually doesn't play the noted "Russian way". He's a power forward that'll hit, block shots, be a leader and all of that to help win games.

14. Arizona: Cole Caufield, RW
His lack of size still might be a detriment to some teams, resulting in him dropping a little. In the meantime, all Caufield's done this year is score goals by the barrelfull. Needing snipers and having comfort with smaller players, the Coyotes grab him.
Comparison: The Alex Debrincat comparison is pretty apt. Like Debrincat, he's woefully undersized, standing only 5'7" and is also a serious goal-scoring threat.

15. Montreal: Thomas Harley, D
They showed last year that they love players with younger birthdates, feeling as if it gives them an extra year to develop them. Harley's one of the younger players in the draft, has excellent size and displays high mobility. They went to the OHL a few times last year during the draft; they could do the same this year, loving his overall upside. They have a hold n their left side of defense, which he would absolutely help patch.
Comparison: At top end, he could become a Shea Theodore-like defenseman. In other words, a big, mobile defenseman that knows how to create offense. His floor is probably something like Jake Gardiner, a defenseman that's offense-first, having some defensive lapses.

16. Colorado: Spencer Knight, G
All things must eventually end. The Hurricanes stayed away from Russians until Svechnikov popped up. Now, the Avalanche officially draft a goalie in the first round for the first time in decades, their need for a goalie outweighing everything else. Knight destroyed the NHL combine and has the size of a modern day starter, making him a guy with huge potential.
Comparison: John Gibson. He's a big, calm American goalie with elite starter potential that has the ability to come up big in important situations.

17. Vegas: Victor Soderstrom, D
The Golden Knights could take whomever they feel is the best player on the board. While he doesn't have the offensive skill that Erik Brannstrom has, he's another defender from Sweden that shows good two-way skill, making him a fine replacement for Brannstrom.
Comparison: Josh Morrissey. He's an all-around, solid defenseman. He's not a high-end type of offensive guy, more of a type that'll keep things smooth and calm, able to keep the puck in constant motion with his excellent skating. He could probably work a 2nd pairing on the powerplay, but he shouldn't be expected to be an offensively lethal type.

18. Dallas: Philip Tomasino, C/RW
They tend to draft heavily out of the OHL. Tomasino's been a riser, much like their selection of Dellandrea last year, they grab him before anyone else can. He's put up excellent 5-on-5 numbers and could be a riser come draft time. Whether he plays center or wing, he can bring more speed and offense to the Stars, which would be greatly appreciated.
Comparison: Robert Thomas. Ripe with speed, two-way smarts and playmaking skill, he's the type of forward that can be leaned on to provide both offense and all-around play.

19. Ottawa [from Columbus]: Cam York, D
The Sens love drafting out of the USDP and they could continue this trend. While they don't have a "need" for left-handed defensemen, he could be the best player left on the board for them, liking the talent he could bring on defense.
Comparison: Keith Yandle. He's a mobile, undersized defenseman that excels at a two-way game and is able to carry the puck on a powerplay to setup plays.

20. New York Rangers [from Winnipeg]: Pavel Dorofeyev, RW/LW
With Kakko on board they can take the risk by going for the talented Russian, Dorofeyev. Things have seemingly worked out well with Kravtsov, they hope they're getting another steal with the offensively-inclined Russian.
Comparison: Brock Boeser. Not a great skater, nor the biggest in size, he can work the boards and protect the puck well enough and unleash a venomous shot, which should help him produce in a top 6 role.

21. Pittsburgh: Arthur Kaliyev, LW
There's been plenty said about him all season long, with his lackadaisical play drawing much criticism. However, he also scored 50 goals and owns a sniper's shot. His underlying numbers look good, too; with the Pens thinking he'd be a great addition alongside either Crosby or Malkin.
Comparison: Thomas Vanek. He's a player that runs hot and cold; but when he's on, he can by a dynamic goal scorer with a lethal shot.

22. Los Angeles [from Toronto]: Ville Heinola, D
After grabbing Zegras earlier, they take a defenseman to go along with him. They have a love for Swedes and Finns and he seems like the type the Kings would love. The fact that he can play on either side of the ice would be an added bonus for them. His play at the U18 might drop him out of the top 20 -- but then again, all of Finland was a disaster, so it keeps him in the top 31.
Comparison: There's some Andrei Markov-like ability in him: a pure hockey IQ defender with sub-average skating skill. Maybe he settles in more as a Kevin Shattenkirk-type top 4 defenseman.

23. New York Islanders: Raphael Lavoie, LW/RW
The Isles love drafting out of the QMJHL. As such, they grab the big kid, Lavoie, who had an excellent playoff performance. Lamoriello could be high on him, loving his combination of size and skill.
Comparison: Anthony Mantha is probably something similar. He's a big, tall shooting winger that doesn't use his size as often as he should.

24. Nashville: Nils Hoglander, LW
He seems like the perfect type of Predators forward. After a good combine performance, it may get Hoglander higher on lists, with the Preds being a possible destination, especially if they love his hard-working play.
Comparison: Kyle Palmieri. Not a huge kid, he's super speedy, with excellent hands and has the potential to put up offense.

25. Washington: Yegor Afanasyev, LW/C
They've been known to shoot for the fences on Russians before. They could return to those roots, loving his mixture of size and pure shooting ability, often taking whomever is the highest on their list.
Comparison: James van Riemsdyk. He's a little one-dimension in his style of play, in that he likes to shoot... a lot. He's a big goal scorer whose skating is less refined than the rest of his game, but he's got a lot of upside.

26. Calgary: Bobby Brink, RW
The fact that he measured in smaller at the combine than originally thought could have him falling. For now, I'll have the Flames taking him due to the fact that he has many connections to their organization. They love American players and they have his own linemate, Martin Pospisil, already in the pipeline, it might make a decent matchup.
Comparison: Viktor Arvidsson. He's a diminuitive player, whose skating is a little lacking, but he profiles as an incredibly smart forward that'll cut you up with his hockey IQ and ability to provide offense.

27. Tampa Bay: Ryan Suzuki, C
The Bolts are known to go skill first with their first round selections. Suzuki's dropped a little, but he's still a first round candidate player. There'll probably be a time where they'll have to trade away some forwards, so they'll need players that can step in and contribute.
Comparison: Mike Ribiero. He's a pure playmaking center with good hockey smarts and puck skill that can get pushed around and has bouts of inconsistency.

28. Carolina: b] Connor McMichael, C
The London Knights have a good history of producing NHL players. In this instance, the 'Canes go there to take McMichael, boosting up their center depth. He's a little undersized, but has plenty of talent, able to contribute whether he's a center or a winger.
Comparison: Jake Guentzel. He's a speedy, offensive forward with good puck smarts, who is able to score and put up plenty of points and offensive ability.

29. Anaheim [from fs]: Ryan Johnson, D
After taking big center, Dylan Cozens, with their first pick, they could snag speedy, two-way defenseman, Ryan Johnson with their 2nd first rounder. He's a local California kid and was also a hot commodity at the draft combine. He could be a candidate to go in the first round.
Comparison: Marc-Edouard Vlasic or a younger Dan Hamhuis. He's a speedy, defense-first defenseman that uses his speed and good smarts to shutdown competition and erase opposing offenses. There may be some unheralded offensive upside if he's given some powerplay time, too.

30. Buffalo [from St. Louis]: John Beecher, C/LW
Once again, the Sabres draft from the USDP. I could see them loving Beecher. He's a warrior on the ice, doing everything he can do to help his team to win. He's exactly the type of player the Sabres need in their system, wanting to build a different culture where they just accept losing.
Comparison: At top end, he can be like a David Backes or Ryan Kesler type, especially if his offense can develop. Otherwise, maybe he's an Austin Watson type of power forward that does a little of everything.

31. Boston: Jackson Lacombe, D
I've got a feeling he might sneak into the first round. After being converted from being a forward, he's looked dynamic on defense and has shown excellent offensive ability, all thanks to his speed. The Bruins love their American players.
Comparison: Devon Toews. He's an ultra-mobile, offensive defenseman that can score. The team that drafts him will hope he can bring this offensive skill to their blueline.


-- Round 2 --

32. Ottawa: Samuel Poulin, LW
To start the first round, the Sens go to the QMJHL, which they love drafting from, taking the power forward, Sam Poulin. He'd give them some more depth upfront and they tend to like their players with some size.
Comparison: Wayne Simmonds. He's a point producing power forward with some jam in his game, allowing him to go into the hard areas to score.

33. Los Angeles: Nicholas Robertson, LW
The Kings draft a smaller, crafty forward from the OHL. His brother was drafted by Dallas and is 6'2", so they hope he can grow in size. The fact he's a late birthday is a bonus, feeling he can still grow a few inches in size.
Comparison: Jonathan Marchessault. He's a buzzing, offensive winger that can distribute as well as score.

34. New Jersey: Lassi Thomson, D
With abundant talent on the left side of defense, they need to focus on their right side. Thomson is fresh off honing his skills in Kelowna and will be going back to Finland to work some more. He can bring a lot of offense from the blueline.
Comparison: Vince Dunn. He's the prototypical modern day defenseman that plays with plenty of puck movement, can blast shots from the point and can be a little chaotic in his own zone.

35. Detroit: Jamieson Rees, C
He seems like the type of player that Steve Yzerman and company could really love. If he's still there at #35, they'd grab him and run, loving the pure upside he can bring.
Comparison: Max Domi. He's an undersized and shifty forward with good ability. He can sometimes go a little overboard, resulting in suspensions or injury for himself and others as he plays with a lot of tenacity.

36. Carolina [from Buffalo]: Patrik Puistola, LW
Carolina's a team that loves drafting Finns. They keep on this pattern, drafting Puistola, who's a skilled and responsible goal scorer, liking what he could bring to a top 6.
Comparison: Jake Debrusk. He's a goal scorer with good hands and vision. If he had better skating, he'd probably be a first rounder.

37. Carolina [from New York Rangers]: Brett Leason, RW
They're at a junction where they're soon to be yearly contenders. They may want to take a risk on Leason, who is a double-overager. Liking the addition of size and skill he could bring, they probably looked at his domination in the first half of the season and something that'd look good in their lineup.
Comparison: Alex Tuch. As a double-overaged power forward, he's likely to become a middle 6, versatile threat sooner rather than later.

38. Edmonton: Brayden Tracey, LW
After grabbing a defenseman in the first round, they take a forward that helps with their scoring. He's coming off a rookie year in which he put excellent numbers and is fresh off a U18 tournament that pushes him up the board, making him a viable candidate for the Oilers.
Comparison: Jordan Eberle. He's a quick-strike type of winger that positions himself well in the offensive zone, allowing him to score. His one detriment is that he can be a little bit of a perimeter player sometimes and it keeps him from going higher.

39. Anaheim: Tobias Bjornfot, D
While they'd probably prefer a right-shooting defenseman, they won't be able to pass on Bjornfot if he's still on the board. They love Swedes/Swedish defenseman, so it'd make an excellent combination for the two sides.
Comparison: Matt Niskanen. He's a non-risky, mobile defenseman that moves puck alog with ease, can play in various situations and play in multiple roles.

40. Vancouver: Matthew Robertson, D
I could see him slipping a little due to fears of overall upside. To me, I think he has the potential to be a very good middle pairing, stabilizing guy. He had concussion injuries that may have affected his output in the second half; but with a renewed year, he could really hit his stride and explode statistically.
Comparison: Mattias Ekholm. He's a big defender that keeps things calm and simple. He also owns a booming shot from the point that can aide in offense.

41. Philadelphia: Jayden Struble, D
After completely dominating the combine, I could see him being a fast riser up the board. The Flyers drafted Jay O'Brien out of high school last year. They could take Struble this year, hoping to hit a homerun.
Comparison: If he can ever develop his pure offense, he could be a booming Justin Faulk type that owns a hard shot, excellent speed and plenty of physicality. Otherwise, maybe he turns into a Jack Johnson type of defender.

42. Minnesota: Jakob Pelletier, LW
If he slips down the draft board, I could see a team such as Minnesota taking a chance on him here. He can act like a sparkplug o the ice, with his speed and size really being the only thing that holds him back.
Comparison: Travis Konecny. He's a smaller sparkplug type of winger that can fit into any role, add some playmaking skill and can add energy.

43. Chicago: Vladislav Kolyachonok, D
Surprised to see him still here, the Hawks would definitely scoop him off the board. It gives them another projectable defenseman that could battle for a future role. The speedy Belarussian defenseman could be a type that goes well with an Adam Boqvist type.
Comparison: Jaccob Slavin. He's a 6'2" defenseman with excellent speed and two-way ability and smarts. He could vie for a top 4 role in the future.

44. Ottawa [from Florida]: Kaedan Korczak, D
Drafting for need, they grab a big right handed defenseman. They think he could be a good partner for someone such as Erik Brannstrom, who could play the mobile, offensive game, while Korczak plays a stay-at-home style. He comes from the Kelowna school of defense, which has a good history of producing solid d-men.
Comparison: Scott Mayfield. He's a huge defenseman with some feistiness and good skating ability that'll allow him to take care of his own zone.

45. Arizona: Nolan Foote, LW
Loving bloodlines, they draft the son of Adam Foote. He'd give them size on their wing, loving the potential goal scoring he could bring. He apparently was playing with an injured wrist this year that hampered his play. If he gets healthy next year, he could have a breakout season, as long as he works on his skating.
Comparison: At top end, I think he could be an Anders Lee type of big, goal scoring winger. Maybe he's more of a Brett Connolly type, though, in which he's mainly a bottom 6 type of forward that also has some goal scoring skill. The main thing holding him back is his lack of foot speed.

46. Montreal: Samuel Fagemo, RW
Montreal's been more proactive in drafting Swedes these past few years. After being passed over the previous year, there's no way it happens again, as Montreal could love his breakout play this season, along with his goal scoring ability.
Comparison: Mike Hoffman. He's an industrious goal scoring forward that can play up and down a top 9.

47. Colorado: Nikita Alexandrov, C/LW
They grab a hard-working center, giving them depth down the middle. He's the type of player that'll do a little of everything and has some the ability to put the puck in the net. If anything, he could make it as a decent depth forward.
Comparison: Ivan Barbashev. Works hard as a two-way forward that forechecks hard, can score goals and brings energy onto the ice.

48. Vegas: Simon Holmstrom, RW
They took whom they feel is the best player left on the board. Holmstrom was a first rounder going into the season, falling due to injuries. Thankfully, when he return, he showed excellent prowess and offensive ability, especially atthe U18 tournament, where he helped Sweden win gold.
Comparison: Justin Williams. He can play like a horse on the ice, with good speed, skill and clutch play.

49. New York Rangers [from Dallas]: Albin Grewe, RW
The Rangers love their Swedes and they could also love how he can be a shift-disturber on the ice. He hits, plays offensively and does a little of everything, going full tilt when he's on the ice.
Comparison: Patric Hornqvist. He's an industrious, hard-working, physical winger that can produce offense almost as well as he hits. The only problem is he can go overboard sometimes.

50. Montreal [from Columbus]: Daniil Misyul, D
Going for another European defenseman, the Habs take Misyul, who looked really good in the KHL playoffs. After taking Romanov last year, and now with Harley and Misyul, their left side of defense is well-stocked with some sizeable puck movers.
Comparison: Damon Severson. He's a big-minute defenseman that skates well and can do a little bit of everything, including clearing the crease, moving the puck and playing a possession game.

51. Winnipeg: Antti Tuomisto, D
They're known for their love of drafting Finns. Tuomisto is almost 6'4" and plays a solid two-way game. He's got the ability to put offense on the board, as well as some physicality to defend well. He's raw, but there's plenty of upside.
Comparison: Adam Pelech. An all-around defenseman that can complement offensive defensemen. There's some inconsistencies in his game, but he'll be a fun kid to track.

52. Florida [from Pittsburgh]: Ilya Nikolayev, C
If the Panthers take Podkolzin in the first round, they could also grab Nikolayev, who has shown good chemistry when playing with him. They need some center depth, making him a good match.
Comparison: Tyler Bozak. He's likely a depth center with some skill that's able to play in a defensive role.

53. Toronto: Mads Sogaard, G
He'd join fellow Dane, Frederik Andersen, with the Leafs organization. They figure Andersen can take Sogaard under his wing and let him develop as their future starter.
Comparison: Ben Bishop. Standing 6'7", he's a legit giant on the ice. As a result, his size covers plenty of the net, which allows him to stop pucks with ease. He's also a reliable puck mover, keeping things in transition.

54. Detroit [from New York Islanders]: Artemi Kniazev, D
Yzerman has a liking and trust of Russians. In relation to this, they grab Kniazev, who's an offensive, puck-rusher playing in the QMJHL. They've gone there before for talent, returning there for some more defensive depth.
Comparison: Nick Leddy. He's a mobile, offensive puck-moving defenseman that can be expected to put offense on the board.

55. New Jersey [from Nashville]: Marshall Warren, D
Warren's had a history of playing in the Jersey area. It might be an intriguing pick taking a guy with some local flare. He's not the biggest guy, but he keeps their blueline well-stocked.
Comparison: Alex Goligoski. He's a speedy, mobile defenseman that eats up minutes, can keep the puck in play and brings solid two-way play.

56. Washington: Robert Mastrosimone, LW
They'd be through the roof to see him still on the board. He's a complete sniper with plenty of talent in his game. After coming up big in the playoffs, they'd take him and run.
Comparison: Mike Cammalleri. He's a goal scoring winger with the ability to come up clutch in important situations.

57. New York Islanders [from Calgary]: Maxim Cajkovic, LW/RW
Going for the best player available, the Isles could grab Cajkovic, who's had a rough season only because he's been playing on some weak teams. Luckily, they hope to save him from despair and try to get him into a decent, working system in order to develop him bursting offensive talent.
Comparison: Ondrej Kase. He's a goal scoring winger that has offensive skills and good hands.

58. New York Rangers [from Tampa Bay]: Vladislav Firstov, LW
The Rangers pickup Firstov, adding some depth to their left wing. He's an offensive winger that can come down off the wing and use his excellent writer to produce offense.
Comparison: Jakub Vrana. An offensive, goal-scoring winger that likes to create offense.

59. Carolina: Alex Vlasic, D
Realistically, I think there's a real good chance that Vlasic's off the board earlier, especially if a team loves his size. Luckily, the Hurricanes are a team that loves both size and American defenders, taking their shot with him. It seems like a good fit, especially after they see how good Brandon Carlo, a similarily sized defender, has been performing in these playoffs.
Comparison: He's sort of a cross of Tyler Myers and Brandon Carlo. Not quite as speedy and offensive as Myers, yet not as much of a defensive specialist as Carlo. He's a guy that'll do a lot of small things well, yet not be a total standout.

60. Detroit [from San Jose]: Pyotr Kochetkov, G
The Wings need goalie prospects. Kochetkov would be one of the best on the board. He's an overager that looked great at the World Juniors and all throughout the season. There's clear upside, with Steve Yzerman taking another Russian.
Comparison: Frederik Andersen. He's a big goalie that knows how to use his size and quickness to stop pucks.

61. St. Louis: Drew Helleson, D
Seeing how well they've done big, mobile defensemen in these playoffs, the Blues keep the trend and take Helleson. He's a positionally sound defenseman that skates well and has some upside.
Comparison: Marcus Pettersson. He's likely a shutdown defenseman with decent skating ability and mobility that uses his positioning to box out forwards.

62. New Jersey [from Boston]: Shane Pinto, RW
Grabbing a guy that's close enough to be almost be considered a local, they take a scoring forward that plays a power game. He could be the type that'd help insulate some of their smaller forwards, while also putting plenty of shots on net.
Comparison: Christian Fischer. He needs to work on his speed, but he's the type that can work the boards, shoot the puck and bring size to a team.


-- Round 3 --

63. Colorado [from Ottawa]: Harrison Blaisdell, LW
Going to the BCHL, much like their choice of Tyson Jost, they grab Blaisdell, who could become a feisty goal scoring winger. He'll be going to an American college, which they'd love. It gives them a potential goal scoring on the left side.
Comparison: Jason Zucker. He's a depth scoring winger that should add some offense in a depth role, having good speed and the will to go to the front of the net to score.

64. Los Angeles: Adam Beckman, LW/C
Beckman is a teammate of current Kings prospect, Jarret Anderson-Dolan, making him appealing to the Kings. He's one of the more underrated players in the top 70. He can forecheck hard, dig out pucks, score and could develop into a very useful depth scoring forward for the club.
Comparison: Mathieu Joseph. He has good speed, agility and talent, which should allow him to become a depth offensive weapon.

65. Philadelphia [from New Jersey]: Nathan Legare, RW
If his skating were better, he'd be a top 45 candidate. With the QMJHL often getting overlooked, I think there's a chance that he might slip into the third. The Flyers would be greatful to get him here, feeling they've got an excellent shooter with power winger tendencies.
Comparison: At top end, he can be a Brandon Saad type. Otherwise, maybe he's a Michael Ferland type of player that can shoot the puck a lot, score and play a boisterously physical game.

66. Detroit: Karl Henriksson, C/LW
He seems like the type of forward that the Wings could love. He's a pure playmaking center that gets by on his high hockey IQ. With their staff watching closely to the U18, they certainly saw him help Sweden to a gold medal performance. It'd be similar to their drafting of Jonatan Berggren last season.
Comparison: Jesper Bratt. He's a smaller forward with great playmaking and passing skill.

67. Buffalo: Ryder Donovan, RW/C
Coming straight out of high school, it might keep him out of the top 62. His combination of size, speed and playmaking ability is tantalizing, with the Sabres liking his potential.
Comparison: At top end, he's a Kevin Hayes type of big American forward. If he can't find an offensive touch at a pro level, he could become a Boo Nieves type that's fast on pucks and uses his size to compete.

68. New York Rangers: Anttoni Honka, D
It's another Finn to go with Kakko and Tarmo Reunanen. This time, it's the falling, right shot defenseman, Honka. He's a high-righ/high-reward type of pick... with his defensive short-comings resulting in his big drop. In the third round, at this location, it's great value.
Comparison: Oliver Kylington. Kylington was a faller in his draft year, similar to the same reasons as Honka, who's an offensive defenseman with plenty of upside... just as long as he can cutdown on the defensive deficiencies. Maybe Julius Honka, his older brother, is another possible comparable.

69. Florida [from Edmonton]: Samuel Bolduc, D
Needing depth on defense, they take Bolduc, giving them a huge, mobile, physical specimen. He's a little raw, but the Panthers love big guys; and if he keeps growing, he could be a force on the blueline.
Comparison: Phillippe Myers. He's a huge, mobile defenseman that can drop opponents with big hits and has a booming shot from the point. There's loads of upside just waiting to come out... just as long as he's coached right.

70. New Jersey [from Anaheim]: Hugo Alnefelt, G
Needing goaltending depth, the Devils grab Alnefelet, who is fresh off helping Sweden win gold at the U18 tournament. He's got good size and profiles as a future starter.
Comparison: Connor Hellebuyck. He's a goalie with projectable size, skill and technical form.

71. Vancouver: Simon Lundmark, D
Needing a more right shooting defense, they go to Sweden and take Lundmark, who's a good projectable defenseman. While he didn't breakthrough in the SHL, it was in the SuperElit where he put up an excellent point total.
Comparison: Colin Miller. He's good on the transition, keeping things safe and mobile. He could challenge for a bottom 4 defenseman role with his good transition ability.

72. Philadelphia: Ronnie Attard, D
Going for an overaged right-shooting defender, the Flyers hope they've got another Gostisbehere situation on their hands. His offense burst through this year, with the big defenseman putting up monstrous numbers.
Comparison: At top end, if he ever figures out his skating and overall play, he could be a Jeff Petry type. Otherwise, maybe he's a Cody Franson type that has defensive lapses, with some poor skating.

73. Minnesota: Mikko Kokkonen, D
Often going for overseas defenders, they grab the falling Kokkonen, hoping to increase depth on their blueline. They'll hope to lockdown their defense for the future, even thinking they could have a steal.
Comparison: Olli Maatta... maybe a smaller version of Maatta. He's not a fast kid, nor is he a high-impact offensive producer. He's more likely to become a two-way guy that tries to keep everything simple.

74. Arizona [from Chicago]: Blake Murray, C
In general, the Coyotes often draft from the OHL. They could take Murray, a late birthday, who has excellent speed and some upside. Things didn't go as planned for him this past season, and he'll hope to move past that by improving his play.
Comparison: At top end, he could be an Andreas Athanasiou type that uses his speed and size to storm to the net and score goals. Otherwise, if his offense can't translate, maybe he becomes a depth center ala Oskar Sundqvist, who has plenty of size and speed.

75. Nashville [from Florida]: Michal Teply, LW
Along with his lackluster skating, his disappointing U18 tournament might get him dropping into the 3rd round. For the third round, he'd make a nice pickup for the Predators, who'll no doubt be on the lookout for an increase in their offense.
Comparison: Joel Armia. He's not a speed burner. Instead, he's a sizeable winger that works well in the corners and knows how to use his hands to score goals and snipe the puck.

76. Arizona: Jordan Spence, D
He's a guy that's certainly capable of being drafted in the 2nd round. They need some right handed defenseman. Despite his size, he'd make another good addition to their
Comparison: Samuel Girard. He's an incredibly mobile, smart offensive defenseman that's lacking in size, making up for it with his skating.

77. Montreal: Alexander Campbell, LW
Had a decent showing at the combine, interviewed with Montreal and is a hometown guy. He and Alex Newhook completely dominated the BCHL last season and he'll be going to university in America next year, which is something Montreal likes to see in their prospects.
Comparison: At top end, he's Gustav Nyquist type that's a slick, scoring winger with good offensive ability.

78. Colorado: Yegor Spiridonov, C
They've got a history of drafting Russian talent. Fears of his overall offensive upside might drop him into the 3rd round, with the Avs happily taking him here.
Comparison: Artem Anisimov. Questions surround his overall offensive upside, but he's likely to become a tall center that works hard at shutting down opposition and can work a penalty kill like a madman.

79. Vegas: John Farinacci, C
The Golden Knights grab whomever they feel is the best on the board. He's a longterm project that could potentially battle for a middle 6 role down the middle.
Comparison: Chris Tierney. He's a smart, speedy center with decent playmaking skill that'll be going to Harvard next year.

80. New Jersey [from Dallas]: Ethan Keppen, LW
They tend to draft a lot from the OHL. As such, they take the power winger, Keppen, who could go anywhere from #50-90. He brings a pure power forward game to the ice, with the Devils loving the idea of insulating their skilled forwards with power guys.
Comparison: Joshua Anderson. With enough time and proper development, Keppen could become the next prototypical power forward in the NHL. It all depends on his development, of course.

81. Columbus: Alex Beaucage, RW/LW
His skating leaves a lot to be desired, resulting in him falling down the board a little. Nonetheless, the Blue Jackets, who have few picks in the draft, look to hit a homerun. Going for upside, they take Beaucage, whom they hope can become an offensive forward in the future.
Comparison: Jakob Silfverberg -- a similarly "slower" forward that boasts slower skating strides, but who also has a penchant for scoring and sniping the puck.

82. Vegas [from Winnipeg]: Semyon Chistyakov, D
Again, they go the BPA route, taking Chistyakov, who's a Russian that looked great throughout the year, especially at tournaments. He could even be a 2nd rounder if a team likes him enough.
Comparison: Dmitry Orlov. He's a defenseman that stands only 5'10", but makes up for it by hammering opponents with physicality, while owning some good offense as well.

83. Ottawa [from Pittsburgh]: Billy Constantinou, D
He falls into their laps, with the Sens liking his offensive upside. At this slot, they'll no doubt be hoping for a steal. As an added bonus, he plays on the right side, insuring their depth there as well.
Comparison: Josh Mahura. He's an offensive defenseman that can put up an impressive point total. For the Sens, they'll hope he can transfer that type of play to the pros.

84. Toronto: Kalle Loponen, D
Looking for a talented right-shooting defenseman, they go and grab Loponen, who's not a huge guy, but has a lot of skill. He seems like the type of low key pick Dubas would like, loving the puck carrying skill he could bring.
Comparison: Michal Kempny. Probably not a "stud" defenseman, but a guy that keeps things in motion, can play powerplays, has a good shot, etc..

85. Edmonton [from New York Islanders]: Graeme Clarke, RW
The Oilers return to the OHL to take Clarke, who's got excellent goal scoring potential in his game. He's coming off a solid playoff run, making him the best player available at this spot.
Comparison: Tyler Toffoli. Not a huge kid and also not a fast kid, he's a guy that can beat you with his hands and pure goal scoring ability.

86. Vegas [from Nashville]: Matias Maccelli, LW
With the points he put up in the USHL this past year, they could feel he's the best player available. He'll be back in Finland next year, where he hopes to continue his offensive success.
Comparison: Nikolay Goldobin. He's a boom-or-bust type of offense-first winger that put up excellent numbers in the USHL this past season.

87. Los Angeles [from Washington]: Martin Hugo Has, D
They take a big, right-handed Czech defenseman, whose size and skating make a nice combination. He could have some upside as a pro.
Comparison: Erik Cernak. He has a heavy point shot, skates well and fits the profile of a future shutdown defenseman.

88. Calgary: Marcus Kallionkieli, LW
With both Bobby Brink and Martin Pospisil, they reunite the teammates from Sioux City. He's a shoot-first winger, which can also be his drawback as teams can learn to shut him down. In the third round, it's a respectable gamble, especially if that entire line with Brink can get going.
Comparison: Craig Smith. He's a shoot-first winger with good size and energy.

89. Tampa Bay: Aliaksei Protas, LW/RW
The Bolts go for size, wanting to add more of it to their lineup. Protas has a breakthrough in the WHL playoffs, putting on a good performance for Prince Albert. Size will get you everywhere, especially in the draft.
Comparison: Jordan Greenway is probably his pure top end. Basically, a huge winger with some skill that'll get by on the basis of his size.

90. Carolina: Isaiah Saville, G
Alex Nedeljokoic is seemingly ooming along good in goal. They may want to grab another goaktender to increase their depth in the crease and keep the heat of Nedeljokovic to keep producing. They've always been known to draft a goaltender or two.
Comparison: Semyon Varlamov. He's an athletic, incredibly mobile goaltender with a good frame and quick glove hand.

91. San Jose: Tuukka Tieksola, RW
The Sharks love drafting Europeans, especially those with skill. They'll hope he can put everything together, work on his defensive game and bring his playmaking skill to the next level. His upside is immense, especially if everything comes together.
Comparison: Kevin Labanc. He's an offensively gifted pure playmaker that can setup goal scorers, putting up a high assists total.

92. St. Louis: Michael Vukojevic, D
The Blues grab a tall, mobile shutdown defender, keeping on the path of increasing their blueline depth. He's the type of player that they've been winning with in the playoffs, making him a possible option.
Comparison: Joel Edmundsson. Keeps it simple, using his size and skating to rub out forwards and has decent puck moving skill.

93. Boston: Patrick Moynihan, RW/C
Named as one of the most underrated players by his own teammates, he's a Massachusetts kid that goes home to the Bruins. He seems like the type of hard-working, all-around forward that usually aim for in the middle rounds.
Comparison: Bryan Rust. He's a high motor, energetic player that has an excellent ability to unleash an accurate shot and can do a little of everything.


-- Round 4 --

94. Ottawa: Judd Caulfield, RW
Returning to the US developmental systems, they grab the big power forward. He might have some pro potential, even if he's simple a bottom line forward.
Comparison: Marcus Foligno. Plays big on the ice, has shown some offense at times, too. Worthy of a mid-round pick.

95. Los Angeles: Hunter Jones, G
In the 4th round, I could see goalies beginning to drop like flies. The Kings could take Jones, wanting to keep depth in their crease for the future, hoping he can develop into something useful.
Comparison: Mackenzie Blackwood. He's a big goalie, standing ~6'4". He can run hot and cold at times, which results in him dropping.

96. New Jersey: Ethan Phillips, LW/RW
New Jersey grabs Phillips, who is an undersized but swift forward that plays with a ton of fire in his belly. They're a team that loves to draft speed and he fits that criteria like a glove.
Comparison: Andrew Cogliano. Speedy, undersized forward that uses his skating ability to create havoc on the ice.

97. Detroit: Albert Johansson, D
The Wings grab another defenseman, hoping to walk out with more depth. He's another hyper mobile, offensive type that'll increase the depth on their blueline.
Comparison: Neal Pionk. He's an offensive defenseman that makes smart, swift decisions with the puck and can put points on the board.

98. Pittsburgh [from Buffalo]: Colten Ellis, G
While they have some guys currently in net, they need some goalies for their future pipeline. They've used the QMJHL to drafr from before, they could go there again. On top of that, I wouldn't be surprised if a lot of other goalies started going off the board in the 4th round.
Comparison: Corey Crawford. He's a technically sound goaltender that gets the job done, putting up good numbers in the process.

99. Minnesota [from New York Rangers]: Benjamin Brinkman, D
Drafting a high school forward from Minnesota seems like an easy choice to make. They're a team that likes to build up a strong defense. They can give him the developmental time.
Comparison: David Savard. One of the younger kids playing in his league, he can move really well and owns solid two-way play.

100. Edmonton: Matvei Guskov, LW/C
They have a history of taking Russians developing within the OHL. They've got some good guys in that mould developing quite well so far, ie: Maksimov, Samorukov; they may want to keep on that train.
Comparison: Mikkel Boedker. He might develop into a depth scoring winger that has excellent skating and speed.

101. Anaheim: Ryan Siedem, D
In need of some right-handed shooter, the Ducks takes Siedem, who has decent size and puts up pretty good analytics. He could be worthy of a shot if a team really wants more defensive depth.
Comparison: Ben Hutton. He's got good size, which he uses to move up the ice. Still needs to work on his skating, but there are plenty of positive qualities about him, including his ability to chip in on offense.

102. Vancouver: Dillon Hamaliuk, LW
He put up excellent numbers for the first half of the season... until he got injured, which kept him out for the rest of the year. Standing 6'3", he's a big power forward with the Canucks would be quite keen on adding. He'll be playing in Kelowna next season, which should help him grow his game.
Comparison: Jim Vesey. He's a large, physical specimen that's a little slow in his skating, but can lay the body and accumulate some points.

103. Philadelphia: John Malone, RW
He plays for the Youngstown Phantoms and that's a great way to get noticed by the Flyers. He could potentially give them some solid depth scoring at the pro level, as long as he can make it.
Comparison: Danton Heinen. He's likely a depth scorer, who can also play with some grit.

104. Florida [from Minnesota]: Samuel Hlavaj, G
They're not a team that drafts a lot of goaltenders. When they do, it's usually guys that are projects that have some upside. Hlavaj's been playing on a poor team, which effects his numbers. Owning several 4th rounders, they can take a crack at him here.
Comparison: Matt Murray. Like Murray, he put up poor numbers in his draft year, but still showed upside and had good size. Worthy of a middle round pick.

105. Chicago: Valentin Nussbaumer, C/LW
Last year, the Hawks took fellow Swiss forward, Phillip Kurashev in the fourth round. They could do the same and grab Nussbaumer this year, partnering him with Kurashev.
Comparison: Sven Baertschi. He's a thin Swiss forward with good vision and hands that'll allow him to put up points in a depth role.

106. Florida: Henry Thrun, D
Another defenseman goes off the board, with the Panthers making sure to maintain depth on their blueline. He's a safe, solid guy with decent size and two-way ability.
Comparison: Brett Kulak. He's a simple, solid, all-around defender that does the small things to help teams win.

107. Arizona: Dustin Wolf, G
Teams pass on him due to his lack of size, resulting in him dropping into the 4th. However, the Coyotes could end that slide, hoping he can converts his excellent junior numbers into a starter's role.
Comparison: Jordan Binnington. He's another small, yet quick, goalie that's put up amazing numbers, yet gets passed on because of size.

108. Montreal: Henri Nikkanen, C
Going into the year, some places had him as a potential first round candidate. Unfortunately, injuries wrecked his season and he had a bad season. The Habs love their Finnish projects and will hope he can bounce back next season, thinking he adds good size, speed and some skill to their forward core.
Comparison: Roope Hintz. He's a speedy Finn with good size and some playmaking skill.

109. Nashville [from Colorado]: Rhett Pitlick, LW
They have his brother, Rem, already on board. They reunite the brothers, hoping they can push each other to succeed.
Comparison: Andrew Mangiapane. He can scorch you with his pure, blazig speed, along with his excellent stickhandling that was taught to him.

110. Vegas [from Minnesota]: Trent Miner, G
The Golden Knights would like to add some depth to their crease. For a while, he was developing within the Brandon Wheat Kings, whom their assistant GM knows quite well. There could be a match made here.
Comparison: Brian Elliott. He's a flexible, athletic goalie that has some upside and agility. Not the biggest of the bunch... but holds some potential.

111. Dallas: Case McCarthy, D
The Stars need some depth on the right side of defense. McCarthy could become a depth guy with size, puck movement ability and some physicality.
Comparison: Stephen Johns. He's a physical and mobile defenseman that helps keep the puck in transition, while able to work hard on a penalty kill.

112. New York Rangers [from Columbus]: Domenick Fensore, D
He's a New York native, which means they're more likely to put faith in him. Woefully undersized, standing only 5'7", he has plenty of offensive upside, with the Rangers willing to take the risk, thanks to their deluge of draft picks. There are rumors of him being taken before the 5th round, so that prediction comes true.
Comparison: Torrey Krug. His skating is elite-level and he knows how to provide offense and move the puck. The only thing really holding him back is his lack of size.

113. Winnipeg: Zac Jones, D
The Jets love drafting Americans. The only thing keeping him from going higher is his lack of height, as he stands only 5'10". At this range, he'd be a high value pick, as he has plenty of offensive skill.
Comparison: Ty Barrie. Not a huge defender, he's a guy, much like Ty Barrie who also went a mid-round pick, that'll provide offensive skill from the backend.

114. Florida [from Pittsburgh]: Leevi Aaltonen, LW
Once more, the Panthers grab a Finn, loving what they've brought to the team. Even though he's a long-term guy that didn't have the successful season he thought he'd have, he'd still make a perfect mid-round draft choice.
Comparison: Mathieu Perreault. He's an undersized, all-out winger with blazing speed and potential offensive ability.

115. Toronto: Mattias Norlinder, D
The Leafs love drafting Swedes. Norlinder's an overager that had a breakout year in terms of offense. He'd be a good value pick here in the fourth for them, wanting to keep that blueline well-stocked.
Comparison: Brandon Montour. He's an offensive defenseman that's good in transition. He's likely a depth offensive defenseman at the pro level.

116. New York Islanders: Aaron Huglen, LW
The Isles have taken a few Americans in mid-rounds before. Huglen is remembered as the guy that scored a lacrosse-style goal against Canada a while back, so he certainly has plenty of skill and good hands. He was even a Mr. Hockey nominee thanks to his highlight reel style of playing.
Comparison: Jason Pominville. I'm not sure if he'll ever have the career Pominville's had, but they're both averaged size players with excellent hands and creativity that know how to score.

117. Nashville: Mike Koster, D
There's a history of them using mid-round picks on offensively gifted American defensemen. Koster fits that mould, giving them someone to work a powerplay for the future.
Comparison: Will Butcher. He's a smaller, offense-first defenseman that uses speed and skill to produce.

118. Washington: Layton Ahac, D
They grab a BCHL defenseman that'll be developing in an American collegiate system. It seems like a good recipe for Capitals defense
Comparison: Justin Braun. He's a sizeable defender with pretty good speed and plays a shutdown type of game.

119. Los Angeles [from Calgary]: Sasha Mutala, RW
He seems like the type of player the Kings would like in the mid rounds. Likely plays as a depth forward at an NHL level, even if he doesn't have huge upside.
Comparison: Zach Hyman. A speedy, hard-working type that'll go to the difficult areas, play a leadership role, make hits and be a crowd and coach's favorite.

120. Tampa Bay: Justin Bergeron, D
He's one of the younger overagers in the draft, missing last year's cut off by a day. He had a breakthrough season this past year, with the Lightning liking what they saw. They tend to like QMJHL players, and he could be high on their list.
Comparison: Justin Schultz. He's a gambling offensive defenseman that likes to produce good numbers. Of course, it all comes at the expense of his own defensive end sometimes.

121. Carolina: Antti Saarela, LW
His brother is already percolating in their prospect system. They grab him, hoping they can ignite each other. Saarela's season was a little disappointing for what he was expecting, resulting in him dropping into the late 4th round.
Comparison: Calle Jarnkrok. He's a versatile, Swiss Army Knife type of player that can play any role given to him. He likely turns out to become a third line energy player.

122. Buffalo [from San Jose]: Janis Moser, D
There are reports out about him meeting with Montreal and Buffalo. Knowing that Montreal has 3 picks in the 5th round might prompt the Sabres to jump on him early, not wanting to let him fall past them.
Comparison: Sami Niku. He's a smart, positionally sound defender with a high hockey IQ that looked excellent at the World Championships, where he earned praise from the likes of Roman Josi.

123. Toronto [from St. Louis]: Cole Mackay, RW
Kyle Dubas goes with his Sault Ste. Marie connections and drafts Mackay, an industrious, smart, technically sound winger that does all the little things to help his team win. His upside may not be huge, but he has potential to become a utility forward with some scoring skill.
Comparison: Connor Brown. He's a two-way winger that likely can come in and play a depth role, work hard and do whatever the coach asks of him.

124. Chicago [from Boston]: Erik Portillio, G
They need more goalies in their system. He'll be going to the University of Michigan next year, which will be a good developmental path for him.
Comparison: Jakob Markstrom. He's huge in size, with good strength and agility, making him a high upside goaltender


-- Round 5 --

125. Ottawa: Maxence Guenette, D
They grab another right-shooting defenseman. He's not flashy, but keeps the puck in motion, which is good since the game is built about puck movers these days.
Comparison: Matt Benning. He's a mobile puck mover that could find a depth role.

126. Los Angeles: Oleg Zaitsev, C
Looking for depth, the Kings grab a depth center that'll work hard on the ice and will be coached by Brent Sutter, which is something they'd like. In other words, guys that'll fill the role as #2/3/4 line guys. Zaitsev's a two-way guy with some skill. He's worth a shot in this range.
Comparison: Scott Laughton. He's the type of center that plays a 200 foot game and is very coachable. He'd work well as a depth guy.

127. New Jersey: Ondrej Psenicka, LW
He's a 6'5" Czech forward with an affinity for scoring goals. His size would be a welcome addition to the smaller, skilled forwards developing within the Devils organization.
Comparison: Alex Chiasson. He's a big, tall goal scorer that gets by with a nice wrister.

128. Detroit: Dmitri Sheshin, RW
Yzerman and company shoot for the moon with a late round Russian pick. He's short, standing only 5'7", but he's got a lot of skill.
Comparison: He's like a Russian Cam Atkinson. There's plenty of risk surrounding him because of his lack of size. He's got versatility, though, being a sniper and can hold his own defensively.

129. Washington [from Buffalo]: Josh Nodler, RW
The Caps can sometimes draft a lot from American developmental systems. Nodler's got some upside as a depth scorer. He's worthy of a pick here.
Comparison: Tanner Pearson. He might be able to develop into a bottom 6 scoring forward that can work powerplays.

130. New York Rangers: Cade Webber, D
He's a huge defenseman with good mobility. Thanks to his size, he's a huge boom or bust type. The Rangers will certainly hope for a "boom".
Comparison: Jamie Oleksiak. He's a huge defender that stands 6'6" and may even grow even further. He moves well enough to make the NHL and could become a shutdown defender.

131. Montreal [from Edmonton]: Jake Lee, D
Grabbing a defenseman that'll be developing in Kelowna next season, Lee's a big, heavy guy with a big shot from the point. He could be a late round steal. It's considered more depth to their left side of defense.
Comparison: Michael Stone. He's a mobile, physical defenseman who's a little underrated in terms of puck movement.

132. Anaheim: Nick Abruzzese, C/LW
They've been known to grab a few players from the Chicago Steel along the way in drafts. Abruzesse's an overager that's tiny, but with a lot of skill. He's close to stepping in and contributing, making him a credible boom-or-bust type.
Comparison: Jordan Weal. He's a smaller player with offensive skill, who might compete for a depth role.

133. Vancouver: Connor Horning, D
Despite the -77 plus/minus score, Horning could rise a little, showing much improvement in his play this year. He played on a weaker team, which deflated his stats, with a shrewd GM likely taking him on as a nice project.
Comparison: Ben Chiarot. He's a mobile, physical defenseman that might have some upside with his puck movement ability.

134. Winnipeg [from Philadelphia]: Ilya Konovalov, G
Wanting to boost their goalie stock, they take Konovalov, who's looked fantastic in the KHL... and he's only 20. He might fall because of that KHL factor, along with his overall lack of size, but for the 5th, he's a stellar pick.
Comparison: Alexandar Georgiev. He's a slight frame goalie that's incredibly athletic with the ability to be dominant once he's on his game.

135. Vegas [from Minnesota]: Reece Newkirk, C
He comes across as a warrior on the ice. The fact that he'd still be on the board is great news for Vegas, who'd be all over him, loving what he can bring.
Comparison: Brandon Tanev. He's got a non-stop motor, a team-first attitude and some grit. He's the type of player you win with.

136. Montreal [from Chicago]: Yegor Serdyuk, RW
A pure shooter, Montreal grab him after some Russians fall down the board. He put up a good point total in the Q and looks good analytics wise. They've got a need for scoring wingers and have shown an opening for Russian players. It's a combo that'd fit like a glove.
Comparison: Oliver Bjorkstrand. He's a shooter and offensive winger that has offensive scoring upside.

137. Florida: Cole Moberg, D
It's a big, right shot defenseman for the Panthers. He's got a big shot from the point, making him a valid prospect, making their right side depth even heavier.
Comparison: Ryan Sproul. I'm not sure on his overall upside... but he could definitely become a big offensive guy such as Sproul, who has had trouble finding a home in the NHL.

138. Montreal [from Arizona]: Trevor Janicke, RW
The Habs again go back to American developmental systems, grabbing Janicke, who has some energy and upside as a depth player. He's a longterm project, but if his offense develops alongside his two-way play, he could be a steal.
Comparison: Blake Coleman. He's not a huge forward. He's a guy that brings plenty of energy to the ice, he can score goals and works extremely hard.

139. Vegas [from Montreal]: Daniil Gutik, LW
The Knights take the chance on Gutik. He's a guy who, offensively, could go higher... but he faces way too many bouts of inconsistency and laziness. If he ever figures this out, he could be a steal.
Comparison: Pavel Buchnevich is probably his pure upside. Like I said, if he ever figures out his issues, he could be a decent offensive player.

140. Colorado: Kirill Slepets, RW/LW
They've grabbed a few Russians with mid-round picks before, hoping something will eventually work out. Slepets's game is all about pure speed, prompting the Avs to take a shot on him, wanting to add more of it.
CompariComparison: Paul Byron. He's a smaller, extremely mobile kid that uses his speed to burn opponents. He can also be used on a penalty kill to cut off pucks, create a rush going the other way and play a hard-nosed game.

141. Vegas: Arvid Costmar, C
He seems like the type of depth forward they'd covet. He's looked good at tournaments throughout the season, putting up decent numbers and coming up clutch.
Comparison: Oscar Lindberg. He's got some offensive skill, along with some two-way play. He could develop into a 3rd/4th line player.

142. Dallas: Juuso Parssinen, C
They have a liking towards Finns. A guy such as Parssinen could make a nice depth forward, even if his offensive ability isn't the highest. He at least has the size the Stars love in their players.
Comparison: Kyle Brodziak. He's a dependable player that is able to work well with any role given to him.

143. Detroit [from Columbus]: Vojtech Strondala, C
Due to being undersized, he goes later in the draft than he should. He's got high offensive upside, though. He'll be a project pick, with the Wings shooting for the moon.
Comparison: Mats Zuccarello. He's a 5'7" forward with good jump and offensive playmaking skill.

144. Winnipeg: Luke Toporowski, LW
After a big playoff performance, Toporowski could be taken anywhere from the late 3rd-to-5th round. Right now, I'll have the Jets drafting him, loving the way he can buzz around.
Compariso: Vladimir Sobotka. He's an on-ice shift disturber, who plays hard, works hard and can also provide some offense in a depth role.

145. Pittsburgh: Michael Gildon, LW/RW
They love drafting American forwards. With his size and tempo, he's got potential to become a depth/role player for them.
Comparison: Miles Wood. Owning good size and speed, he's the type of role playing forward that'll fight for pucks, work hard and use his size to try and create a physical presence.

146. Toronto: Lucas Feuk, LW
Returning to Sweden, they take an intelligent two-way forward. He works hard and seems like the type that'd be thought of highly within the Leafs organization.
Comparison: Richard Panik. He's a forward with middle 6 potential. It just depends on if he can reach it or not.

147. New York Islanders: Ethan Haider, G
With their future goaltending being a little in doubt -- especially on whether Sorokin is coming over or not -- they could take another goalie to build their depth up.
Comparison: Garrett Sparks. He could be someone that pushes for a starting role. He's incredibly young, with a late birthday, so it remains to be seen just how well he can develop.

148. Nashville: Matthew Steinburg, RW
He's a physical forward that'll be going to Cornell University next season. There's decent size and some hard-working skill that could be tantalizing for the Preds.
Comparison: Warren Foegele. He could become a speedy, hard-hitting winger that competes hard and goes to the net to score.

149. Minnesota [from Washington]: Lukas Parik, G
Their goalie situation is a little in flux right now. They need more bodies that could potentially work towards being a future starter. Parik's looked good as the starter for the Czechs. He might be a good value pick here.
Comparison: Linus Ullmark. He's a big European goalie that can put his body in front of pucks and come up big when it matters. I'm not sure on his overall upside, but he could fight as a back-up.

150. Calgary: Taylor Gauthier, G
They need goaltending depth pretty badly. Gauthier's an athletic, right-catching stopper. He's a Calgary boy, so there could be some incentive for him to compete hard.
Comparison: Louis Domingue. He's one of the rare goalies that use his right hand to catch pucks. He's got good athletic ability, which could add to his value.

151. Chicago [from Tampa Bay]: Kim Nouisianen, D
The Hawks take another Finn, letting him develop overseas. He could go higher... with his size holding him back. Standing only 5'9", he's got plenty of skill and has looked good throughout the year. If he's still here, they'd jump all over him.
Comparison: Victor Mete. He's your typical undersized, effectively mobile offensive defenseman.

152. Carolina: Aku Raty, RW
The 'Canes grab another Finn, liking Raty, who's likely a bottom 6 type of player that can also score some goals.
Comparison: Artturi Lehkonen. He profiles at a bottom 6 type of winger that's positionally sound, knows how to score and plays a two-way game.

153. San Jose: Filip Lindberg, G
On the outlook for more goalies in their system, they could aim their targets at Lindberg. He's an overager that's been developing at UMass, putting up great numbers in their respect program.
Comparison: Antti Raanta. He's not a huge goalie that's become so common. He's your averaged sized athletic goalie that plays with a lot of flexibility and agility.

154. St. Louis: Nolan Maier, G
Jordan Binnington has been holding the fort for now... but he's still in his rookie year. There's no telling if he's a flash in the pan or the real deal. With that said, they take another goalie to keep pushing him.
Comparison: Casey Desmith. Unlike the way goalies are trending, he's not a huge guy. He's more of a fast, agile goalie of average sized that'll work hard.

155. Boston: Oscar Bjerselius, C
They tend to like taking chances on Swedes. The Bruins grab him late, liking his IQ and potential.
Comparison: Lucas Wallmark. Not a huge guy, he's the type of positionally sound forward that makes the right play, works hard and does a lot of things right.


-- Round 6 --

156. Vancouver [from Ottawa]: Quinn Olson, LW
Rising up the rankings thanks to his play in the AJHL, he is the first player from that league taken, with the Canucks loving his playmaking ability and tenacity for the puck.
Comparison: Matt Calvert. He's hard-working kid that skates with fierce abandon afer the puck and is able to put up points.

157. Los Angeles: Grant Silianoff, LW
An energetic forward that'll be going to Notre Dame next year, he's the type that'd excel in a depth role, providing secondary scoring. He'll be a long-term project.
Comparison: Lee Stempniak. He can provide a spark of energy as a depth player, likely with some scoring.

158. New Jersey: Matias Mantykivi, RW
They grabbed a Finn by the ame of Aarne Talvitie a few years ago and he's come along quite well. They go back there, selecting Mantykivi, who's an offensive winger that they hope to turn into a long-term project.
Comparison: Andreas Johnsson. He's an offensive, playmaking forward with good offensive production that'll take some time for him to bloom.

159. Detroit: Arseni Gritsyuk, RW
It's another late round Russian for Steve Yzerman, liking Gritsyuk's upside. He's got the potential to be a late round steal... as long as he can develop properly.
Comparison: Dominik Simon. He's a hard-working, pure playmaker that works well in a depth role, yet is also able to thread pinpoint passes with great accuracy.

160. Buffalo: Adam Ahman, G
Possibly needing more goalies in their pipeline, they grab the Swede, Ahman, an overager that's also only average sized. That said, he's got some skill and could be a late bloomer.
Comparison: Juuse Saros. He's a smaller, skilled goalie that can be quite athletic in net.

161. New York Rangers: Jami Krannila, LW
He's a Finn playing in American collegiate systems. They'd take him to build up their depth at left wing. They could also enjoy his ability to turn on his jets.
Comparison: Carl Hagelin. Not a big guy, he's a pure speedster that'll kill you in the neutral zone, as he looks for turnovers to go on a breakaway.

162. Edmonton: Josh Williams, RW
It was a disappointing season for Williams, whose goal scoring productivity didn't shine through. The Oilers could take him here as a reclamation project, hoping he rebounds next season.
Comparison: Jordan Martinook. If his offense doesn't develop, he could potentially use his speed to forecheck hard and work the corners in a depth role.

163. Anaheim: Max Crozier, D
The Ducks grab another overager that'll soon be a producer at a pro level. It'd give them another right shooter, stocking themselves up heavily.
Comparison: Kevin Connauton. He's a hard-shooting defenseman that likes to score goals. Probably works best in a depth role.

164. Vancouver: Simon Gnyp, D
In another pickup for their defense, the Canucks grab the young German kid. He was born a few days before the draft cutoff, so he has plenty of development still to come. They've had a few Germans in their rankings before, so they'd feel at ease taking him.
Comparison: Tim Heed. He's a depth puck moving defenseman with some offense in his game.

165. Philadelphia: Gianni Fairbrother, D
They've taken a few WHL defensemen these past few years. One of which is Wyatte Wylie. In turn, they grab his defensive partner, reuniting them, hoping to build some chemistry within the team.
Comparison: Dylan Demelo. He's got a mixture of mobility, physicality and offense that makes him an all-around defender.

166. Minnesota: Brady Meyer, C
His numbers weren't great, but he's got some upside in his game. Minnesota's scouts are surely aware of him, hoping he can turn things around next season.
Comparison: Brian Boyle. He's a huge forward/center that skates well, can force turnovers and can use his size to his advantage. He's very raw, but could have some upside in him, if given enough time.

167. Chicago: Owen Lindmark, C
Adding another local, the Hawks could like what Lindmark brings to the table. He can be a workhorse for them, doing the difficult things to help win battles.
Comparison: Nate Thompson. He's not an offensive guy; he's the type you throw out onto the ice in a 4th line role to win faceoffs, battle hard and try to gain energy.

168. Florida: Braden Doyle, D
Drafting a mobile, smooth defender, the Panthers keep their blueline heavily stacked. He's an American kid with plenty of mobility. He might have some depth upside.
Comparison: Jordan Oesterle. He's a mobile, speedy defender that can score and work hard to maintain possession.

169. Philadelphia [from Arizona]: Mikhail Abramov, RW/C
Philadelphia takes a Russian that's playing in the Q that's an absolute skill guy. His lack of size might vault him into the 6th round, where they can select him, liking his offensive output.
Comparison: Alex Kerfoot. He's an undersized playmaking forward whose main skill revolves around setting up his linemates

170. Montreal: Xavier Simoneau, C/LW
They appease their local contingent of fans, taking the local kid. He's got some issues with his size and his skating needs to be worked on, but his feistiness can make up for it. It's a shoot for the moon type of pick for the Habs.
Comparison: Any team that drafts him will hope he can become the next Yanni Gourde, playing with offensive skill and with some edge. Otherwise, maybe he's a Charles Hudon type.

171. Colorado: Adam Liska, LW
Working hard in the KHL, Liska's shown improvement this year that should grant him to be drafted by a club. He was passed over last year and some savvy team could take him, liking his progression this year.
Comparison: Drake Caggiula. This Slovakian winger tirelessly fights for pucks, possibly working best as a bottom 6 forward.

172. Minnesota [from Vegas]: Nikola Pasic, LW
The Wild return to Sweden, drafting Pasic. He's got some skill in his game and could contend for a depth role on the team in the future. He's a boom or bust type.
Comparison: Markus Sorensen. He's likely a complementary depth winger with some scoring skill at the professional level.

173. Dallas: Cole Schwindt, RW
Schwindt's got some good size and improved his game down the stretch in the OHL. He's a versatile kid that could play in various roles, also having some decent playmaking skill.
Comparison: Jay Beagle. A do-it-all depth forward that'll work hard at both ends of the ice.

174. Arizona [from Columbus]: Garrett Pinoniemi, LW
Straight out of a high school, the Coyotes take a chance on him. He's got really solid skill... albeit he plays against weaker competition. It remains to be seen just what his upside is.
Comparison: To me, he's something like an Adam Gaudette, with his thin frame mixed with his skilled features.

175. Buffalo [from Winnipeg]: Elmer Soderblom, LW
Adding a gigantic winger from Sweden, the Sabres boost their winger depths. He looked decent at the U18; but obviously needs to work on his skating.
Comparison: Michael McCarron/Hugh Jessiman. Gigantic, 6'7" forwards are a rare breed, it's hard to knock down a comparable for him. Think of him as a huge power winger with great height that's slow, yet complements undersized forwards well.

176. Arizona [from Pittsburgh]: Tomas Mazura, C
This Czech center is a 6'2"/6'3" projectable forward that had a breakout year. He'll be develop in US college next season and it makes him enticing to a smaller team such as Arizona.
Comparison: Nic Dowd. An all-around center with nice size and playmaking ability.

177. Buffalo [from Toronto]: Will Francis, D
He's a huge physical defenseman that plays with toughness. He may be something the Sabres could like as a late pick, giving them some more "ooomph" in their lineup.
Comparison: Ben Harpur. Gigantic, powerful defenseman that can clear out the front of the net, can be physical and has some upside.

178. New York Islanders: Matej Blumel, LW/C
He probably should taken been drafted last year. He goes this year, with improved development as a player that uses his speed to produce in every area of the ice.
Comparison: Luke Glendening. It's likely he works out as a depth forward that can burn you with his speed, especially on a penalty kill.

179. Nashville: Anthony Romano, C/RW
Last season in the USHL, he did a good job or providing offense and playing an all-around game in season and looked good during the playoffs. He'd be a boost to the Predators forward group.
Comparison: Brandon Pirri. A goal scoring forward that contributes in a depth role. There might be some hidden upside here as a steal.

180. Vancouver [from Washington]: Massimo Rizzo, RW
Late in the 6th round, they grab a local kid that has some wicked hands. He's been playing in the BCHL and could develop into a pure skilled.
Comparison: Ryan Spooner. He's a gifted playmaker that plays center or wing and is able to make pinpoint passes to teammates.

181. Carolina [from Calgary]: Henry Rybinski, LW/RW
He's got potential to become a depth winger that provides some offense. After joining his new club, he was finally given an opportunity to contribute, proving he's got uncertain upside.
Comparison: David Kampf. He's likely a bit of a project as a guy with some offensive potential.

182. Tampa Bay: Sean Larochelle, D
They tend to draft heavily from the Q. Grabbing a defenseman for their backend, they take Larochelle, an undersized offensive d-man. Not a huge guy, but an offensively credible threat.
Comparison: Troy Stecher. A right-shooting defenseman that's good at transporting the puck, along with delivering offense from the back.

183. Carolina: Nikita Okhotyuk, D
They grab a physical Russian defenseman that's playing in the OHL. It's a boost to their blueline, giving them some depth.
Comparison: Mark Borowiecki. His game revolves around physical play, with some safe puck movement. His upside is something of a #6-7 type of defenseman.

184. San Jose: Yevgeni Oksentyuk, RW/LW
This tiny forward was the best player for Team Belarus at the U18 tournament. He was an absolute firecracker on the puck, which is something the Sharks would be willing to gamble with in the 6th round.
Comparison: Conor Sheary. He's an incredibly boom or bust type. Diminuitive in size, he's got plenty of skill... but that size can be extremely troublesome. With the way undersized forwards are exploding in the modern NHL, an undersized guy like this in the 6th round is great value.

185. Anaheim [from St. Louis]: Lynden Breen, RW/C
Playing at the University of Maine next season, Lynden Breen is a speedy, two-way forward. Like always, they'll be patient with him and hope can become a useful worker. He seems like the type of forward the Ducks enjoy taking risks on late in the draft.
Comparison: Matthew Peca. Standing only 5'9", he's a speedy forward that knows how to play a positioally sound two-way game.

186. Boston: Albert Lyckasen, D
A right-shot defenseman that plays a safe, calm game. They go to Sweden again, thinking he could be a nice addition in a few years, even if it's as a depth defender.
Comparison: Christian Djoos. He's a slick, calm defenseman that moves well with the puck and keeps things in movement.


-- Round 7 --

187. Ottawa: Cole McLaren, G
The Nova Scotian-born goalie heads to Ottawa, who'd like to see how he develops. His size is impressive and gives them more depth in goal.
Comparison: Curtis McElhinney. He's a 6'3" goalie with some upside and good stats, who could develop as a backup or more.

188. Los Angeles: Ludvig Hedstrom, D
Still loving their Swedes, the Kings take Hedstrom with their final pick of the draft. He looked passable throughout the year, owning good puck movement skill despite having only average size.
Comparison: Laurence Pilut. He has the potential to be a low key offensive contributor.

189. New Jersey: Jacob Leguerrier, D
In order to bolster their blueline depth, they try their luck by taking the big defender, Leguerrier, from the OHL. He's a longterm guy with some potential.
Comparison: Christian Folin. He's big, he's physical and could have upside as a shutdown defenseman.

190. Detroit: Mason Primeau, C
He comes from a good family pedigree, prompting Steve Yzerman to happily draft him. The Wings would love to add his size and physical package to their core, thinking he's got good upside as a physical depth forward.
Comparison: His top end is probably something like an Adam Lowry or Lawson Crouse, a huge, physical center that can work the corners, play physical and has all-around ability. Maybe more of a Jujar Khaira or Chris Thorburn type.

191. Buffalo: Marc del Gaizo, D
After being unnecessarily passed over last year, he deserves to be taken this year. He put up impressive offensive numbers, making him an ideal candidate to be drafted.
Comparison: Marc-Andre Bergeron. He's a high offense, low defense type of offensive defenseman that's lacking in size.

192. Boston [from New York Rangers]: Martin Lang, LW
He's the youngest player in the draft, being born right on the cut-off date. His numbers this season weren't perfect, but he was also the youngest prospect playing all season long. In the 7th round you're getting good value, especially as a team that has a good history with Czech players.
Comparison: Tobias Rieder. It's hard to say what he'll develop into. Maybe he becomes a serviceable NHL'er such as Rieder; or maybe he's a bust. It's a shot in the dark, with the Bruins willing to take the risk.

193. Edmonton: Filip Cederqvist, LW/RW
Ken Holland has a noted history of taking Swedes late in the draft. They take a chance on another one, liking the overage Cederqvist who showed nice development this year.
Comparison: Joakim Nordstrom. He's a versatile forward that work in many roles, which often allows him to compement scoring lines.

194. Chicago [from Anaheim]: Simon Mack, D
They use a late round pick on Simon Mack, who put up flashy, offenive numbers in the CCHL last season. He's a high risk type that they can afford to take with a 7th rounder.
Comparison: Chris Wideman. He's a small offensive defender that'll be going to college in American next year.

195. Vancouver: Maxim Shabanov, RW
The Canucks often stray from Russians. In the 7th round, taking a flyer on Shabanov wouldn't be a bad idea for them.
Comparison: Kirill Kaprizov. He's kind of like a Russian Johnny Gaudreau. He's tiny, super skilled and also has the fear of KHL over him and not coming over. As a result, he drops into the 7th round.

196. Philadelphia: Dmitri Voronkov, LW
The Flyers have often taken a few Russians on as projects. They could do the same here, liking his combo of size and skating.
Comparison: Zach Sanford. He's a big winger that uses his size and speed to produce. Likely works best as a forward that complements skilled lines.

197. Minnesota: Keighan Gerrie, C
Coming up through Ontario minor leagues, he'll be playing for Minnesota in the NAHL next season. He's an offensively gifted forward, but who knows how he'll play against his peers.
Comparison: Jean-Sebastian Dea. Standing at only average height, he's got high offensive ability with the ability to put up points.

198. Tampa Bay [from Chicagp]: Alexander Daryin, RW
It wouldn't be the NHL draft if Tampa Bay didn't select an offensively skilled Russian late. They proceed to follow form, taking Daryin, who's got good offensive potential.
Comparison: Dominik Kahun. A purely skilled offensive forward who focuses more on the offensive end.

199. Florida: Kristian Tanus, LW
He was passed over last year, likely become of his size, but he's got excellent offensive instincts and only continued to improve this season. It'd be another Finnish addition to the Panthers lineup.
Comparison: Vinnie Hinistroza. He's a playmaker that's smaller in size, with excellent vision, IQ and offensive awareness.

200. Arizona: Keean Washkurak, C
He's a hard-working, never-say-quit type of forward. With Arizona drafting so heavily out of the OHL, he could be an option.
Comparison: Nick Cousins. He's an aggressive center that'll do all the hard things to win games, likely in a depth role.

201. Philadelphia [from Montreal]: Roman Bychkov, D
The Flyers take another Russian. Bychkov's a smooth-skating defender and they'd be thrilled if he's still on the board, feeling he has top 150 upside.
Comparison: Joakim Ryan. He keeps things simple and mobile, aiding in the transition of pucks up ice. He likely works best as a depth defenseman.

202. Colorado: Jonathan Brinkman, LW
The Avs like taking players that looked really good at tournaments. He had a decent showing with Denmark at the WJC. They could take a late round flyer on him.
Comparison: Matt Nieto. He's likely a depth forward that'll work hard, impresses with his speed and works many roles.

203. Pittsburgh [from Vegas]: Austen Swankler, LW
He's a local kid, with the Pens liking what he could bring. Not only do they love American forwards, they also have a liking for local guys.
Comparison: Alex Iafallo. He's a complementary offensive forward that has some underlying skill in his game.

204. Toronto [from Dallas]: Joe Carroll,LW
The Dubas-Greyhound connection rings in again, with the Leafs grabbing the OHL power forward. His season was a little lackluster, finally turning it on in the playoffs, albeit in just a few games.
Comparison: Brett Ritchie. He plays a power game, going to the net and the difficult areas.

205. New York Rangers [from Columbus]: Cameron Rowe, G
While his numbers aren't in his favor, the Rangers take him late, hoping he can turn things around. He's got respectable size. Maybe he can work as a future backup, if all things go right.
Comparison: Al Montoya. Both Illinois-born talent, he's got similar upside and could have a similar type of career as long as everything works out for him.

206. Montreal [from Winnipeg]: Eric Ciccolini, RW
After dominating the OJHL, he'll be going to the University of Michigan next year. It's a program the Habs tend to love, making him a good fit to be drafted by them, with their scouting staff loving these long-range sort of forwards.
Comparison: Ty Rattie. He's an offensively gifted attacking winger with an excellent wrist shot.

207. Pittsburgh: Carter Berger, D
Venturing to the BCHL, they take Berger, a high-offensive upside defenseman. There's still holes in his game, but he's got some good skill. In the 7th round, you're not getting any better options for a team that has only 2 draft picks.
Comparison: Joe Morrow. An offensive defenseman with defensive deficiencies, he has the ability to put plenty of points on the board.

208. Toronto: Ivan Drozdov, RW
They take the Belarussian forward with excellent skill and shooting ability. He has the potential to become a depth forward that can be used in any situation.
Cmmparison: Joonas Donskoi. He's a depth winger with good hands, a strong work ethic and has the ability to shoot and score.

209. New York Islanders: Logan Barlage, C
With their final pick, they grab a big center whom they hope can have a Brett Leason-like breakout next year. They need more depth down the middle, so it's a throw-in pick that they hope "hits".
Comparison: Derek Grant. A sizeable center with some grit and determination that could work in a depth role.

210. Nashville: Bryce Brodzinski, RW
Overager with some playmaking skill and speed. For a late round pick, you're probably not going to get better value.
Comparison: Mason Appleton. He's got good size and knows how to be a playmaker. Likely a depth player in the pro ranks.

211. Washington: Zachary Okabe, RW
The Capitals use their final pick on a smaller, skilled winger. He's looked good developing in the AJHL and will be competing at St. Cloud next year.
Comparison: Brett Seney. He's another small,yet offensive forward that teams usually take a risk on in later rounds.

212. Columbus [from Calgary]: Adam Najman, LW
The Jackets use their final, yet 2nd, pick on a winger with some offensive skill. He'll be another long-term project with some skill and talent. Worthy of a shot in the 7th.
Comparison: Brad Richardson. If he were to ever make it, it'd likely be as a depth winger that has some cageyness and offensive skill and two-way smarts.

213. Tampa Bay: Valeri Orekhov, D
After a good performance at the WJC and in the KHL, this overage defenseman has the likelihood of being drafted. The Bolts seem like a team that could add him, wanting to keep adding defensive depth.
Comparison: Markus Nutivaraa. He's a safe mobile defenseman that keeps things simple, playing a calming style.

214. Calgary [from Carolina]: Quinn Schmiemann, D
They were probably hoping Okabe would be there. Instead, they grab a defenseman that they're surprised to still be there.
Comparison: Nick Seeler. Likely becomes a big, depth defenseman with all-around ability.

215. San Jose: Ilya Mironov, D
The Sharks take a big, Russian tank-like defenseman for their final pick. They'd be shocked to still see him here, especially after his solid WJC.
Comparison: Jonathan Ericsson. He's likely to become a big shutdown defenseman with a heavy shot.

216. St. Louis: Luke Bast, D
Colton Parayko comes from a similar background. They grab him, hoping he has a similar development curve.
Comparison: Matt Gryzcelcyk. He's a long-term project. Right now, he's undersized, standing only 5'9", but he's a puck-mover with some good hockey sense and offensive tools.

217. Carolina [from Boston]: Nando Eggenberger, LW
They grab an overager as the final pick of the draft. He's got some size and skill; just needs to work on his skating some more.
Comparison: Dmitrj Jaskin. His skating isn't ideal, but he's got the size to compete as a potential 4th liner.


Notable players left undrafted: Vladimir Alistrov; Max Wahlgren; Sergei Sapego; Yaroslav Likhachyev; Filip Koffer; Christopher Merisier-Ortiz; Maxim Denezhkin; Cody Morgan; Mark Kastelic.

SUMMARY

Anaheim:
---
9. Kirby Dach, C
29. Ryan Johnson, LD
39. Tobias Bjornfot, LD
101. Ryan Siedem, RD
132. Nick Abruzesse, LW/C
163. Max Crozier, RD
185. Lynden Breen, RW


Arizona:
---
14. Cole Caufield, RW
45. Nolan Foote, LW
74. Blake Murray, C
76. Jordan Spence, RD
107. Dustin Wolf, G
174. Garrett Pinoniemi, LW
176. Tomas Mazura, C
200. Keean Washkurak, C


Boston:
---
31. Jackson Lacombe, LD
93. Patrick Moynihan, RW
155. Oscar Bjerselius, C
186. Albert Lyckasen, RD
192. Martin Lang, LW


Buffalo:
---
7. Matthew Boldy, LW
30. John Beecher, C/LW
67. Ryder Donovan, RW/C
122. Janis Moser, LD
160. Adam Ahman, G
175. Elmer Soderblom, LW
177. Will Francis, RD
191. Marc del Gaizo, LD


Calgary:
---
26. Bobby Brink, RW
88. Marcus Kallionkieli, LW
150. Taylor Gauthier, G
214. Quinn Schmiemann, LD


Carolina:
---
28. Connor McMichael, C
36. Patrik Puistola, LW
37. Brett Leason, RW
59. Alex Vlasic, LD
90. Isaiah Saville, G
121. Antti Saarela, LW/RW
152. Aku Raty, RW
181. Henry Rybinski, LW/RW
183. Nikita Okhotyuk, LD
217. Nando Eggenberger, LW


Chicago:
---
3. Alex Turcotte, C
43. Vladislav Kolyachonok, LD
105. Valentin Nussbaumer, C/LW
124. Erik Portillio, G
167. Owen Lindmark, C
151. Kim Nouisianen, LD
194. Simon Mack, RD


Colorado:
---
4. Bowen Byram, LD
16. Spencer Knight, G
47. Nikita Alexandrov, C/LW
63. Harrison Blaisdell, LW
78. Yegor Spiridonov C
140. Kirill Slepets, RW/LW
171. Adam Liska, LW
202. Jonathan Brinkman, LW


Columbus:
---
81. Alex Beaucage, RW
212. Adam Najman, LW


Dallas:
---
18. Philip Tomasino, RW/C
111. Case McCarthy, RD
142. Juuso Parssinen, C
173. Cole Schwindt, RW


Detroit:
---
6. Moritz Seider, RD
35. Jamieson Rees, C/LW
54. Artemi Kniazev, LD
60. Pyotr Kochetkov, G
66. Karl Henriksson, C/LW
97. Albert Johansson, LD
128. Dmitri Sheshin, RW
143. Vojtech Strondala, C
159. Arseni Gritsyuk, RW
190. Mason Primeau, C/LW


Edmonton:
---
8. Philip Broberg, LD
38. Brayden Tracey, LW/RW
85. Graeme Clarke, RW
100. Matvei Guskov, LW/C
162. Josh Williams, RW
193. Filip Cederqvist, LW/RW


Florida:
---
13. Vasili Podkolzin, RW
52. Ilya Nikolayev, C
69. Samuel Bolduc, LD
104. Samuel Hlavaj, G
106. Henry Thrun, LD
114. Leevi Aaltonen, LW
137. Cole Moberg, RD
168. Braden Doyle, LD
199. Kristian Tanus, LW/C


Los Angeles:
---
5. Trevor Zegras, C/LW
22. Ville Heinola, LD
33. Nicholas Robertson, LW
64. Adam Beckman, LW/C
87. Martin Hugo Has, RD
95. Hunter Jones, G
119. Sasha Mutala, RW
126. Oleg Zaitsev, C
157. Grant Silianoff, LW
188. Ludvig Hedstrom, LD


Minnesota:
---
12. Peyton Krebs, C/Lw
42. Jakob Pelletier, LW
73. Mikko Kokkonen, LD
99. Benjamin Brinkman, LD
149. Lukas Parik, G
166. Brady Meyer, C
172. Nikola Pasic, LW
197. Keighan Gerrie, C


Montreal:
---
15. Thomas Harley, LD
46. Samuel Fagemo, RW/LW
50. Daniil Misyul, LD
77. Alexander Campbell, LW
108. Henri Nikkanen, C/LW
131. Jake Lee, LD
136. Yegor Serdyuk, RW
138. Trevor Janicke, RW
170. Xavier Simoneau, C/Lw
206. Eric Ciccolini, RW


Nashville:
---
24. Nils Hoglander, LW
75. Michal Teply, LW
109. Rhett Pitlick, LW/RW
117. Mike Koster, LD
148. Matthew Steinburg, RW
179. Anthony Romano, C/RW
210. Bryce Brodzinski, RW


New Jersey:
---
1. Jack Hughes, C/RW
34. Lassi Thomson, RD
55. Marshall Warren, LD
62. Shane Pinto, RW
70. Hugo Alnefelt, G
80. Ethan Keppen, LW
96. Ethan Phillips, RW/LW
127. Ondrej Psenicka, LW
158. Matias Mantykivi, RW
189. Jacob Leguerrier, RD


New York Islanders:
---
23. Raphael Lavoie, LW/RW
57. Maxim Cajkovic, LW/RW
116. Aaron Huglen, LW
147. Ethan Haider, G
178. Matej Blumel, C/LW
209. Logan Barlage, C


New York Rangers:
---
2. Kaapo Kakko, Rw
20. Pavel Dorofeyev, RW/LW
49. Albin Grewe, RW
58. Vladislav Firstov, LW
68. Anttoni Honka, RD
112. Domenick Fensore, LD
130. Cade Webber, LD
161. Jami Krannila, LW
205. Cameron Rowe, G


Ottawa:
---
19. Cam York, LD
32. Samuel Poulin, LW
44. Kaedan Korczak, RD
83. Billy Constantinou, RD
94. Judd Caulfield, RW
125. Maxence Guenette, RD
187. Cole McLaren, G


Philadelphia:
---
11. Dylan Cozens, C/RW
41. Jayden Struble, LD
65. Nathan Legare, RW
72. Ronnie Attard, RD
103. John Malone, RW
165. Gianni Fairbrother, LD
169. Mikhail Abramov, RW/C
196. Dmitri Voronkov, LW
201. Roman Bychkov, LD


Pittsburgh:
---
21. Arthur Kaliyev, LW
98. Colten Ellis, G
145. Michael Gildon, LW/RW
203. Austen Swankler, LW
207. Carter Berger, LD


San Jose:
---
91. Tuukka Tieksola, RW
152. Filip Lindberg, G
184. Yevgeni Oksentyuk, RW/LW
215. Ilya Mironov, LD


St. Louis:
---
61. Drew Helleson, RD
92. Michael Vukojevic, LD
154. Nolan Maier, G
216. Luke Bast, LD


Tampa Bay:
---
27. Ryan Suzuki, C
89. Aliaksei Protas, LW/RW
120. Justin Bergeron, LD
182. Sean Larochelle, RD
198. Alexander Daryin, RW
213. Valeri Orekhov, LD


Toronto:
---
53. Mads Sogaard, G
84. Kalle Loponen, RD
125. Mattias Norlinder, LD
123. Cole Mackay, RW
146. Lucas Feuk, LW
204. Joe Carroll, LW
208. Ivan Drozdov, RW


Vancouver:
---
10. Alex Newhook, LW/C
40. Matthew Robertson, LD
72. Simon Lundmark, RD
102. Dillon Hamaliuk, LW
133. Connor Horning, RD
156. Quinn Olson, LW
164. Simon Gnyp, LD
180. Massimo Rizzo, RW
195. Maxim Shabanov, RW


Vegas:
---
17. Victor Soderstrom, RD
48. Simon Holmstrom, RW
79. John Farinacci, C
82. Semyon Chistyakov, LD
86. Matias Maccelli, LW
110. Trent Miner, G
135. Reece Newkirk, C
139. Daniil Gutik, LW
141. Arvid Costmar, C


Washington:
---
25. Yegor Afanasyev, LW/C
56. Robert Mastrosimone, LW
118. Layton Ahac, LD
129. Josh Nodler, RW
211. Zackary Okabe, RW


Winnipeg:
---
51. Antti Tuomisto, RD
113. Zac Jones, LD
134. Ilya Konovalov, G
144. Luke Toporowski, LW

Click to read more...

 

[Plekatorz]

Gratz for all the work you’ve done, impressive. I would be please with all habs picks

 

[ChicagoBullsFan]

Good mock draft.
Can you please make early 2020 7 round mock draft later this summer?

 

[ChicagoBullsFan]

Good mock draft.
Can you please make early 2020 7 round mock draft later this summer?

 

[CaptainScrewy]

Wow , good stuff. I agree with your assessment that a run on a D could happen in the top 15ish picks, everyone thinks it us a forward heavy draft but wouldn't surprise me if 3 dman go top 10 and 5 in top 15.

Love the Panthers pick too btw

 

[VikingAv]

Fantastic work!

 

[Makaveli]

Appreciate all the effort you put into this!

 

[cheesymc]

One of the most comprehensive mock drafts, well done!

 

[KingBogo]

No shortage of work went into this. Appreciate the read. Great job.

 

[Nodoughtyboutit]

Great read! I think youre dead on for LA if Byram isnt there we should go with Zegras.

 

[OB5]

This is awesome. Thanks for the effort here, well done

 

[Chan790]

Love this draft for the Canes.

 

[Nut Upstrom]

I don't think that many Wings fans will be on board with reaching for Seider at 6, but I love it.
Great job, the time and effort you put into this is much appreciated, thanks!

 

[Tkachuckycheese]

Always look forward to your mock drafts

 

[Sens of Anarchy]

Nice job

 

[New Jersey Devils]

Well done. One of the most thorough mock drafts I've seen. Really like NJ's picks too.

 

[flyersdad]

great work. I would be surprised if the Flyers take a high schooler (even though they took OBrien last year with some not great yields after yr 1) in rd 2 with Kolyachonok and Vlasic on the board. I love the Flyers 3rd round picks. Legare is a goal scorer that they need and I think Attard is going to go high rd 2 or maybe even sneak into the end of rd 1. He had 30 goals and outscored Brandon Montour in his draft year (both were 3rd year eligible when drafted). Im kinda hoping the flyers get both attard and zac jones and pair them together

 

[Mallard]

I'd probably want Lassi Thomson instead of Ryan Johnson, but if we get Dach/Thomson or Johnson/Bjornfot with our first 3 picks I'd be very happy.

 

[AveryStar4Eva]

Wow how long did this take you nice job. Good break down on all the players.

 

[Bill Herlyn]

Great job!! Appreciate the hard work!

 

[krt88nc]

How do you have time to do this? Seriously, it’s like a draft guide.

 

[loadie]

Wow, I had a nap just thinking of all the work you did on this, I really appreciate it.

 

[jfhabs]

Amazing work.

 

[heyfolks]

Do you track your work to the actual picks?

 

[HernzNation]

Just an exceptional and brilliantly detailed mock. Better than most magazines. Stroke of genius with the Seider pick too. Excellent work and look forward to next year's!