newdimension
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- May 18, 2013
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NOTES:
- This is my spring mock. The draft order is based on my predicted playoff/Conference Finals winners, along with who I'm predicting wins the Cup. It's going to be 4 rounds, with a summary at the end.
For the record, I have the Rangers and Florida in the West, with Florida moving on. For the West, I have Dallas and Edmonton, with Dallas moving on. In the finals, I have the Panthers losing in back-to-back years, with Dallas coming out on top, winning the Championship.
- All notes and comparisons are mine. As always, I'm just a fan. I don't get to see every player or every game -- it'd be insane to think so. But I do like keeping up to date with draft year prospects. Also, of course: not every player comparison is going to be 100% accurate; and guys will bust and so on.
- Lottery winners, as per tankathon: 1. San Jose; 2. Seattle.
Round 1
1. San Jose: Macklin Celebrini, C
If the Sharks luck out and win the lottery, Celebrini is the obvious choice as >the guy< of the draft. Not only does he have local connections to the San Jose area, but he's also going to Boston University, with the Sharks having their own ties to Boston. It's the perfect fit for both sides, with Celebrini, the reigning Hobey Baker winner, a surefire bet to become the future top line center for San Jose.
Comparison: He's kind of like a mixture of Jonathan Toews and Joe Pavelski. He's got the leadership and two-way play of a Toews, making a difference at both ends of the ice. Meanwhile, he also has the grind-it-out, sniping game of a young Joe Pavelski, who just knows how to get pucks in the net.
2. Seattle: Ivan Demidov, RW
The Kraken would love to win the lottery and move up to draft an ultra-skilled player such as Demidov. He gives them an infusion of skill that they really need, fitting in really well with the type of system then run. More importantly, he would make a tremendous linemate for Matthew Beniers.
Comparison: Artemi Panarin.. An ultra-skilled Russian winger, Demidov caan be an offensive weapon that can equally shoot and pass the puck with tremendous skill. He's a game changer that can drive a line from the wing.
3. Chicago: Cayden Lindstrom, C/LW
Providing he receives a good bill of health at the combine, the Blackhawks would love to select Lindstrom at this point, hoping to surround Connor Bedard with some size and "beef". That said, he's missing the U18's and the concerns about his back injury could be perilous to his draft positioning, which could drop him down the board.
Comparison: Brady Tkachuk. Lindstrom's a prototypical power forward, who incidentally also plays center. As a shoot-first guy, who'll put up huge shots-on-goal numbers, while also playing with intensity and physicality.
4. Anaheim: Carter Yakemchuk, D
Last year, they went with "their guy". They could do the same here, taking a huge swing on talent and upside with Yakemchuk. After trading away Jamie Drysdale for Cutter Gauthier, it's left a hole on their right side of defense, which surely Yakemchuk could fill. With his size, elements of physicality and offensive upside, he'd make a perfect selection for them.
Comparison: Brent Burns. Yakemchuk's a big project. He's big, he's physical, provides tons of offensive skill and shots from the point. He reminds me of a younger, more raw version of Burns in the way he moves on the ice and in total upside.
5. Columbus: Artyom Levshunov, D
Even though they have David Jiricek and have a need for more centers, they could probably take the best player available. In this case, Levshunov is probably the top guy available, giving them someone that does his best work on a powerplay. There's a Michigan connection, there, too; with the Jackets often liking to draft from there.
Comparison: Zach Werenski, but with a little more physicality. Levshunov's a pure attacking defenseman with excellent size and skating, acting like a 4th forward on the ice. He loves peppering shots on the net and does in deep on the powerplay to try and help his team win.
6. Montreal: Tij Iginla, LW/RW
They seem to be pretty dead-set on taking a forward with their first pick, which makes me think they're high on Demidov, Lindstrom and Iginla in that order. Catton could be another guy; but their staff tends to pass on guys they consider smaller. As such, I think they take a shot at Iginla, rectifying passing on his father over a decade ago. He seems like someone their staff would absolutely love, thinking he'd make a fantastic addition to their top six. Of course, there's always a chance that Zayne Parekh turns into a huge star and makes them pay for passing on him... but we'll have to see!
Comparison: Zach Parise. While there are a lot of comparisons to his father, I don't think he has the pure power forward style as Jarome. Instead, he plays a more skilled game, but also loves getting on the inside, getting his nose dirty with some grinding. Therefore, maybe a super-grinder such as Parise is more apt, especially knowing that they both play a gutsy, skilled, two-way, volume shooter style of game.
7. Utah: Zayne Parekh, D
First of all, apologies in advance for all the times I'll surely accidentally type "Arizona" in this post. With that out of the way, I could see Utah loving Parekh, thinking he'd be a perfect addition to run their powerplay. They could even pair him with the calming influence of a Dmitri Simashev to reel him in, with Simashev allowing for Parekh to be unleashed offensively.
Comparison: A Mike Green/Erik Karlsson'ish type of defenseman. An absolute offensive dynamo from the backend, who can run powerplays with ease. Unfortunately, when it comes to the defensive game, it's when he runs into trouble. He's going to need a lot of developmental to work on this area... but the offense he can provide in terms of play-creation and getting pucks on net is incredible.
8. Ottawa: Zeev Buium, D
In a playoffs where he looked stellar, Buium's stock is likely be on the rise after helping the University of Denver to the NCAA championship. While the Sens would prefer a RHD, Buium would be difficult for them to pass on, thinking he's got future 1D potential.
Comparison: Mark Giordano. He reminds me of the the Mark Giordano of a decade or so ago. He's calm, composed, moves pucks well and plays a well-rounded game, adding a lot of offense from the blueline.
9. Calgary: Konsta Helenius, C/RW
Aleady playing against men in the Liiga over in Finland, Helenius oould be someone the Flames have an eye on. He'd fulfill their need for center, giving them a talented, all-around center that excels in many different situations.
Comparison: Nick Suzuki. To me, Helenius is kind of a Nick Suzuki clone. He's an all-IQ type of talent, knowing what to do and where to go to produce at both ends of the ice. He may not be the biggest, instead using his overall smarts to bring both offense and defense.
10. New Jersey: Sam Dickinson, D
Sam Dickinson may not fill a need for the Devils, but he's absolutely the best player on the board for them. The fact that he's made it this far is almost miraculous for them, furthering strengthening their already-stacked blueline. A future pairing of Dickinson-Luke Hughes would be absolutely dominant.
Comparison: Kaiden Guhle. Dickinson's a big, extremely mobile, versatile defenseman that's extremely well-rounded. He may not be equipped with elite offensive upside, but he can move pucks and shutdown opponents, playing a sound defensive game.
11. Buffalo: Berkly Catton, C/LW
After receiving Bowen Byram from Colorado in exchange for Casey Mittelstadt, they might be a little more set on defense. As such, they go for the next best choice, which would be Catton, whose analytics and numbers perfectly fit into the Sabres' plans. Just like how they were able to land Matt Savoie and Zach Benson, they're also able to grab Catton, who is a similar undersized skilled forward.
Comparison: Clayton Keller. Catton's not the biggest player, but he's ultra-skilled. At his best, he can be a playmaking wizard that also loves firing the puck, putting up a lot of offense and transition ability. His game is well-rounded, too, enabling him to potentially use his speed to kill you on a penalty kill.
12. Philadelphia: Anton Silayev, D
They were able to grab the falling Russian, Matvei Michkov, last year. This year, they can take a shot at Anton Silayev, who is the unicorn for this draft. Huge in size, he's likely selected anywhere from 2nd overall to mid-first. After a hot start, his offense dried out, resulting in some teams passing on him in favor of some other skilled forwards.
Comparison: Colton Parayko. Standing 6'7", Silayev's a towering Russian defenseman that plays a two-way game, with a long, active stick. For a man his size, he's got excellent skating, a long and active stick, plays with physicality and has potential to be a modern day shutdown defenseman.
13. Minnesota: Michael Brandsegg-Nygard, RW
The Wild might be interested in grabbing a player with good analytics, along with some size and grit. Nygard fits that criteria to a tee, with the Wild officially making him the highest drafted Norweigan ever. His game is extremely projectable and translatable, which could get him selected higher than expected.
Comparison: Jake Neighbours. Nygard's one of the best two-way forwards in the draft. He's fast, he's physical, goes to the dangerous areas and is excellent defensively.
14. San Jose [from Pittsburgh]: Cole Eiserman, LW
In the past, they've taken talent with connections to Boston, with Eiserman being the latest. It gives either Celebrini or Will Smith a future triggerman to play on a line with. He's fallen a lot since the season started, as his play hasn't lined up with that of a top pick. That said, there's still potential there that the Sharks would love to open up.
Comparison: Brock Boeser. Eiserman's a pure shooter that does nothing but score goals. The bad news is that outside of shooting, there are concerns over his defensive play, compete and all-around play, which might see him stumble down the board.
15. Detroit: Beckett Sennecke, RW
Steve Yzerman tends to draft for size and skill with his first rounders. Sennecke is a perfect selection in that regard. Having an explosive, dominant performance during the OHL playoffs, he's been rocketing up the board, with the Wings drafting him here to boost their right wing depth.
Comparison: Drake Batherson. Sennecke's a big, strong winger that's got skill in playmaking and shooting. He's got upside as a top-six forward with a power element to his game.
16. St. Louis: Liam Greentree, RW/LW
Greentree feels quite in line with what St. Louis likes in their draft picks. If he's still on the board, it'd be hard for them to pass on him. Playing on a weaker team this year, he was a one-man unit, putting up excellent numbers on his own.
Comparison: Matt Boldy. Greentree's a big winger with skill. While he doesn't have the best wheels, he's got an offensive toolkit that he mixes with a power game, making him quite intriguing.
17. Washington: Michael Hage, C/LW
A late season surge could have Hage jumping up draft lists. For the Capitals, he adds skill and the potential to play center in a top-six role, which is something they'd love to add. He lost most of his pre-draft season and suffered painful loss at the start of the year, which could have slowed his early half. Thankfully, he came on strong near the end, which should be a huge boost to his stock.
Comparison: Martin Necas. I'm thinking he could be something a little like Necas. He's got decent size; skates well; has soft, skilled skilled; can play various roles; and has a little bit of bite in his game.
18. New York Islanders: Trevor Connelly, LW
A lot has been said about Connelly and his character concerns. However, a team ran by Lou Lamoriello, with Patrick Roy as head coach, seems more likely to take the risk. There's also a connection with Providence College that might lead Connelly in their direction.
Comparison: Jonathan Huderbeau. In terms of skill, Connelly may have top 10 level of talent -- he's fast, got great hands and the vision to be a top line winger. Those... issues that have been openly talked about in the usual media sources, though, could see a few teams pass on him.
19. Vegas: Igor Chernyshov, LW/RW
In their short history, Vegas usually takes whomever they feel is the best player left on the board. In this instance, a case is easily made for Chernyhov, who also brings a lot of things Vegas likes in their forwards -- namely size, skill and two-way competitiveness.
Comparison: Alex Tuch. He's got the profile of a throwback type of power winger. He throws his body around, has good offensive ability, can be a defensively effective winger and is particularly good on the rush.
20. Chicago [from Tampa Bay]: Andrew Basha, LW
If they go with Cayden Lindstrom for their first pick, they could keep him united with Andrew Basha. Basha's definitely someone that fits their mold of players with speed that they'd love to build around, giving them another future top-six winger.
Comparison: Gustav Nyquist. Basha's one of the speediest players in the draft, who can also provide plenty of playmaking accumen. There's top-six potential, perhaps becoming like a younger Gustav Nyquist, whose speed and playmaking ability was tantalizing.
21. Los Angeles: Emil Hemming, RW
He feels like someone the Kings would be interested in. A high-floor type of player that could jump into a 2nd line goal-scorer role, Hemming can complement some of their other skilled guys quite nicely. They've grabbed some Finns in previous years, so it may work here, as well.
Comparison: Kirill Marchenko. Hemming's got the size, skating and shooting ability to become a solid goal-scoring contributor that loves wiring pucks on net. There's top-six potential, as long as he keeps improving his game.
22. Nashville: Sacha Boisvert, C
With the Preds in need of center depth, they could take a chance on a guy such as Sacha Boisvert fairly early. With his combination of size and smarts, he seems destined to at least find a home in a middle-six.
Comparison: Joel Eriksson-Ek. Boisvert is a do-it-all type of center that may not be a speedster, but makes up for it with good shooting mechanics, two-way smarts and the ability to make things difficult for opposing players.
23. Toronto: Adam Jiricek, D
It was a rough year, rife with injury, for Jiricek. Things took an even worse turn when he got injured during the opening game at the World Juniors, which ended his season. As a result, he falls down the draft board, landing in the laps of the Leafs, who can add much-needed depth to their blueline with this pick. It's a good gamble to bet on someone that came into the season thought of as a top 5/10 talent.
Comparison: Cam Fowler. Jiricek, like Fowler, has good size, good speed and skating, moves pucks with ease and can provide a two-way, steadying style of game. There's definite top 4 upside.
24. Colorado: Terik Parascak, RW
Colorado could simply target the best player available, in their opinion. It might be Parascak, who'd give the Avs a high-IQ skilled winger that tore apart the WHL this past season, finishing near the top of the scoring standings.
Comparison: Jordan Eberle. Not the biggest or the fastest, Parascak uses a combination of skill and brains to produce. He loves scoring from the inside areas and can also be a complementary playmaking winger.
25. Ottawa [from Boston]: EJ Emery, D
Headed to the University of North Dakota, which is essentially the breeding ground for the Sens, EJ Emery feels like a good fit here. They're really in need of a defensively astute RHD and Emery fits that criteria perfectly. With both Buium and now Emery, the Sens blueline already gets a huge jolt of depth.
Comparison: Adam Pelech. Emery isn't going to be someone that'll be counted on for offensive production. He'll earn his merit by playing hard minutes, shutting down opponents and being good enough to move pucks out of his own zone.
26. Montreal [from Winnipeg]: Yegor Surin, RW/C
If they can't land Demidov, then they may as well try their hands on another Russian talent. One of the most relentless players in the draft, Yegor Surin fits their current trend of the style of players they're looking to add. Not only that, but he's been tremendous in the MHL playoffs, which should get him moving up boards.
Comparison: Nazem Kadri. Feisty as hell, Surin mixes both an agitation and grit game with excellent skill and playmaking. The fact that he's also capable of playing center also makes him useful.
27. Carolina: Jett Luchanko, C/RW
Luchanko just feels like the type of guy Carolina would select. He's a guy that's likely high on analytical scouting lists, which bodes well for Carolina potentially liking his style of game. Even better, it gives them more depth down the middle, with the likelihood he combats for a middle-six spot in the near future being relatively high.
Comparson: Matthew Poitras. Luchaneko's a skill, aggressive, gritty two-way playmaker that excels at both ends of the ice. He may not be the biggest, but he comes to play and will constantly battle and bring energy.
28. Calgary [from Vancouver]: Julius Miettinen, C/LW
Miettinen's enjoyed a late rise up draft boards. They certainly need an influx of centers in their system. In taking Miettinen, they're grabbing someone that can fill a role down the middle, playing an aggressive, frenetic game.
Comparison: Trent Frederic. He may not have huge upside, but he's fast, physical, good along the boards and can crash the net. Even if he develops into a 3rd line center, it's still a good role.
29. Anaheim [from Edmonton]: Cole Beaudoin, C/LW
Beaudoin seems like the type of player that the Ducks would covet at this range. He's got the size, well-rounded appeal and the versatility to play any role given to him. He's been rock-solid for Barrie this year and they feel he can bring the same style of game for them.
Comparison: Charlie Coyle. Probably not a high-end guy. Moreso a depth center/winger that can slot into various roles, play tons of minutes on a penalty kill, block shots, be a monster along the boards and do everything to will his team to victory.
30. New York Rangers: Dominik Badinka, D
I could see the Rangers fortifying their blueline with this selection. Badinka has potential to become a middle-pairing type of defender that can do a little of everything, which would be a nice add. The big Czech has looked good overseas, in the SHL, playing a calm, settling role.
Comparison: Brett Pesce. Badinka skates well, moves well, plays with pace and does everything just... right. Not a huge offensive guy, but he keeps pucks moving and has a nice shot. He should be a calm, steadying presence.
31. Philadelphia [from Florida]: Linus Eriksson, C/LW
Eriksson's been stampeding up the boards almost as fast as he skates. His second half of the year has been nothing short of fantastic, looking like a complete warrior on the ice. With the Flyers looking for centers, he'd make a nice addition in this range.
Comparison: Connor Zary. Eriksson's fast and tenacious, coming at you at full tilt. He'll bring a feisty, complementary style of game, doing all the small things to help his team win.
32. Dallas: Harrison Brunicke, D
With their ties to Kamloops, the Stars might jump on him earlier than expected. It gives their right side of defense some added depth and he fits into the Western Conference's mould of big, mobile defensemen. It he has a strong U18 tournament, he could move into first round consideration for multiple teams.
Comparison: Jake Muzzin. Originally hailing from South Africa, Brunicke's a big, raw defenseman that skates pretty fast, can play physical and was able to put up a good point total on a weaker team. He's an all-situations defenseman that'll need some seasoning, but there's potential.
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Round 2
33. San Jose: Charlie Elick, D
To kick off day 2, the Sharks could start by taking the big, punishing physical defenseman, Charlie Elick. He'd be the exact type of player that they'd love in their system.
Comparison: Adam Larsson. Elick's got the size, physicality and excellent mobility to be a guy that's potentially selected on day one. If not, someone is getting a nice shutdown, physical beast in the 2nd.
34. Chicago: Henry Mews, D
Mews has a chance to move into the first round if he has a good showing at the U18's. For now, I'll have the Blackhawks selecting him here. With their search for an offensive RHD, it kind of makes sense. After a slow start to the season, he picked it up in the second half, which has him pushing his way up lists.
Comparison: Vince Dunn. Mews is a mobile, offensive defenseman that mixes his combination of skating and playmaking skill to provide offense.
35. Anaheim: Will Skahan, D
Growing up a Ducks fan, with his father also being a strength and conditioning coach for them, bodes well for his chances of being selected here by the Ducks. He's one of the more physical shutdown defenders of the draft, which is right in line with what they tend to love.
Comparison: Brayden McNabb. Skahan's a big, mobile, physical shutdown defenseman. There's plenty of leadership skill and can be someone that delivers punishing checks, making life miserable for opponents.
36. Columbus: Dean Letourneau, C
Columbus has the option to pass this pick to the Flyers. However, I think they'll keep it, considering how high in the 2nd round it is. They may choose to select the monstrously-sized Dean Letourneau, who could go in the first. Coming directly from high school hockey, it's hard to get a true gauge on his upside, but the Jackets take the chance, hoping he becomes a dominant power center.
Comparison: Nick Bjugstad. Standing 6'6"/6'7', Letourneau could become a huge, skilled center. Injuries and coming from a weaker league might keep him out of the first, but there are plenty of tools that teams would love.
37. Winnipeg [from Montreal]: Ryder Ritchie, RW/LW
Ritchie had a rough season marred with injuries. The Jets could take him here to boost their winger depth, while also gambling on him as the best player available. They'll hope for a bounceback season next year.
Comparison: Jakub Vrana. Kind of similar to Vrana -- both battle injuries and have a high level of skill when they're on their game, while possibly battling inconsistency. They both have speed and an ability to wire pucks, too.
38. Utah: Matvei Gridin, RW
Taking a Russian that's already acclimated to playing in North America, the former Arizona Coyotes turned Utah [somethingsomethings] could grab Gridin. He had an offensively explosive ending to his season and teeters on the brink of being a first round selection.
Comparison: Alex Galchenyuk. Like Galchenyuk before he fell apart, Gridin's an all-offense winger. He shoots and handles pucks well and has top-six complementary upside.
39. Ottawa: Marek Vanacker, LW
After taking 2 defensemen in the first round, they aim their sights at a hard-working forward with some skill in Marek Vanacker. He's playing and developing locally in the OHL, which should allow them to easily track his development.
Comparison: Brandon Hagel. Vanacker has a bulldog-like mentality. He's got speed and pace, does a lot of hard working and lends a hand with the offense. There's middle-six complementary winger potential.
40. Seattle: Jesse Pulkkinen, D
It's a HUGE swing for the fence -- figuratively and literally. Pulkkinen's a big kid that skates remarkably well for his size. It wouldn't be the first time the Kraken laid their eyes on overagers, with Pulkkinen being the first of his kind off the board.
Comparison: He's kind of like... Tyler Myers and Michael Matheson, if that makes sense. Take the size and body of Myers and give him a Matheson skillset, in terms of his ability to skate and is an all-out attacker, for good and bad.
41. Calgary: Nikita Artamonov, RW/LW
If I recall correctly, Artamonov has the same agent as Andrei Kuzmenko, who is also with the Flames. Put two and two together, perhaps Calgary would be interested in him if he's still on the board.
Comparison: Michael Bunting. Artamonov's got one of the highest motors in the draft, while also being a defensively responsible kid with good playmaking and scoring output. There's midde-six and PP/PK upside.
42. San Jose [from New Jersey]: Alfons Freij, D
San Jose's no stranger to Swedes. In drafting Freij, they're getting a swift defenseman that can jump into the play and activate off the rush. It further ramps up their blueline, which should please GM Mike Grier.
Comparison: Filip Hronek. An offensive defenseman that can think, skate and move pucks at a swift pace. His defense can be a little to be desired, with his bread and butter being in puck movement and offense.
43. Buffalo: John Mustard, LW
A swift-skating power winger like Mustard seems exactly like what the Sabres could covet. It's a further boost to their growing winger depth, potentially going well with a center such as Berkly Catton, whom their first in the first round.
Comparison: Jason Zucker. Mustard's got the potential to become a fast moving, goal-scoring power winger that's not afraid to use his body. He's probably at his best coming down off the wings to score, while providing good two-way skill.
44. Pittsburgh [from Philadelphia]: Teddy Stiga, LW
The Penguins need more talent upfront. Stiga, while undersized, would perfectly jive with what Kyle Dubas is looking for. The energy and skill Stiga adds gives the Pens someone they view as a first round level of talent, happily sweeping him off the board at this point.
Comparison: Bryan Rust. Stiga's a Swiss Army knife type of player that absolutely doesn't stop moving his feet. He plays extremely hard, has a well-rounded toolset and can produce offense at a solid rate. A versatile attacker that can be placed anywhere within a top 9.
45. Minnesota: Leo Sahlin Wallenius, D
Wallenius would probably feel right at home in the Wild's organization, where a bevy of Swedish talent already reside. Wallenius's puck movement style of game seems like it'd run well with what the Wild are trying to build.
Comparison: Sean Durzi. Sahlin Wallenius is an all-situations, puck-moving defenseman. He transitions pucks well, plays a refined two-way game and can even lay the body.
46. Pittsburgh: Spencer Gill, D
In need of more projectable defensemen, the Pens go to the QMJHL, a league they've been familiar in drafting from, to select Spencer Gill. He's been on the rise, perhaps even jumping all the way into the first round. The Penguins could select him here, enjoying the size and well-rounded play he can bring.
Comparison: Marcus Pettersson. Gill's a steady, all-around defenseman that projects as a puck-moving guy with a good, accurate shot. He's someone that can work powerplay duty, while also keeping pucks in motion up ice.
47. Detroit: Lukas Fischer, D
Born in Michigan, Lukas's father is former Red Wing, Jiri Fischer. Drafting his son here is not only a great story, but also fits the type of player they strive to look for. At minimum, it keeps their blueline stocked.
Comparison: Brenden Dillon. On the younger side of the draft, Fischer's got excellent size, has room to grow some more and can be a physical, mobile defenseman. He could become a similar player in terms of his father -- a big, mobile, shutdown guy.
48. St. Louis: Stian Solberg, D
In need of more projectable defensemen, the Blues grab the Norweigan, Stian Solberg. His offense may not be high end, but his combination of physicality and skating could project him into a very useful defenseman for them, perfectly fitting into the style of game they tend to love.
Comparison: Radko Gudas. Solberg's a physically imposing defenseman that skates well and really lays into his checks. He has middle-pairing potential.
49. Utah [from Washington]: Kamil Bednarik, C
Grabbing a center to boost their depth, the former Coyotes take Bednarik, who's got a ceiling as a middle-six type. With Logan Cooley as their future #1, it's a wise move to pickup some depth down the middle.
Comparison: Ryan Hartman. Bednarik's a hard-working, energetic, gritty center with excellent two-way smarts and can even add some secondary scoring. The team of player you'd hate to play against.
50. New York Islanders: Lucas Pettersson, C/LW
Pettersson's the captain of the U18 Swedish team, so he has a chance to move up on the final mock, which is quite possible since he's rated as a first round talent in some places.
Comparison: Marcus Johansson. Pettersson's got plenty of speed and skill, which could help him push his way onto a roster. With plenty of leadership skill, along with playmaking ability, Pettersson's got potential to be a 2nd line forward in some function.
51. Philadelphia: Maxim Masse, RW
This is the extra pick that the Flyers receive from not signing Jay O'Brien. They use it on Maxim Masse, who might be a step down from Cutter Gauthier, but still brings a similar style of goal-scoring game.
Comparison: Yegor Sharangovich. Masse is a goal-scoring winger that'll work the danger areas in order to produce. A less than stellar first half left a bad taste, but he turned it on in the 2nd half, which could re-boost his stock.
52. Washington [from Vegas]: Colton Roberts, D
They head out west and grab big defenseman, Colton Roberts, in hopes of bolstering their RHD. They've been open to drafting from the WHL in the past and he seems like someone that'd be "their type". He's big, he's fast and he's got potential. They just need to see how he develops.
Comparison: Connor Murphy. Roberts is a tall, swift defenseman that plays with some fire, while simultaneously being able to puck pucks along. He's got use as a multi-purpose defenseman.
53. Nashville [from Tampa Bay]: Aron Kiviharju, D
Kiviharju came into the year highly sought after with expectations he'd be a top 10 pick. Unfortunately, his season went lopsided. He commenced things disorganized and inconsistent, unable to show what he did in the previous year. He then got injured for the entire season. Fortunately, he should be cleared for the U18's, with the Preds swinging for upside, banking on him regaining his form.
Comparison: Lubomir Visnovsky. The undersized Finnish defenseman is a silled, offensive defenseman. If he can return to form after his injuries, he should be able to play an offense-first, puck-moving style of game.
54. Chicago [from Los Angeles]: Sam O'Reilly, RW
Keeping in line with wanting to add support players to insolate Connor Bedard, Sam O'Reilly would be a food fit to be added to their core. Coming from a good London Knights system, he's someone with fire that can battle for pucks, making him a solid pickup.
Comparison: Nick Paul. O'Reilly's likely a well-rounded depth guy with two-way prowess and a strong work ethic. He's someone you can slot into any role, bringing a physical and dependable style no matter where you position him.
55. Nashville: Luke Misa, C/LW
Misa put up huge point totals in the OHL this year, which is likely enough for the Preds to take a long, hard look at him. They're on record of wanting kids with upside and he'd make a good swing for the fences type of selection at this point.
Comparison: Alex Kerfoot. Undersized, but blessed with blazing speed, Misa can be a skilled, versatile, playmakng forward with creativity, who can be slotted into multiple roles. His lack of size and strength could hold him back, there there's potential for him to at least become a skilled, speedy 3rd liner.
56. St. Louis [from Toronto]: Cole Hutson, D
Gone just before a potential reunification with his brother, Lane, Cole Hutson drops into a similar area that his brother was selected, all for no reason other than lack of size. That said, with Lane's early success after just 2 NHL games, it wouldn't shock me if it reflected well on Cole's draft number.
Comparison: Samuel Girard. Staning only 5'10", Hutson's an undersized, but fast moving and fast thninking puck mover.
57. Montreal [from Colorado]: Raoul Boilard, C/RW
Going local with a big center seems like it'd be a smart idea for the Habs. Boilard played down the lineup on his team's depth chart this year. Once he gets more time, it wouldn't be surprising to see him put up even bigger numbers.
Comparison: Morgan Geekie: Boilard's a two-way center with decent size. Already blessed with solid defensive skill, he can also add some offense to really round out his game even more.
58. Anaheim [from Boston]: Adam Jecho, RW/C
It's a huge swing, but with plenty of picks and a deep poll, the Ducks can afford it. Again, they use a pick on another sizeable player, liking Jecho's tools, hoping he can put everything together to become a pro at some point.
Comparison: Jesse Puljujarvi. It's undetermined just how high his ceiling is, but he could become a useful bottom-six that can use his size to work in the corners. He's very toolsy, to say the least.
59. Nashville [from Winnipeg]: Leon Muggli, D
A countrymate of Roman Josi, they hope that connection can unlock the potential residing in Muggli. They've likely done their diligence in scouting him and feel like he's a good addition to help rebuild their defensive core.
Comparison: Mikey Anderson. Muggli plays a very calm, focused game. He focuses on defense first, but also can move pucks well, including transitioning them out of his own zone and re-starting the attack.
60. Carolina: Tomas Galvas, D
Galvas has been absolutely tearing up the Czech Extraliga this year. He even detailed his prominence by looking like a solid offensive puck-mover at the WJC, coming in and performing quite well on little-to-no training camp. At this point, it wouldn't be out of the ordinary for the Canes to go for the big swing.
Comparison: Shayne Gostisbehere. Galvas is an offense-first defenseman, whose calling may leave a little more to be desired in his defensive end. Nonetheless, he's a smaller, yet highly skilled offensive defenseman wth upside.
61. Chicagp [from Vancouver]: Tanner Howe, LW
Having played together, and shown magic with, Bedard in the past, Howe could get selected by the Hawks here. If he's still on the board, it'd be hard to pass on reuniting them, in my opinion.
Comparison: Robby Fabbri. Howe's an undersized, yet extremely hard-working, versatile forward. He buzzes all over the ice and has potential to be slotted around the bottom-nine and special teams to be a net crashing presence.
62. Edmonton: Luca Marrelli, D
The Oilers might want to boost their defensive depth. Marrelli's looked like a solid defender in Oshawa and even has a chance to skyrocket up the boards after being named to Canada's U18 team.
Comparison: Artem Zub. I liken him something to Artem Zub, in that he's a calming, safe, dependable defenseman that makes a calm first pass and can do a little of everything, while optimally being a mid-pairing guy.
63. Seattle [from New York Rangers]: Miguel Marques, LW/RW
Taking a swing on talent late in the 2nd, the Kraken would be surprised to see Marques still on the board. The fact he wasn't invited to the U18's could see him slip, with the Kraken happy to take advantage of that.
Comparison: Conor Garland. Despite being undersized, Marques plays like a feisty, skilled power forward, hounding his way to the net, all while displaying creative hands, vision and nice shooting. There's a pest-like quality about him, which should be welcoming for the team that selects him.
64. Utah [from Florida]: Matvei Shuravin, D
They go back to Russia and take a chance on the big, defensive defenseman, Shuravin. In a perfect situation, he plays behind Simashev in the lineup, acclimating himself well with the other Russian talent they have coming in.
Comparison: Will Borgen. Shuravin's a stay-at-home type of defenseman that'll focus on his own end during deployment. He's got good size and can close gaps and angle out attackers with ease. A good complement to an offensive guy.
65. Calgary [from Dallas]: Justin Poirier, RW
If Poirier were any taller, he's likely someone that contends for a first round slot. Alas, he's lacking in size, standing only 5'8". They have his brother in their prospect, so they may as well take a chance on Justin, as well, loving his pure goal scoring.
Comparison: Viktor Arvidsson. Poirier's a tenacious, undesized scoring winger that loves putting pucks in the net. He drives hard to the goalie and he owns one helluva shot, focusing on his scoring ability.
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Round 3
66. Anaheim [from San Jose]: Melvin Fernstrom, RW
Coming from the same system as Leo Carlsson, the Ducks draft Fernstrom out of Orebro HK, looking for some inate chemistry. They've likely been able to see a lot of him, thinking he'd got upside.
Comparison: Tyler Bertuzzi. Fernstrom's a hard-working, goal-scoring winger with a big shot that adds a ton of energy to a lineup. Not only does he produce offense, but he can also be a bit of a shift disturber, making life difficult for the opposing goalie.
67. Chicago: Carson Wetsch, RW
Wetsch would be right in line with what they're looking to add to complement Bedard. He's a big power forward that can drop the gloves, as well as drop bodies. He'd bring some physicality to the Hawks's current smaller core.
Comparison: Will Cuylle. Profiling as a hard-working, hard-hitting power forward, Wetsch is someone that can cause havoc on the ice, much to the betterment of his own team.
68. Anaheim: Jacob Battaglia, RW
The Ducks continue building more depth on their wings, taking someone that fits their vision perfectly. He's another power winger and he'd be a great pickup within this range, fresh off a successful OHL campaign.
Comparison: Sammy Blais. Battaglia's got upside as a bottom-six power winger that works hard and play physical, using these tools to provide depth offense.
69. Columbus: Nathan Villeneuve, C
Aiming for more depth down the middle, they target Nathan Villeneuve, loving his energy. He got suspended during the year because of bounty hunting business about a player on another team -- and it could effect his stock. Otherwise, he'd be a nice very, valuable and smart selection here.
Comparison: Ross Colton. Villeneuve is an aggressive and rambunctious center that adds solid depth and energy down the middle.
70. Montreal: Jack Pridham, RW
Headed to Boston University, a program the Habs tend to love, Pridham feels like someone they'd greatly appeciate. The only thing that keeps him from being selected higher is the fact that he played in the BCHL, a weaker league, this past season.
Comparison: Josh Doan. He's a speedy power forward that can beat you with goal-scoring, power and speed. He works special teams and is someone that can lay the body.
71. Utah: Pavel Moysevich, G
My first goalie off the board might be a surprise. The big, Belarussian goaltender is an overager; but he seems very much in line with how the former Coyotes have been drafting. At the age of 19, he was one of the best goaltenders in the KHL and that could be good news in regards to his future.
Comparison: Jakob Markstrom. Moysevich is a huge goaltending prospect that's put up fantastic numbers in Russia this past year. He's smart and positions himself and his pads well to cut off the bottom of the net, using his overall size to be a netminder.
72. Chicago [from Ottawa]: Sebastian Soini, D
Boosting their RHD depth, the Hawks take a chance on Soini, who's looked good throughout the season. He could even boost his stock even further with the U18's. They take him here, hoping to strengthen their pool.
Comparison: Matt Roy. Mainly a defense-first guy, Soini's also got some puck-movement ability and can work as a well-rounded guy.
73. Seattle: Ollie Josephson, C/LW
Josephson fits into the speedy style of game that the Kraken employ. If they can get him in as a depth piece, he could be someone that shifts around their mid-to-bottom-six, proving to be a versatile player.
Comparison: JT Compher. Versatile and blessed with tons of speed, Josephson be great on a breakout, even if it' on a penalty kill. He's someone that works in a multitude of roles.
74. Calgary: Tomas Lavoie, D
Lavoie would the Flames a big RHD, which is something they're lacking. Once a first overall selection in the QMJHL, he's well worth a pick at this point, with the Flames hedging their bets on him putting all of his tools together.
Comparison: Dylan Samberg. Lavoie may not have the highest scoring upside but he definitely could become a big, tall, athletic defenseman that can do a little of everything. Perhaps he can excel at a depth, shutdown piece.
75. New Jersey: Simon Zether, C
Targeting Zether, it's a selection to try and boost their depth down the middle. It's an area that needs more depth and Zether could breakthrough and develop into a useful bottom-six type.
Comparison: Jesperi Kotkaniemi. Zether's got size and a well-rounded toolkit. He may need to work on his skating, but he's got a pretty high floor, even if his ceiling isn't elite.
76. Buffalo: Adam Kleber, D
Adding a big RHD could always be a smart option for the Sabres, liking Kleber's size and mobility combination. It gives their blueline added depth, which is always a plus, with Graves showing upside as a #4-7 type of defenseman.
Comparison: Ryan Graves. Kleber's got tremendous size -- he stands 6'5". He also has excellent mobility, makes a good pass and also owns some good on-ice defensive awareness.
77. Philadelphia: Max Plante, LW/RW
A pure skilled playmaker such as Plante might be a smart add for the Flyers, who'll want to add more skill to their core. They've traditionally liked American prospects, so drafting Plante is right up their alley.
Comparison: Jonatan Berggren. Plante's a pure playmaking skilled forward that's coming from the USNTDP. He can drive offense with his stickhandling and playmaking... but he's undersized, so it could be a problem at the pro level.
78. Montreal [from Minnesota]: Timur Kol, D
Going for another Russian, the Habs take a look at Timur Kol, especially liking his size and ability to play on either side of the ice. He's got some KHL experience under his belt, too. They feel he could be someone that they can give plenty of developmental time to.
Comparison: Justin Schultz. Kol's a big defenseman that mainly excel at providing offense from the blueline. Armed with a big point shot, good skating and offense, he's got upside as a mid-pairing guy.
79. Anaheim [from Pittsburgh]: Eriks Mateiko, LW
Grabbing a player from the Q, a league they've drafted from in the past, they grab Mateiko, giving them another sizeable prospect. Even if he just turns into a bottom-six power winger, there's still a lot to like about his game, fitting in well with what they're going for.
Comparison: Alexey Toropchenko. They both play a similar style of game, with Mateiko likely settling as a huge, 6'5" power winger that can do a bit of everything.
80. Detroit: Lucas Van Vliet, LW/C
A Michigan kid, who is also attending Michigan Stage in the fall, Van Vliet's been buried on a deep USNTDP squad. Given more time, it's certainly within reason to see him breakout and develop more offensive skill.
Comparison: Tanner Pearson. My best comparison for him is something like Pearson, who made the pros as a skilled winger that adds scoring in a secondary role. He's also versatile enough to play center, making him extra valuable.
81. St. Louis: Ben Danford, D
Adding a RHD defenseman might be an ideal situation. Danford's not someone that'll "wow" offensively, giving the Blues a player that'll work his hardest every shift and can be a heart and soul type. He could be a part of their penalty killing core in the future.
Comparison: Ian Cole. A shutdown style of defenseman, Danford blocks shots like a warrior, gives checks, works hard and can be a workhorse on a penalty kill.
82. Washington: Tarin Smith, D
Heading back to the WHL, the Capitals draft Tarin Smith, who seems to be going underscouted and under-ranked for some ungodly reason. He's got plenty of tools to make him at least a top 60 selection, yet scouts seem to be sleeping on him.
Comparison: Darren Raddysh. Raddysh, like Smith, was so vastly underrated that he even wasn't drafted. For Smith, though, he's likely to go, but they share some qualities in that they move and skate with pucks well, can provide some offense and can even play physical.
83. Toronto [from New York Islanders]: Ryerson Leenders, G
The Leafs could use another goaltender in their system. Leenders would be the best of the current bunch on the board, giving them an athletic guy that they can potentially build around.
Comparison: Jonathan Bernier. A highly athletic goalie, who may not have the huge size of the modern day goalie. His usefulness will be in his reflex ability and overall athleticism.
84. Vegas: Gabriel Eliasson, D
Vegas loves their smashers -- and smashing is what Eliasson does best. Having a tendency to enjoy their big, mobile, heavy defenders, Eliasson likely fits in well to their future plans, bringing his hard-hitting style to their core.
Comparison: Jani Haakanpaa. Eliasson plays a crash and bang style of game. He's one of the most physical players in the draft and is also ready, willing and able to drop his gloves to fight for his team.
85. San Jose [from Tampa Bay]: Jack Berglund, C/LW
In drafting Berglund, they're increasing the amount of Swedish talent they have in development, which is quite a few. Coming from pro bloodlines, he'd give San Jose another big Swede, which is something they tend to quite enjoy.
Comparison: Jack McBain. Big, physical, dependable at both ends and can bully his way to the net. Berglund could be someone that competes for a bottom-six role in the future.
86. Columbus [from Los Angeles]: Riley Patterson, LW/C
The Jackets need some more offense. Patterson would be good value in that regards here. After a slow start, he was able to get his game going as the season moved on, eventually showing the skill that was thought of him.
Comparison: Connor McMichael. A scoring forward that can play wing or center, who owns a really good release and has good speed. He's someone with potential to deliver secondary scoring.
87. Nashville: Colin Ralph, D
Coming from US prep school, there's some risk involved, with the Preds willing to take it. Wanting to boost their defensive stock, Ralph would add a big, mobile defenseman to their backend, something they'd probably quite enjoy.
Comparison: Michael Kesselring. Colin Ralph's a big American kid, who's more into the puck movement style of game. Whether he reaches his full potential remains to be seen, but there's upside.
88. Seattle [from Toronto]: Kasper Pikkarainen, RW
They may look at Pikkarainen in order to add some size and depth to their wings. If the big Finn looks good at the U18's, he could potentially boost his stock. For now, the Kraken take him in hopes of adding size to their wings.
Comparison: Taylor Raddysh. His skating may need some work, but he's got plenty of tools -- enough to be a complementary style of power winger with some skill.
89. Utah [from Colorado]: Brodie Ziemer, LW/RW
With a young team, Utah may want to take a chance on Ziemer, who oozes leadership. His frenetic style of play, along with his ability to take a team on his back, would go over well, especially with the team in flux as they move to Arizona.
Comparison: Ryan Callahan. A heart and soul type, Ziemer exemplifies the type of player that becomes a 3rd line'ish type of winger and works his ass off in order to maintain his spot in the lineup. A future candidate for captaincy.
90. Washington [from Boston]: Clarke Caswell, LW
Continuing their run on WHL talent, the Capitals scoop Clarke Caswell, a crafty and smart winger, off the board. Coming off an impressive playoff run, his draft stock is at a high, with the Caps thinking they can turn him into a useful player moving forward.
Comparison: Josh Bailey. Caswell has the potential to turn into something ala Josh Bailey. His skating isn't elite, instead using his hockey smarts and playmaking skill to play an adaptable two-way game.
91. New Jersey [from Winnipeg]: Eemil Vinni, G
In severe need of goaltending right now, they target Vinni, who's just been named as the #1 European goalie on Central Scouting's list. While he's not going to "save" them currently; in the long run, they'll hope he can work out.
Comparison: Filip Gustavsson. A goalie with good fundamentals and upside, Vinni needs some seasoning, but he's got potential to do all the right things that modern goalies excel at.
92. Carolina: Aatos Koivu, C/LW
Being the son of Saku Koivu, Aatos comes from a great bloodline. For Carolina, they've always shown a liking towards Finnish talent. Koivu might be a good selection at this point, liking the skill he can bring.
Comparison: Tommy Novek. Koivu's a versatile offensive forward that plays a very well-rounded game. Not only does he attack with good playmaking, but he's also armed with a pretty heavy shot from the faceoff dot.
93. Vancouver: Marcus Gidlof, G
With Thatcher Demko hurt during the playoffs, it's revealed a weakness in their goalie depth. As such, the Canucks are likely to go to an area they've well-scouted. In short, they head to Sweden, where they draft the monstrously large Marcus Gidlof. He's a little over the place in terms of rankings, but he's put up good numbers and seems like a good project to build upon.
Comparson: Adin Hill. Enormous in size, ala Hill, he's a kid that's very projectable, able to use his size to block out the net and carry a workload. With plenty of tools, he's someone worth investing in.
94. Utah [from Edmonton]: Ethan Procyszyn, C/RW
Ari-- Utah love players with size. Procyszyn seems like the type of big, character player they'd love to add to complement some of the skill guys they've gathered. His upside may not be high, but he's someone that can get the job done.
Comparison: Barclay Goodrow. Likely a heavy, defensive forward at the pro ranks, Procyszyn could become a bottom-six forward that can bowl over the competition, block shots, win faceoffs and work his behind off.
95. St. Louis [from New York Rangers]: Herman Traff, RW
For the record, Utah passes on the pick due to already owning a glut of picks. Therefore, it's handed over to the Blues, who take the big, Swedish winger, who seems like a good fit: Herman Traff. They seem to like their Swedes, having targeted a lot of Europeans in recent years. Traff is someone that puts up good underlying numbers and might have a future role in the organization.
Comparison: Morgan Barron. A sizeable, two-way winger that plays a solid game both in the opponent's end, including in his own zone. His size and smarts could make im a useful bottom-sixer/penalty killer at the pro level.
96. Florida: Niilopekka Muhonen, D
In the recent past, the Panthers have been a team that have enjoyed drafting Finns. Muhonen's big, mobile, physical style could fit in well with the type of game they play. It seems like a natural fit for both teams.
Comparison: Haydn Fleury. Muhonen's got the size and skating combo to make him a versatile and useful shutdown d-man. Maybe he turns into something ala Fleury, who likes to throw his body around.
97. Nashville [from Dallas]: Maximillian Curran, C
A pick to boost center depth. Right now, Curran's all potential and I could see the Predators being interested. Developing in the WHL, they can offer him the time to grow his game and get used to his bigger body.
Comparison: Eetu Luostarinen. More playmaker than shooter, Curran's a smart, tall center with touches of skill. A worthy gamble depending on where he's taken.
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Round 4
98. Utah [from San Jose]: Miroslav Satan, LW/RW
Phenomally large in size, Satan could see himself taken earlier than anticipated based on his mass alone. If someone such as Matthew Rempe has a good playoffs, you'll likely see monstrous players such as this take a rise.
Comparison: Matthew Rempe. As of now, Satan's number one toolset is his size and strength. The team that selects him is banking on him improving his poor skating, hoping he turns into a netfront power forward for them.
99. Nashville [from Chicago]: Veeti Vaisanen, D
At this point, Vaisanen is the best player left. Having some Finns already on their roster and in development, taking a chance on Vaisanen could be a smart move. Once thought of as a first rounder, he's been passed over, with Nashville taking a shot.
Comparison: Henri Jokiharju. His upside/ceiling may be capped, but there's no reason to see why he couldn't turn into a quite useful puck-moving, two-way guy in the future.
100. Anaheim: Hagen Burrows, RW
Straight off winning the "Mr. Hockey" Award for Minnesota hockey, Burrows's stock could be on the rise. If he's still here, the Ducks grab him here, feeling like he's got the size and upside they love to see in their picks.
Comparison: Mason Appleton. Burrows is a useful wing with good size that fires pucks as well as he passes them. He could have middle-six upside, if developed correctly.
101. Columbus: Christian Humphreys, C/RW
Coming into the season highly touted, Humphreys struggled to maintain his high ranking. As such, he falls into the third round, where the Blue Jackets take a chance on him. They'll like both his ability to play center and the fact that he's going to university in Michigan, hoping he can develop into a useful talent for them.
Comparison: Sam Steel. Mixing high IQ and some skill, Humphreys projects as an efficient forward that could be found somewhere in a team's bottom-nine some day. He positions himself well at both ends of the ice, using his smarts to get into place to make the smart play.
102. Montreal: Heikki Ruohonen, LW/C
The Habs are seemingly building a team that competes hard, specifically in playoffs action. Ruohonen is another guy that fits that mould of a hard-working, hard-competing forward that'll make life miserable for the opposing team. Therefore, he seems like a good swing.
Comparison: Warren Foegele. Ruohonen is fast, gritty, feisty and can be a physical force when on the ice. His upside may be limited to bottom-six, but he'll earn his minutes.
103. Utah: Daniil Ustinkov, D
A non-flashy defensean, Utah takes him here, feeling he could be the best player available. I know he's an analytics darling... so he could be selected earlier. He'd join fellow Swiss defenseman, JJ Moser, in the organization.
Comparison: Andrej Sekera. Ustinkov, who is of average size, likes to keep things safe, calm and simple. He's not the type to put up a huge offensive wave, but he does the small things to help his team.
104. Ottawa: Kieron Walton, LW
Getting their hands on a giant winger seems like something the Sens would like to do. He's playing in Sudbury, so they should be able to keep a close eye on his development. They'd love to see an Ontario kid breakthrough and contribute, in my opinion.
Comparison: Jordan Greenway. Huge in size, Walton's 6'5" and tends to use this as an advantage over opposing players.
105. Seattle: Ondrej Kos, LW
With the hopes of bolstering their winger depth, the Kraken can take the chance on Kos. Injuries put a damper on his season, yet they hope he can heal and get back to his style of game next season.
Comparison: Mathieu Joseph. There's potential for him to become a third line forward with speed and two-way, playmaking skill. He can work hard, make plays and is versatile in the roles given to him.
106. Calgary: Yegor Graf, C
Once more, the Flames grab another Russia. This time, it's Yegor Graf, who comes with hesitation due to his nationality and lack of size. On the other hand, he's got a good skillset, namely in the mould of a two-way player. It'd be worth the risk.
Comparison: JG Pageau. To me, he's kind of like a JG Pageau type. He's already pretty well-versed in terms of defensive ability, while also having a good shot and some offensive skill.
107. Calgary [from New Jersey]: Jakub Fibigr, D
It's simply a BPA type of selection, with the Flames liking what he could bring. You can never have enough puck-moves and Fibigr brings exactly that. If he performs well at the U18's, he could make a jump up draft boards.
Comparison: Alexandre Carrier. He makes a good first pass, plays an overall calm game and can be counted on to making good transitional plays and getting pucks up the ice.
108. Buffalo: Javon Moore, LW
Moore's another kid that's coming straight from the Minnesota high school system. As such, it's hard to get a good read on his true upside, talent and overall stock. If he's still on the board, though, I think the Sabres would find it hard to pass on him here. He's got the type of game they're in need of adding.
Comparison: Christian Fischer. I'm not totally sure of Moore's overall upside. Perhaps can become a solid, depth power winger with great speed and physical tools, including the ability to lay the body.
109. Buffalo [from Philadelphia]: Noel Fransen, D
The Swedish defenseman, Noel Fransen, is getting shafted by a lot of mainstream scouting services, but is still getting acclaim in internet scouts. Therefore, it's hard to get a good read on where he goes. For now, I'll have the Sabres taking him off the board, giving them another offensive defenseman that they can work with.
Comparison: Erik Gustafsson. Fransen can work a lot of magic on the point. He's capable of putting up good transition numbers and can aide a powerplay, putting a little risk in his overall game.
110. Minnesota: Thomas Mrsic, RW
Playing in Medicine Hat this past year, Mrsic's stock has been on the rise, thanks to his performance on a dynamic line with Andrew Basha and Cayden Lindstrom. The Wild might give him a shot, wanting to add some depth to their right wing, liking his scoring upside.
Comparison: Joshua Roy. Not the biggest or the fastest, Mrsic plays an efficient two-way game with some scoring upside.
111. Pittsburgh: AJ Spellacy, RW
A speed burner, Spellacy would fit in well with the type of possession game the Penguins are trying to implement. They see a future where they're able to slot him in... somewhere, even if it's in a bottom-six role.
Comparison: Andreas Athanasiou. A combination of size and speed, Spellacy is like a locomotive on skates. If his hands and brains catch up to his feet, he could be a very useful weapon.
112. Ottawa [from Detroit]: Nate Misskey, D
Passed over last year, Misskey's an overager that likely won't be passed over again. With the Sens needing immediate defensive depth, they may grab an overager such as Misskey in the late rounds in order to build defensive depth on their right side.
Comparison: Brett Kulak. He skates well, has a decent shot, track pucks well and brings a solid defensive game, complete with physicality. Overall, he's a well-rounded defenseman.
113. St. Louis: Roman Shokhrin, D
Standing 6'5", Shokrin's definitely someone that deserves to go higher. Alas, his Russian background could run him into trouble. Hoping to keep boosting their defensive stock, the Blues would be dumb to pass on him at this point.
Comparison: Scott Mayfield. Profiles as a tall, very mobile, shutdown defenseman with a good reach and some good hockey smarts.
114. Washington: Carter George, G
At this point, Carter George is definitely the best goaltender left on the board. The only thing keeping him from being drafted higher is his lack of size, which is a shame because he's positionally, and technically, very stong. The Caps could walk away with a steal if George is able to make it.
Comparison: Braden Holtby. George is an undersized, but technically sound goalie. He knows how to position himself for best possible outcomes.
115. New York Islanders: Alexandre Blais, LW
There's a Rimouski connection with Patrick Roy. They may push to get Blais taken by the Islanders to eventually get him coached by Roy, who'd have plenty of contacts and insight into how he could develop.
Comparison: Mathieu Perreault. Undersized, but with lots of speed, Blais displays a poised, skilled game. He can be someone that slips into various lines, using his intelligence and speed in multiple roles.
116. San Jose [from Vegas]: Mikhail Yegorov, G
Committed to Boston University, Yegorov fits right in with San Jose's pro-Boston connections style of drafting. Even better, he's got the size, durability and talent to push for a starter's role some day... as long as everything goes well.
Comparison: James Reimer. Playing on a weaker team this past year, the big Russian saw a lot of pucks flung his way. With his size and demeanor, it should give him hope at finding a role in the pros in the future.
117. Ottawa [from Tampa Bay]: Hiroki Gojsic, RW
The Sens have a history of loving their big, heavy forwards. Gojsic could be the latest to be added to the mix, having found good success in playing with Tij Iginla this season. With a boosted stock, he could find himself taken within the 4th round, which is big movement of the board.
Comparison: Brett Connolly. His skating is far from ideal; but he's got talent. Maybe not a bruiser, he'll try to play a more skilled game. It all depends on his his skating and overall smarts can get up to par.
118. Los Angeles: Oskar Vuollet, LW
After dominating at last year's Hlinka, his stock shot high up the board. However, he was a little inconsistent throughout the season... but still looked like a very serviceable mid-round project. He reminds me of someone the Kings could like.
Comparison: Fabian Zetterlund. Vuollet certainly isn't a big kid. Making up for his lack of size with hockey IQ, two-way smarts and excellent shooting ability, he kind of gives off a Zetterlund feel.
119. Nashville: Matvey Babenko, RW
A skilled Russian with a bomb of a shot, the Preds give him a chance, aiming their sights at upside. Their on record of wanting to take big swings. Well, with Babenko's 6'3" size, it's hard to come bigger.
Comparison: Denis Gurianov. A lot of Babenko's ability revolves around his hard shooting ability. Blessed with a lot of tools, especially in terms of size, he'll need to work on consistency and skating if he wants to "make it".
120. Toronto: Alexis Bernier, D
Again, the Leafs focus on defense, grabbing Alexis Bernier from the Q. They need to reformat their defensive structure, so filling in those gaps on defense should help to a point.
Comparison: Nick Jensen. Bernier's a mobile, highly intelligent defenseman that can do a little of everything. He's got mid-to-bottom pair potential, while also able to work special teams.
121. Colorado: Nicholas Kempf, G
Kempf would make a good boost to their goaltending stock. As the top goalie left on the board, he may even have a claim to being the best player left, as well. A worthy 4th round selection.
Comparison: Samuel Montembeault. An athletic goalie, with excellent reflexes, Kempf profiles as a quick, agile goalie that can get things done.
122. Boston: Alexander Zetterberg, C/LW
In terms of sheer talent, Zetterberg is likely on a first round level. His main drawback is his lack of size. That said, with the Bruins needing more skill and enjoying Swedish talent, they give him a chance, hoping he can keep developing.
Comparison: Tyler Johnson. Not the fastest, nor the largest, he still brings plenty of offensive, high IQ skill. Will it be enough to develop into a pro, though?
123. Winnipeg: Kim Saarinen, G
Loving their Finns, they grab the goaltender, Saarinen, who comes armed with plenty of weapons. They hope with the proper development and progress curve, he can take the reigns in the future. In seasonal play, he put up fantastic numbers and it should not get overlooked.
Comparison: Mackenzie Blackwood. Even with his large frame, consistency is the key with Saarinen. If he can put everything together, there could be a player with upside.
124. Carolina: Andrei Krutov, LW/RW
Krutov feels like one of those high-upside type of selections that Carolina likes to make. All that said, that is why they feel like a matching pair at this point. The 'Canes love making swing on Russian talent, with Krutov being the latest.
Comparison: Yegor Chinakhov. Krutov's not the biggest, but he's quite skilled and adaptable. While he plays an offensive style, he's also good enough defensively to work a penalty kill.
125. Vancouver: Miroslav Holinka, C/RW
Heading to Europe to boost their center depth, the Czech center, Holinka, seems like a good fit. At the bare minimum, his projectability as a bottom-six seems like a quality asset.
Comparison: Nick Bonino. A hard-working forward that pays good attention to details, Holinka's got a big shot and can be counted on to play a well-rounded game. A role player type.
126. Nashville [from Edmonton]: Topias Hynninen, LW
An easy claim can be made for Hynninen as the best player available. With more playing time, he should be able to develop his game as he progresses through developmental leagues.
Comparison: Andrew Cogliano. An undersized Finn that'll buzz around, force turnovers and come at you hard. He may be limited to a bottom-six role, but there's potential.
127. New York Rangers: John Whipple, D
The Rangers have been infamous for drafting from the USNTDP. Whipple is right within that range and is ripe for the taking, giving their defense another boost. If he's given the time, he might develop into a bottom-pairing defender that eats up penalty kill time.
Comparion: Zach Whitecloud. A reliable, stay-at-home type of defensemn, Whipple is someone that can play a dependable game in his own end, plays physical and does all the small things to help his team.
128. Ottawa [from Florida]: Jonathan Morello, C
An Ontario kid, it could give extra reasoning for the Sens to take a chance on him. He'll be attending college in America, which is a path they tend to like out of their prospects. They'll hope he can keep developing and breakout.
Comparison: Noah Cates. Morello's got decent size, lots of speed and potential to play a role at a pro-level. Coming from a weaker league, there are concerns, but they'll have faith in him pulling through.
129. Detroit [from Dallas]: Markus Loponen, C
The Wings take a chance on the gritty Loponen, bolstering their depth down the middle. If their European scouting likes him, they'd give their management team the thumbs up to draft him, feeling he'd be a great fit.
Comparison: Martin Pospisil. Loponen is a lot like Pospisil -- they both play hard, go hard to the net, work the corners, plays a gritty game and can make life miserable for opponents.
Key names still on the board, likely to go in the next round, or jump upwards in the final mock: Tory Pittner; Evan Gardner; Fyodor Avramov; Logan Sawyer; Petr Sikora; Darels Uljanskis; Anthony Romani; Daniel Nieminen; Mac Swanson; Gabriel Frasca; William McIsaac; Kevin He; Will Zellers; Hjalte Kruse Thomsen; Ilya Protas; Kam Hendrickson; Ilya Nabokov; Alexander Siryatsky; Noah Steen; Viggo Gustafson; Kirill Zarubin; Tyler Thorpe; Trent Swick; Jan Kavan; Mans Toresson; Luke Osborn; Chase Wutze; etc.
Anaheim:
---
4. Carter Yakemchuk, RD
29. Cole Beaudoin, C/LW
35. Will Skahan, LD
58. Adam Jecho, RW/C
66. Melvin Fernstrom, RW
68. Jacob Battagia, RW
79. Eriks Mateiko, LW
100. Hagen Burrows, RW
Boston:
---
122. Alexander Zetterberg, C/LW
Buffalo:
---
11. Berkly Catton, C/LW
43. John Mustard, LW
76. Adam Kleber, RD
108. Javon Moore, LW
109. Noel Franson, LD
Calgary:
---
9. Konsta Helenius, C/RW
28. Julius Miettinen, C/LW
41. Nikita Artamonov, RW/LW
65. Justin Poirier, RW
74. Tomas Lavoie, RD
106. Yegor Graf, C
107. Jakub Fibigr, LD
Carolina:
---
27. Jett Luchanko, C/RW
60. Tomas Galvas, LD
92. Aatos Koivu, C/LW
124. Andrei Krutov, LW/RW
Chicago:
---
3. Cayden Lindstrom, C/LW
20. Andrew Basha, LW
34. Henry Mews, RD
54. Sam O'Reilly, RW
67. Carson Wetsch, RW
72. Sebastian Soini, RD
Colorado:
---
24. Terik Parascak, RW
121. Nicholas Kempf, G
Columbus:
---
5. Artyom Levshunov, RD
36. Dean Letourneau, C
69. Nathan Villeneuve, C
86. Riley Patterson, LW/C
101. Christian Humphreys, C/RW
Dallas:
---
32. Harrison Brunicke, RD
Detroit:
---
15. Beckett Sennecke, RW
47. Lukas Fischer, LD
80. Lucas Van Vliet, LW/C
129. Markus Loponen, C
Edmonton:
---
62. Luca Marrelli, RD
Florida:
---
96. Niilopekka Muhonen, LD
Los Angeles:
---
21. Emil Hemming, RW
118. Oskar Vuollet, LW
Minnesota:
---
13. Michael Brandsegg-Nygard, RW
45. Leo Sahlin Wallenius, LD
110. Thoms Mrsic, RW
Montreal:
---
6. Tij Iginla, LW
26. Yegor Surin, RW/C
57. Raoul Boilard, C
70. Jack Pridham, RW
78. Timur Kol, LD
102. Heikki Ruohonen, C/LW
Nashville:
---
22. Sacha Boisvert, C
53. Aron Kiviharju, LD
55. Luke Misa, C/LW
59. Leon Muggli, LD
87. Colin Ralph, LD
97. Maximillian Curran, C
99. Veeti Vaisanen, LD
119. Matvei Babenko, RW
126. Topias Hynninen, LW
New Jersey:
---
10. Sam Dickinson, LD
75. Simon Zether, C
91. Eemil Vinni, G
New York Islanders:
---
18. Trevor Connelly, LW
50. Lucas Pettersson, C/LW
115. Alexandre Blais, LW
New York Rangers:
---
30. Dominik Badinka, RD
127. John Whipple, LD
Ottawa:
---
8. Zeev Buium, LD
25. EJ Emery, RD
39. Marek Vanacker, LW
104. Kieron Walton, LW
112. Nate Misskey, RD
117. Hiroki Gojsic, RW
128. Jonathan Morello, C
Philadelphia:
---
12. Anton Silayev, LD
31. Linus Eriksson, C/LW
51. Maxim Masse, RW
77. Max Plane, LW/RW
Pittsburgh:
---
44. Teddy Stiga, LW/C
46. Spencer Gill, RD
111. AJ Spellacy, RW
San Jose:
---
1. Macklin Celebrini, C
14. Cole Eiserman, LW
33. Charlie Elick, RD
42. Alfons Freij, LD
85. Jack Berglund, LW/C
116. Mikhail Yegorov, G
Seattle:
---
2. Ivan Demidov, RW
40. Jesse Pulkkinen, LD
63. Miguel Marques, LW/RW
73. Ollie Josephson, C/LW
88. Kasper Pikkarainen, RW
105. Ondrej Kos, LW
St. Louis:
---
16. Liam Greentree, RW/LW
48. Stian Solberg, LD
56. Cole Hutson, LD
81. Ben Danford, RD
95. Herman Traff, RW
113. Roman Shokhrin, LD
Tampa Bay:
---
--see you in round 5--
Toronto:
---
23. Adam Jiricek, RD
83. Ryerson Leenders, G
120. Alexis Bernier, RD
Utah:
---
7. Zayne Parekh, RD
38. Matvei Gridin, RW
49. Kamil Bednarik, C
64. Matvei Shuravin, LD
71. Pavel Moysevich, G
89. Brodie Ziemer, RW/LW
94. Ethan Procyszyn, C/RW
98. Miroslav Satan, LW
103. Daniil Ustinkov, LD
Vancouver:
---
93. Marcus Gidlof, G
125. Miroslav Holinka, C/RW
Vegas:
---
19. Igor Chernyshov, LW/RW
84. Gabriel Eliasson, LD
Washington:
---
17. Michael Hage, C
52. Colton Roberts, RD
82. Tarin Smith, LD
90. Clarke Caswell, LW
114. Carter George, G
Winnipeg:
---
37. Ryder Ritchie, RW
123. Kim Saarinen, G
- This is my spring mock. The draft order is based on my predicted playoff/Conference Finals winners, along with who I'm predicting wins the Cup. It's going to be 4 rounds, with a summary at the end.
For the record, I have the Rangers and Florida in the West, with Florida moving on. For the West, I have Dallas and Edmonton, with Dallas moving on. In the finals, I have the Panthers losing in back-to-back years, with Dallas coming out on top, winning the Championship.
- All notes and comparisons are mine. As always, I'm just a fan. I don't get to see every player or every game -- it'd be insane to think so. But I do like keeping up to date with draft year prospects. Also, of course: not every player comparison is going to be 100% accurate; and guys will bust and so on.
- Lottery winners, as per tankathon: 1. San Jose; 2. Seattle.
Round 1
1. San Jose: Macklin Celebrini, C
If the Sharks luck out and win the lottery, Celebrini is the obvious choice as >the guy< of the draft. Not only does he have local connections to the San Jose area, but he's also going to Boston University, with the Sharks having their own ties to Boston. It's the perfect fit for both sides, with Celebrini, the reigning Hobey Baker winner, a surefire bet to become the future top line center for San Jose.
Comparison: He's kind of like a mixture of Jonathan Toews and Joe Pavelski. He's got the leadership and two-way play of a Toews, making a difference at both ends of the ice. Meanwhile, he also has the grind-it-out, sniping game of a young Joe Pavelski, who just knows how to get pucks in the net.
2. Seattle: Ivan Demidov, RW
The Kraken would love to win the lottery and move up to draft an ultra-skilled player such as Demidov. He gives them an infusion of skill that they really need, fitting in really well with the type of system then run. More importantly, he would make a tremendous linemate for Matthew Beniers.
Comparison: Artemi Panarin.. An ultra-skilled Russian winger, Demidov caan be an offensive weapon that can equally shoot and pass the puck with tremendous skill. He's a game changer that can drive a line from the wing.
3. Chicago: Cayden Lindstrom, C/LW
Providing he receives a good bill of health at the combine, the Blackhawks would love to select Lindstrom at this point, hoping to surround Connor Bedard with some size and "beef". That said, he's missing the U18's and the concerns about his back injury could be perilous to his draft positioning, which could drop him down the board.
Comparison: Brady Tkachuk. Lindstrom's a prototypical power forward, who incidentally also plays center. As a shoot-first guy, who'll put up huge shots-on-goal numbers, while also playing with intensity and physicality.
4. Anaheim: Carter Yakemchuk, D
Last year, they went with "their guy". They could do the same here, taking a huge swing on talent and upside with Yakemchuk. After trading away Jamie Drysdale for Cutter Gauthier, it's left a hole on their right side of defense, which surely Yakemchuk could fill. With his size, elements of physicality and offensive upside, he'd make a perfect selection for them.
Comparison: Brent Burns. Yakemchuk's a big project. He's big, he's physical, provides tons of offensive skill and shots from the point. He reminds me of a younger, more raw version of Burns in the way he moves on the ice and in total upside.
5. Columbus: Artyom Levshunov, D
Even though they have David Jiricek and have a need for more centers, they could probably take the best player available. In this case, Levshunov is probably the top guy available, giving them someone that does his best work on a powerplay. There's a Michigan connection, there, too; with the Jackets often liking to draft from there.
Comparison: Zach Werenski, but with a little more physicality. Levshunov's a pure attacking defenseman with excellent size and skating, acting like a 4th forward on the ice. He loves peppering shots on the net and does in deep on the powerplay to try and help his team win.
6. Montreal: Tij Iginla, LW/RW
They seem to be pretty dead-set on taking a forward with their first pick, which makes me think they're high on Demidov, Lindstrom and Iginla in that order. Catton could be another guy; but their staff tends to pass on guys they consider smaller. As such, I think they take a shot at Iginla, rectifying passing on his father over a decade ago. He seems like someone their staff would absolutely love, thinking he'd make a fantastic addition to their top six. Of course, there's always a chance that Zayne Parekh turns into a huge star and makes them pay for passing on him... but we'll have to see!
Comparison: Zach Parise. While there are a lot of comparisons to his father, I don't think he has the pure power forward style as Jarome. Instead, he plays a more skilled game, but also loves getting on the inside, getting his nose dirty with some grinding. Therefore, maybe a super-grinder such as Parise is more apt, especially knowing that they both play a gutsy, skilled, two-way, volume shooter style of game.
7. Utah: Zayne Parekh, D
First of all, apologies in advance for all the times I'll surely accidentally type "Arizona" in this post. With that out of the way, I could see Utah loving Parekh, thinking he'd be a perfect addition to run their powerplay. They could even pair him with the calming influence of a Dmitri Simashev to reel him in, with Simashev allowing for Parekh to be unleashed offensively.
Comparison: A Mike Green/Erik Karlsson'ish type of defenseman. An absolute offensive dynamo from the backend, who can run powerplays with ease. Unfortunately, when it comes to the defensive game, it's when he runs into trouble. He's going to need a lot of developmental to work on this area... but the offense he can provide in terms of play-creation and getting pucks on net is incredible.
8. Ottawa: Zeev Buium, D
In a playoffs where he looked stellar, Buium's stock is likely be on the rise after helping the University of Denver to the NCAA championship. While the Sens would prefer a RHD, Buium would be difficult for them to pass on, thinking he's got future 1D potential.
Comparison: Mark Giordano. He reminds me of the the Mark Giordano of a decade or so ago. He's calm, composed, moves pucks well and plays a well-rounded game, adding a lot of offense from the blueline.
9. Calgary: Konsta Helenius, C/RW
Aleady playing against men in the Liiga over in Finland, Helenius oould be someone the Flames have an eye on. He'd fulfill their need for center, giving them a talented, all-around center that excels in many different situations.
Comparison: Nick Suzuki. To me, Helenius is kind of a Nick Suzuki clone. He's an all-IQ type of talent, knowing what to do and where to go to produce at both ends of the ice. He may not be the biggest, instead using his overall smarts to bring both offense and defense.
10. New Jersey: Sam Dickinson, D
Sam Dickinson may not fill a need for the Devils, but he's absolutely the best player on the board for them. The fact that he's made it this far is almost miraculous for them, furthering strengthening their already-stacked blueline. A future pairing of Dickinson-Luke Hughes would be absolutely dominant.
Comparison: Kaiden Guhle. Dickinson's a big, extremely mobile, versatile defenseman that's extremely well-rounded. He may not be equipped with elite offensive upside, but he can move pucks and shutdown opponents, playing a sound defensive game.
11. Buffalo: Berkly Catton, C/LW
After receiving Bowen Byram from Colorado in exchange for Casey Mittelstadt, they might be a little more set on defense. As such, they go for the next best choice, which would be Catton, whose analytics and numbers perfectly fit into the Sabres' plans. Just like how they were able to land Matt Savoie and Zach Benson, they're also able to grab Catton, who is a similar undersized skilled forward.
Comparison: Clayton Keller. Catton's not the biggest player, but he's ultra-skilled. At his best, he can be a playmaking wizard that also loves firing the puck, putting up a lot of offense and transition ability. His game is well-rounded, too, enabling him to potentially use his speed to kill you on a penalty kill.
12. Philadelphia: Anton Silayev, D
They were able to grab the falling Russian, Matvei Michkov, last year. This year, they can take a shot at Anton Silayev, who is the unicorn for this draft. Huge in size, he's likely selected anywhere from 2nd overall to mid-first. After a hot start, his offense dried out, resulting in some teams passing on him in favor of some other skilled forwards.
Comparison: Colton Parayko. Standing 6'7", Silayev's a towering Russian defenseman that plays a two-way game, with a long, active stick. For a man his size, he's got excellent skating, a long and active stick, plays with physicality and has potential to be a modern day shutdown defenseman.
13. Minnesota: Michael Brandsegg-Nygard, RW
The Wild might be interested in grabbing a player with good analytics, along with some size and grit. Nygard fits that criteria to a tee, with the Wild officially making him the highest drafted Norweigan ever. His game is extremely projectable and translatable, which could get him selected higher than expected.
Comparison: Jake Neighbours. Nygard's one of the best two-way forwards in the draft. He's fast, he's physical, goes to the dangerous areas and is excellent defensively.
14. San Jose [from Pittsburgh]: Cole Eiserman, LW
In the past, they've taken talent with connections to Boston, with Eiserman being the latest. It gives either Celebrini or Will Smith a future triggerman to play on a line with. He's fallen a lot since the season started, as his play hasn't lined up with that of a top pick. That said, there's still potential there that the Sharks would love to open up.
Comparison: Brock Boeser. Eiserman's a pure shooter that does nothing but score goals. The bad news is that outside of shooting, there are concerns over his defensive play, compete and all-around play, which might see him stumble down the board.
15. Detroit: Beckett Sennecke, RW
Steve Yzerman tends to draft for size and skill with his first rounders. Sennecke is a perfect selection in that regard. Having an explosive, dominant performance during the OHL playoffs, he's been rocketing up the board, with the Wings drafting him here to boost their right wing depth.
Comparison: Drake Batherson. Sennecke's a big, strong winger that's got skill in playmaking and shooting. He's got upside as a top-six forward with a power element to his game.
16. St. Louis: Liam Greentree, RW/LW
Greentree feels quite in line with what St. Louis likes in their draft picks. If he's still on the board, it'd be hard for them to pass on him. Playing on a weaker team this year, he was a one-man unit, putting up excellent numbers on his own.
Comparison: Matt Boldy. Greentree's a big winger with skill. While he doesn't have the best wheels, he's got an offensive toolkit that he mixes with a power game, making him quite intriguing.
17. Washington: Michael Hage, C/LW
A late season surge could have Hage jumping up draft lists. For the Capitals, he adds skill and the potential to play center in a top-six role, which is something they'd love to add. He lost most of his pre-draft season and suffered painful loss at the start of the year, which could have slowed his early half. Thankfully, he came on strong near the end, which should be a huge boost to his stock.
Comparison: Martin Necas. I'm thinking he could be something a little like Necas. He's got decent size; skates well; has soft, skilled skilled; can play various roles; and has a little bit of bite in his game.
18. New York Islanders: Trevor Connelly, LW
A lot has been said about Connelly and his character concerns. However, a team ran by Lou Lamoriello, with Patrick Roy as head coach, seems more likely to take the risk. There's also a connection with Providence College that might lead Connelly in their direction.
Comparison: Jonathan Huderbeau. In terms of skill, Connelly may have top 10 level of talent -- he's fast, got great hands and the vision to be a top line winger. Those... issues that have been openly talked about in the usual media sources, though, could see a few teams pass on him.
19. Vegas: Igor Chernyshov, LW/RW
In their short history, Vegas usually takes whomever they feel is the best player left on the board. In this instance, a case is easily made for Chernyhov, who also brings a lot of things Vegas likes in their forwards -- namely size, skill and two-way competitiveness.
Comparison: Alex Tuch. He's got the profile of a throwback type of power winger. He throws his body around, has good offensive ability, can be a defensively effective winger and is particularly good on the rush.
20. Chicago [from Tampa Bay]: Andrew Basha, LW
If they go with Cayden Lindstrom for their first pick, they could keep him united with Andrew Basha. Basha's definitely someone that fits their mold of players with speed that they'd love to build around, giving them another future top-six winger.
Comparison: Gustav Nyquist. Basha's one of the speediest players in the draft, who can also provide plenty of playmaking accumen. There's top-six potential, perhaps becoming like a younger Gustav Nyquist, whose speed and playmaking ability was tantalizing.
21. Los Angeles: Emil Hemming, RW
He feels like someone the Kings would be interested in. A high-floor type of player that could jump into a 2nd line goal-scorer role, Hemming can complement some of their other skilled guys quite nicely. They've grabbed some Finns in previous years, so it may work here, as well.
Comparison: Kirill Marchenko. Hemming's got the size, skating and shooting ability to become a solid goal-scoring contributor that loves wiring pucks on net. There's top-six potential, as long as he keeps improving his game.
22. Nashville: Sacha Boisvert, C
With the Preds in need of center depth, they could take a chance on a guy such as Sacha Boisvert fairly early. With his combination of size and smarts, he seems destined to at least find a home in a middle-six.
Comparison: Joel Eriksson-Ek. Boisvert is a do-it-all type of center that may not be a speedster, but makes up for it with good shooting mechanics, two-way smarts and the ability to make things difficult for opposing players.
23. Toronto: Adam Jiricek, D
It was a rough year, rife with injury, for Jiricek. Things took an even worse turn when he got injured during the opening game at the World Juniors, which ended his season. As a result, he falls down the draft board, landing in the laps of the Leafs, who can add much-needed depth to their blueline with this pick. It's a good gamble to bet on someone that came into the season thought of as a top 5/10 talent.
Comparison: Cam Fowler. Jiricek, like Fowler, has good size, good speed and skating, moves pucks with ease and can provide a two-way, steadying style of game. There's definite top 4 upside.
24. Colorado: Terik Parascak, RW
Colorado could simply target the best player available, in their opinion. It might be Parascak, who'd give the Avs a high-IQ skilled winger that tore apart the WHL this past season, finishing near the top of the scoring standings.
Comparison: Jordan Eberle. Not the biggest or the fastest, Parascak uses a combination of skill and brains to produce. He loves scoring from the inside areas and can also be a complementary playmaking winger.
25. Ottawa [from Boston]: EJ Emery, D
Headed to the University of North Dakota, which is essentially the breeding ground for the Sens, EJ Emery feels like a good fit here. They're really in need of a defensively astute RHD and Emery fits that criteria perfectly. With both Buium and now Emery, the Sens blueline already gets a huge jolt of depth.
Comparison: Adam Pelech. Emery isn't going to be someone that'll be counted on for offensive production. He'll earn his merit by playing hard minutes, shutting down opponents and being good enough to move pucks out of his own zone.
26. Montreal [from Winnipeg]: Yegor Surin, RW/C
If they can't land Demidov, then they may as well try their hands on another Russian talent. One of the most relentless players in the draft, Yegor Surin fits their current trend of the style of players they're looking to add. Not only that, but he's been tremendous in the MHL playoffs, which should get him moving up boards.
Comparison: Nazem Kadri. Feisty as hell, Surin mixes both an agitation and grit game with excellent skill and playmaking. The fact that he's also capable of playing center also makes him useful.
27. Carolina: Jett Luchanko, C/RW
Luchanko just feels like the type of guy Carolina would select. He's a guy that's likely high on analytical scouting lists, which bodes well for Carolina potentially liking his style of game. Even better, it gives them more depth down the middle, with the likelihood he combats for a middle-six spot in the near future being relatively high.
Comparson: Matthew Poitras. Luchaneko's a skill, aggressive, gritty two-way playmaker that excels at both ends of the ice. He may not be the biggest, but he comes to play and will constantly battle and bring energy.
28. Calgary [from Vancouver]: Julius Miettinen, C/LW
Miettinen's enjoyed a late rise up draft boards. They certainly need an influx of centers in their system. In taking Miettinen, they're grabbing someone that can fill a role down the middle, playing an aggressive, frenetic game.
Comparison: Trent Frederic. He may not have huge upside, but he's fast, physical, good along the boards and can crash the net. Even if he develops into a 3rd line center, it's still a good role.
29. Anaheim [from Edmonton]: Cole Beaudoin, C/LW
Beaudoin seems like the type of player that the Ducks would covet at this range. He's got the size, well-rounded appeal and the versatility to play any role given to him. He's been rock-solid for Barrie this year and they feel he can bring the same style of game for them.
Comparison: Charlie Coyle. Probably not a high-end guy. Moreso a depth center/winger that can slot into various roles, play tons of minutes on a penalty kill, block shots, be a monster along the boards and do everything to will his team to victory.
30. New York Rangers: Dominik Badinka, D
I could see the Rangers fortifying their blueline with this selection. Badinka has potential to become a middle-pairing type of defender that can do a little of everything, which would be a nice add. The big Czech has looked good overseas, in the SHL, playing a calm, settling role.
Comparison: Brett Pesce. Badinka skates well, moves well, plays with pace and does everything just... right. Not a huge offensive guy, but he keeps pucks moving and has a nice shot. He should be a calm, steadying presence.
31. Philadelphia [from Florida]: Linus Eriksson, C/LW
Eriksson's been stampeding up the boards almost as fast as he skates. His second half of the year has been nothing short of fantastic, looking like a complete warrior on the ice. With the Flyers looking for centers, he'd make a nice addition in this range.
Comparison: Connor Zary. Eriksson's fast and tenacious, coming at you at full tilt. He'll bring a feisty, complementary style of game, doing all the small things to help his team win.
32. Dallas: Harrison Brunicke, D
With their ties to Kamloops, the Stars might jump on him earlier than expected. It gives their right side of defense some added depth and he fits into the Western Conference's mould of big, mobile defensemen. It he has a strong U18 tournament, he could move into first round consideration for multiple teams.
Comparison: Jake Muzzin. Originally hailing from South Africa, Brunicke's a big, raw defenseman that skates pretty fast, can play physical and was able to put up a good point total on a weaker team. He's an all-situations defenseman that'll need some seasoning, but there's potential.
======
Round 2
33. San Jose: Charlie Elick, D
To kick off day 2, the Sharks could start by taking the big, punishing physical defenseman, Charlie Elick. He'd be the exact type of player that they'd love in their system.
Comparison: Adam Larsson. Elick's got the size, physicality and excellent mobility to be a guy that's potentially selected on day one. If not, someone is getting a nice shutdown, physical beast in the 2nd.
34. Chicago: Henry Mews, D
Mews has a chance to move into the first round if he has a good showing at the U18's. For now, I'll have the Blackhawks selecting him here. With their search for an offensive RHD, it kind of makes sense. After a slow start to the season, he picked it up in the second half, which has him pushing his way up lists.
Comparison: Vince Dunn. Mews is a mobile, offensive defenseman that mixes his combination of skating and playmaking skill to provide offense.
35. Anaheim: Will Skahan, D
Growing up a Ducks fan, with his father also being a strength and conditioning coach for them, bodes well for his chances of being selected here by the Ducks. He's one of the more physical shutdown defenders of the draft, which is right in line with what they tend to love.
Comparison: Brayden McNabb. Skahan's a big, mobile, physical shutdown defenseman. There's plenty of leadership skill and can be someone that delivers punishing checks, making life miserable for opponents.
36. Columbus: Dean Letourneau, C
Columbus has the option to pass this pick to the Flyers. However, I think they'll keep it, considering how high in the 2nd round it is. They may choose to select the monstrously-sized Dean Letourneau, who could go in the first. Coming directly from high school hockey, it's hard to get a true gauge on his upside, but the Jackets take the chance, hoping he becomes a dominant power center.
Comparison: Nick Bjugstad. Standing 6'6"/6'7', Letourneau could become a huge, skilled center. Injuries and coming from a weaker league might keep him out of the first, but there are plenty of tools that teams would love.
37. Winnipeg [from Montreal]: Ryder Ritchie, RW/LW
Ritchie had a rough season marred with injuries. The Jets could take him here to boost their winger depth, while also gambling on him as the best player available. They'll hope for a bounceback season next year.
Comparison: Jakub Vrana. Kind of similar to Vrana -- both battle injuries and have a high level of skill when they're on their game, while possibly battling inconsistency. They both have speed and an ability to wire pucks, too.
38. Utah: Matvei Gridin, RW
Taking a Russian that's already acclimated to playing in North America, the former Arizona Coyotes turned Utah [somethingsomethings] could grab Gridin. He had an offensively explosive ending to his season and teeters on the brink of being a first round selection.
Comparison: Alex Galchenyuk. Like Galchenyuk before he fell apart, Gridin's an all-offense winger. He shoots and handles pucks well and has top-six complementary upside.
39. Ottawa: Marek Vanacker, LW
After taking 2 defensemen in the first round, they aim their sights at a hard-working forward with some skill in Marek Vanacker. He's playing and developing locally in the OHL, which should allow them to easily track his development.
Comparison: Brandon Hagel. Vanacker has a bulldog-like mentality. He's got speed and pace, does a lot of hard working and lends a hand with the offense. There's middle-six complementary winger potential.
40. Seattle: Jesse Pulkkinen, D
It's a HUGE swing for the fence -- figuratively and literally. Pulkkinen's a big kid that skates remarkably well for his size. It wouldn't be the first time the Kraken laid their eyes on overagers, with Pulkkinen being the first of his kind off the board.
Comparison: He's kind of like... Tyler Myers and Michael Matheson, if that makes sense. Take the size and body of Myers and give him a Matheson skillset, in terms of his ability to skate and is an all-out attacker, for good and bad.
41. Calgary: Nikita Artamonov, RW/LW
If I recall correctly, Artamonov has the same agent as Andrei Kuzmenko, who is also with the Flames. Put two and two together, perhaps Calgary would be interested in him if he's still on the board.
Comparison: Michael Bunting. Artamonov's got one of the highest motors in the draft, while also being a defensively responsible kid with good playmaking and scoring output. There's midde-six and PP/PK upside.
42. San Jose [from New Jersey]: Alfons Freij, D
San Jose's no stranger to Swedes. In drafting Freij, they're getting a swift defenseman that can jump into the play and activate off the rush. It further ramps up their blueline, which should please GM Mike Grier.
Comparison: Filip Hronek. An offensive defenseman that can think, skate and move pucks at a swift pace. His defense can be a little to be desired, with his bread and butter being in puck movement and offense.
43. Buffalo: John Mustard, LW
A swift-skating power winger like Mustard seems exactly like what the Sabres could covet. It's a further boost to their growing winger depth, potentially going well with a center such as Berkly Catton, whom their first in the first round.
Comparison: Jason Zucker. Mustard's got the potential to become a fast moving, goal-scoring power winger that's not afraid to use his body. He's probably at his best coming down off the wings to score, while providing good two-way skill.
44. Pittsburgh [from Philadelphia]: Teddy Stiga, LW
The Penguins need more talent upfront. Stiga, while undersized, would perfectly jive with what Kyle Dubas is looking for. The energy and skill Stiga adds gives the Pens someone they view as a first round level of talent, happily sweeping him off the board at this point.
Comparison: Bryan Rust. Stiga's a Swiss Army knife type of player that absolutely doesn't stop moving his feet. He plays extremely hard, has a well-rounded toolset and can produce offense at a solid rate. A versatile attacker that can be placed anywhere within a top 9.
45. Minnesota: Leo Sahlin Wallenius, D
Wallenius would probably feel right at home in the Wild's organization, where a bevy of Swedish talent already reside. Wallenius's puck movement style of game seems like it'd run well with what the Wild are trying to build.
Comparison: Sean Durzi. Sahlin Wallenius is an all-situations, puck-moving defenseman. He transitions pucks well, plays a refined two-way game and can even lay the body.
46. Pittsburgh: Spencer Gill, D
In need of more projectable defensemen, the Pens go to the QMJHL, a league they've been familiar in drafting from, to select Spencer Gill. He's been on the rise, perhaps even jumping all the way into the first round. The Penguins could select him here, enjoying the size and well-rounded play he can bring.
Comparison: Marcus Pettersson. Gill's a steady, all-around defenseman that projects as a puck-moving guy with a good, accurate shot. He's someone that can work powerplay duty, while also keeping pucks in motion up ice.
47. Detroit: Lukas Fischer, D
Born in Michigan, Lukas's father is former Red Wing, Jiri Fischer. Drafting his son here is not only a great story, but also fits the type of player they strive to look for. At minimum, it keeps their blueline stocked.
Comparison: Brenden Dillon. On the younger side of the draft, Fischer's got excellent size, has room to grow some more and can be a physical, mobile defenseman. He could become a similar player in terms of his father -- a big, mobile, shutdown guy.
48. St. Louis: Stian Solberg, D
In need of more projectable defensemen, the Blues grab the Norweigan, Stian Solberg. His offense may not be high end, but his combination of physicality and skating could project him into a very useful defenseman for them, perfectly fitting into the style of game they tend to love.
Comparison: Radko Gudas. Solberg's a physically imposing defenseman that skates well and really lays into his checks. He has middle-pairing potential.
49. Utah [from Washington]: Kamil Bednarik, C
Grabbing a center to boost their depth, the former Coyotes take Bednarik, who's got a ceiling as a middle-six type. With Logan Cooley as their future #1, it's a wise move to pickup some depth down the middle.
Comparison: Ryan Hartman. Bednarik's a hard-working, energetic, gritty center with excellent two-way smarts and can even add some secondary scoring. The team of player you'd hate to play against.
50. New York Islanders: Lucas Pettersson, C/LW
Pettersson's the captain of the U18 Swedish team, so he has a chance to move up on the final mock, which is quite possible since he's rated as a first round talent in some places.
Comparison: Marcus Johansson. Pettersson's got plenty of speed and skill, which could help him push his way onto a roster. With plenty of leadership skill, along with playmaking ability, Pettersson's got potential to be a 2nd line forward in some function.
51. Philadelphia: Maxim Masse, RW
This is the extra pick that the Flyers receive from not signing Jay O'Brien. They use it on Maxim Masse, who might be a step down from Cutter Gauthier, but still brings a similar style of goal-scoring game.
Comparison: Yegor Sharangovich. Masse is a goal-scoring winger that'll work the danger areas in order to produce. A less than stellar first half left a bad taste, but he turned it on in the 2nd half, which could re-boost his stock.
52. Washington [from Vegas]: Colton Roberts, D
They head out west and grab big defenseman, Colton Roberts, in hopes of bolstering their RHD. They've been open to drafting from the WHL in the past and he seems like someone that'd be "their type". He's big, he's fast and he's got potential. They just need to see how he develops.
Comparison: Connor Murphy. Roberts is a tall, swift defenseman that plays with some fire, while simultaneously being able to puck pucks along. He's got use as a multi-purpose defenseman.
53. Nashville [from Tampa Bay]: Aron Kiviharju, D
Kiviharju came into the year highly sought after with expectations he'd be a top 10 pick. Unfortunately, his season went lopsided. He commenced things disorganized and inconsistent, unable to show what he did in the previous year. He then got injured for the entire season. Fortunately, he should be cleared for the U18's, with the Preds swinging for upside, banking on him regaining his form.
Comparison: Lubomir Visnovsky. The undersized Finnish defenseman is a silled, offensive defenseman. If he can return to form after his injuries, he should be able to play an offense-first, puck-moving style of game.
54. Chicago [from Los Angeles]: Sam O'Reilly, RW
Keeping in line with wanting to add support players to insolate Connor Bedard, Sam O'Reilly would be a food fit to be added to their core. Coming from a good London Knights system, he's someone with fire that can battle for pucks, making him a solid pickup.
Comparison: Nick Paul. O'Reilly's likely a well-rounded depth guy with two-way prowess and a strong work ethic. He's someone you can slot into any role, bringing a physical and dependable style no matter where you position him.
55. Nashville: Luke Misa, C/LW
Misa put up huge point totals in the OHL this year, which is likely enough for the Preds to take a long, hard look at him. They're on record of wanting kids with upside and he'd make a good swing for the fences type of selection at this point.
Comparison: Alex Kerfoot. Undersized, but blessed with blazing speed, Misa can be a skilled, versatile, playmakng forward with creativity, who can be slotted into multiple roles. His lack of size and strength could hold him back, there there's potential for him to at least become a skilled, speedy 3rd liner.
56. St. Louis [from Toronto]: Cole Hutson, D
Gone just before a potential reunification with his brother, Lane, Cole Hutson drops into a similar area that his brother was selected, all for no reason other than lack of size. That said, with Lane's early success after just 2 NHL games, it wouldn't shock me if it reflected well on Cole's draft number.
Comparison: Samuel Girard. Staning only 5'10", Hutson's an undersized, but fast moving and fast thninking puck mover.
57. Montreal [from Colorado]: Raoul Boilard, C/RW
Going local with a big center seems like it'd be a smart idea for the Habs. Boilard played down the lineup on his team's depth chart this year. Once he gets more time, it wouldn't be surprising to see him put up even bigger numbers.
Comparison: Morgan Geekie: Boilard's a two-way center with decent size. Already blessed with solid defensive skill, he can also add some offense to really round out his game even more.
58. Anaheim [from Boston]: Adam Jecho, RW/C
It's a huge swing, but with plenty of picks and a deep poll, the Ducks can afford it. Again, they use a pick on another sizeable player, liking Jecho's tools, hoping he can put everything together to become a pro at some point.
Comparison: Jesse Puljujarvi. It's undetermined just how high his ceiling is, but he could become a useful bottom-six that can use his size to work in the corners. He's very toolsy, to say the least.
59. Nashville [from Winnipeg]: Leon Muggli, D
A countrymate of Roman Josi, they hope that connection can unlock the potential residing in Muggli. They've likely done their diligence in scouting him and feel like he's a good addition to help rebuild their defensive core.
Comparison: Mikey Anderson. Muggli plays a very calm, focused game. He focuses on defense first, but also can move pucks well, including transitioning them out of his own zone and re-starting the attack.
60. Carolina: Tomas Galvas, D
Galvas has been absolutely tearing up the Czech Extraliga this year. He even detailed his prominence by looking like a solid offensive puck-mover at the WJC, coming in and performing quite well on little-to-no training camp. At this point, it wouldn't be out of the ordinary for the Canes to go for the big swing.
Comparison: Shayne Gostisbehere. Galvas is an offense-first defenseman, whose calling may leave a little more to be desired in his defensive end. Nonetheless, he's a smaller, yet highly skilled offensive defenseman wth upside.
61. Chicagp [from Vancouver]: Tanner Howe, LW
Having played together, and shown magic with, Bedard in the past, Howe could get selected by the Hawks here. If he's still on the board, it'd be hard to pass on reuniting them, in my opinion.
Comparison: Robby Fabbri. Howe's an undersized, yet extremely hard-working, versatile forward. He buzzes all over the ice and has potential to be slotted around the bottom-nine and special teams to be a net crashing presence.
62. Edmonton: Luca Marrelli, D
The Oilers might want to boost their defensive depth. Marrelli's looked like a solid defender in Oshawa and even has a chance to skyrocket up the boards after being named to Canada's U18 team.
Comparison: Artem Zub. I liken him something to Artem Zub, in that he's a calming, safe, dependable defenseman that makes a calm first pass and can do a little of everything, while optimally being a mid-pairing guy.
63. Seattle [from New York Rangers]: Miguel Marques, LW/RW
Taking a swing on talent late in the 2nd, the Kraken would be surprised to see Marques still on the board. The fact he wasn't invited to the U18's could see him slip, with the Kraken happy to take advantage of that.
Comparison: Conor Garland. Despite being undersized, Marques plays like a feisty, skilled power forward, hounding his way to the net, all while displaying creative hands, vision and nice shooting. There's a pest-like quality about him, which should be welcoming for the team that selects him.
64. Utah [from Florida]: Matvei Shuravin, D
They go back to Russia and take a chance on the big, defensive defenseman, Shuravin. In a perfect situation, he plays behind Simashev in the lineup, acclimating himself well with the other Russian talent they have coming in.
Comparison: Will Borgen. Shuravin's a stay-at-home type of defenseman that'll focus on his own end during deployment. He's got good size and can close gaps and angle out attackers with ease. A good complement to an offensive guy.
65. Calgary [from Dallas]: Justin Poirier, RW
If Poirier were any taller, he's likely someone that contends for a first round slot. Alas, he's lacking in size, standing only 5'8". They have his brother in their prospect, so they may as well take a chance on Justin, as well, loving his pure goal scoring.
Comparison: Viktor Arvidsson. Poirier's a tenacious, undesized scoring winger that loves putting pucks in the net. He drives hard to the goalie and he owns one helluva shot, focusing on his scoring ability.
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Round 3
66. Anaheim [from San Jose]: Melvin Fernstrom, RW
Coming from the same system as Leo Carlsson, the Ducks draft Fernstrom out of Orebro HK, looking for some inate chemistry. They've likely been able to see a lot of him, thinking he'd got upside.
Comparison: Tyler Bertuzzi. Fernstrom's a hard-working, goal-scoring winger with a big shot that adds a ton of energy to a lineup. Not only does he produce offense, but he can also be a bit of a shift disturber, making life difficult for the opposing goalie.
67. Chicago: Carson Wetsch, RW
Wetsch would be right in line with what they're looking to add to complement Bedard. He's a big power forward that can drop the gloves, as well as drop bodies. He'd bring some physicality to the Hawks's current smaller core.
Comparison: Will Cuylle. Profiling as a hard-working, hard-hitting power forward, Wetsch is someone that can cause havoc on the ice, much to the betterment of his own team.
68. Anaheim: Jacob Battaglia, RW
The Ducks continue building more depth on their wings, taking someone that fits their vision perfectly. He's another power winger and he'd be a great pickup within this range, fresh off a successful OHL campaign.
Comparison: Sammy Blais. Battaglia's got upside as a bottom-six power winger that works hard and play physical, using these tools to provide depth offense.
69. Columbus: Nathan Villeneuve, C
Aiming for more depth down the middle, they target Nathan Villeneuve, loving his energy. He got suspended during the year because of bounty hunting business about a player on another team -- and it could effect his stock. Otherwise, he'd be a nice very, valuable and smart selection here.
Comparison: Ross Colton. Villeneuve is an aggressive and rambunctious center that adds solid depth and energy down the middle.
70. Montreal: Jack Pridham, RW
Headed to Boston University, a program the Habs tend to love, Pridham feels like someone they'd greatly appeciate. The only thing that keeps him from being selected higher is the fact that he played in the BCHL, a weaker league, this past season.
Comparison: Josh Doan. He's a speedy power forward that can beat you with goal-scoring, power and speed. He works special teams and is someone that can lay the body.
71. Utah: Pavel Moysevich, G
My first goalie off the board might be a surprise. The big, Belarussian goaltender is an overager; but he seems very much in line with how the former Coyotes have been drafting. At the age of 19, he was one of the best goaltenders in the KHL and that could be good news in regards to his future.
Comparison: Jakob Markstrom. Moysevich is a huge goaltending prospect that's put up fantastic numbers in Russia this past year. He's smart and positions himself and his pads well to cut off the bottom of the net, using his overall size to be a netminder.
72. Chicago [from Ottawa]: Sebastian Soini, D
Boosting their RHD depth, the Hawks take a chance on Soini, who's looked good throughout the season. He could even boost his stock even further with the U18's. They take him here, hoping to strengthen their pool.
Comparison: Matt Roy. Mainly a defense-first guy, Soini's also got some puck-movement ability and can work as a well-rounded guy.
73. Seattle: Ollie Josephson, C/LW
Josephson fits into the speedy style of game that the Kraken employ. If they can get him in as a depth piece, he could be someone that shifts around their mid-to-bottom-six, proving to be a versatile player.
Comparison: JT Compher. Versatile and blessed with tons of speed, Josephson be great on a breakout, even if it' on a penalty kill. He's someone that works in a multitude of roles.
74. Calgary: Tomas Lavoie, D
Lavoie would the Flames a big RHD, which is something they're lacking. Once a first overall selection in the QMJHL, he's well worth a pick at this point, with the Flames hedging their bets on him putting all of his tools together.
Comparison: Dylan Samberg. Lavoie may not have the highest scoring upside but he definitely could become a big, tall, athletic defenseman that can do a little of everything. Perhaps he can excel at a depth, shutdown piece.
75. New Jersey: Simon Zether, C
Targeting Zether, it's a selection to try and boost their depth down the middle. It's an area that needs more depth and Zether could breakthrough and develop into a useful bottom-six type.
Comparison: Jesperi Kotkaniemi. Zether's got size and a well-rounded toolkit. He may need to work on his skating, but he's got a pretty high floor, even if his ceiling isn't elite.
76. Buffalo: Adam Kleber, D
Adding a big RHD could always be a smart option for the Sabres, liking Kleber's size and mobility combination. It gives their blueline added depth, which is always a plus, with Graves showing upside as a #4-7 type of defenseman.
Comparison: Ryan Graves. Kleber's got tremendous size -- he stands 6'5". He also has excellent mobility, makes a good pass and also owns some good on-ice defensive awareness.
77. Philadelphia: Max Plante, LW/RW
A pure skilled playmaker such as Plante might be a smart add for the Flyers, who'll want to add more skill to their core. They've traditionally liked American prospects, so drafting Plante is right up their alley.
Comparison: Jonatan Berggren. Plante's a pure playmaking skilled forward that's coming from the USNTDP. He can drive offense with his stickhandling and playmaking... but he's undersized, so it could be a problem at the pro level.
78. Montreal [from Minnesota]: Timur Kol, D
Going for another Russian, the Habs take a look at Timur Kol, especially liking his size and ability to play on either side of the ice. He's got some KHL experience under his belt, too. They feel he could be someone that they can give plenty of developmental time to.
Comparison: Justin Schultz. Kol's a big defenseman that mainly excel at providing offense from the blueline. Armed with a big point shot, good skating and offense, he's got upside as a mid-pairing guy.
79. Anaheim [from Pittsburgh]: Eriks Mateiko, LW
Grabbing a player from the Q, a league they've drafted from in the past, they grab Mateiko, giving them another sizeable prospect. Even if he just turns into a bottom-six power winger, there's still a lot to like about his game, fitting in well with what they're going for.
Comparison: Alexey Toropchenko. They both play a similar style of game, with Mateiko likely settling as a huge, 6'5" power winger that can do a bit of everything.
80. Detroit: Lucas Van Vliet, LW/C
A Michigan kid, who is also attending Michigan Stage in the fall, Van Vliet's been buried on a deep USNTDP squad. Given more time, it's certainly within reason to see him breakout and develop more offensive skill.
Comparison: Tanner Pearson. My best comparison for him is something like Pearson, who made the pros as a skilled winger that adds scoring in a secondary role. He's also versatile enough to play center, making him extra valuable.
81. St. Louis: Ben Danford, D
Adding a RHD defenseman might be an ideal situation. Danford's not someone that'll "wow" offensively, giving the Blues a player that'll work his hardest every shift and can be a heart and soul type. He could be a part of their penalty killing core in the future.
Comparison: Ian Cole. A shutdown style of defenseman, Danford blocks shots like a warrior, gives checks, works hard and can be a workhorse on a penalty kill.
82. Washington: Tarin Smith, D
Heading back to the WHL, the Capitals draft Tarin Smith, who seems to be going underscouted and under-ranked for some ungodly reason. He's got plenty of tools to make him at least a top 60 selection, yet scouts seem to be sleeping on him.
Comparison: Darren Raddysh. Raddysh, like Smith, was so vastly underrated that he even wasn't drafted. For Smith, though, he's likely to go, but they share some qualities in that they move and skate with pucks well, can provide some offense and can even play physical.
83. Toronto [from New York Islanders]: Ryerson Leenders, G
The Leafs could use another goaltender in their system. Leenders would be the best of the current bunch on the board, giving them an athletic guy that they can potentially build around.
Comparison: Jonathan Bernier. A highly athletic goalie, who may not have the huge size of the modern day goalie. His usefulness will be in his reflex ability and overall athleticism.
84. Vegas: Gabriel Eliasson, D
Vegas loves their smashers -- and smashing is what Eliasson does best. Having a tendency to enjoy their big, mobile, heavy defenders, Eliasson likely fits in well to their future plans, bringing his hard-hitting style to their core.
Comparison: Jani Haakanpaa. Eliasson plays a crash and bang style of game. He's one of the most physical players in the draft and is also ready, willing and able to drop his gloves to fight for his team.
85. San Jose [from Tampa Bay]: Jack Berglund, C/LW
In drafting Berglund, they're increasing the amount of Swedish talent they have in development, which is quite a few. Coming from pro bloodlines, he'd give San Jose another big Swede, which is something they tend to quite enjoy.
Comparison: Jack McBain. Big, physical, dependable at both ends and can bully his way to the net. Berglund could be someone that competes for a bottom-six role in the future.
86. Columbus [from Los Angeles]: Riley Patterson, LW/C
The Jackets need some more offense. Patterson would be good value in that regards here. After a slow start, he was able to get his game going as the season moved on, eventually showing the skill that was thought of him.
Comparison: Connor McMichael. A scoring forward that can play wing or center, who owns a really good release and has good speed. He's someone with potential to deliver secondary scoring.
87. Nashville: Colin Ralph, D
Coming from US prep school, there's some risk involved, with the Preds willing to take it. Wanting to boost their defensive stock, Ralph would add a big, mobile defenseman to their backend, something they'd probably quite enjoy.
Comparison: Michael Kesselring. Colin Ralph's a big American kid, who's more into the puck movement style of game. Whether he reaches his full potential remains to be seen, but there's upside.
88. Seattle [from Toronto]: Kasper Pikkarainen, RW
They may look at Pikkarainen in order to add some size and depth to their wings. If the big Finn looks good at the U18's, he could potentially boost his stock. For now, the Kraken take him in hopes of adding size to their wings.
Comparison: Taylor Raddysh. His skating may need some work, but he's got plenty of tools -- enough to be a complementary style of power winger with some skill.
89. Utah [from Colorado]: Brodie Ziemer, LW/RW
With a young team, Utah may want to take a chance on Ziemer, who oozes leadership. His frenetic style of play, along with his ability to take a team on his back, would go over well, especially with the team in flux as they move to Arizona.
Comparison: Ryan Callahan. A heart and soul type, Ziemer exemplifies the type of player that becomes a 3rd line'ish type of winger and works his ass off in order to maintain his spot in the lineup. A future candidate for captaincy.
90. Washington [from Boston]: Clarke Caswell, LW
Continuing their run on WHL talent, the Capitals scoop Clarke Caswell, a crafty and smart winger, off the board. Coming off an impressive playoff run, his draft stock is at a high, with the Caps thinking they can turn him into a useful player moving forward.
Comparison: Josh Bailey. Caswell has the potential to turn into something ala Josh Bailey. His skating isn't elite, instead using his hockey smarts and playmaking skill to play an adaptable two-way game.
91. New Jersey [from Winnipeg]: Eemil Vinni, G
In severe need of goaltending right now, they target Vinni, who's just been named as the #1 European goalie on Central Scouting's list. While he's not going to "save" them currently; in the long run, they'll hope he can work out.
Comparison: Filip Gustavsson. A goalie with good fundamentals and upside, Vinni needs some seasoning, but he's got potential to do all the right things that modern goalies excel at.
92. Carolina: Aatos Koivu, C/LW
Being the son of Saku Koivu, Aatos comes from a great bloodline. For Carolina, they've always shown a liking towards Finnish talent. Koivu might be a good selection at this point, liking the skill he can bring.
Comparison: Tommy Novek. Koivu's a versatile offensive forward that plays a very well-rounded game. Not only does he attack with good playmaking, but he's also armed with a pretty heavy shot from the faceoff dot.
93. Vancouver: Marcus Gidlof, G
With Thatcher Demko hurt during the playoffs, it's revealed a weakness in their goalie depth. As such, the Canucks are likely to go to an area they've well-scouted. In short, they head to Sweden, where they draft the monstrously large Marcus Gidlof. He's a little over the place in terms of rankings, but he's put up good numbers and seems like a good project to build upon.
Comparson: Adin Hill. Enormous in size, ala Hill, he's a kid that's very projectable, able to use his size to block out the net and carry a workload. With plenty of tools, he's someone worth investing in.
94. Utah [from Edmonton]: Ethan Procyszyn, C/RW
Ari-- Utah love players with size. Procyszyn seems like the type of big, character player they'd love to add to complement some of the skill guys they've gathered. His upside may not be high, but he's someone that can get the job done.
Comparison: Barclay Goodrow. Likely a heavy, defensive forward at the pro ranks, Procyszyn could become a bottom-six forward that can bowl over the competition, block shots, win faceoffs and work his behind off.
95. St. Louis [from New York Rangers]: Herman Traff, RW
For the record, Utah passes on the pick due to already owning a glut of picks. Therefore, it's handed over to the Blues, who take the big, Swedish winger, who seems like a good fit: Herman Traff. They seem to like their Swedes, having targeted a lot of Europeans in recent years. Traff is someone that puts up good underlying numbers and might have a future role in the organization.
Comparison: Morgan Barron. A sizeable, two-way winger that plays a solid game both in the opponent's end, including in his own zone. His size and smarts could make im a useful bottom-sixer/penalty killer at the pro level.
96. Florida: Niilopekka Muhonen, D
In the recent past, the Panthers have been a team that have enjoyed drafting Finns. Muhonen's big, mobile, physical style could fit in well with the type of game they play. It seems like a natural fit for both teams.
Comparison: Haydn Fleury. Muhonen's got the size and skating combo to make him a versatile and useful shutdown d-man. Maybe he turns into something ala Fleury, who likes to throw his body around.
97. Nashville [from Dallas]: Maximillian Curran, C
A pick to boost center depth. Right now, Curran's all potential and I could see the Predators being interested. Developing in the WHL, they can offer him the time to grow his game and get used to his bigger body.
Comparison: Eetu Luostarinen. More playmaker than shooter, Curran's a smart, tall center with touches of skill. A worthy gamble depending on where he's taken.
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Round 4
98. Utah [from San Jose]: Miroslav Satan, LW/RW
Phenomally large in size, Satan could see himself taken earlier than anticipated based on his mass alone. If someone such as Matthew Rempe has a good playoffs, you'll likely see monstrous players such as this take a rise.
Comparison: Matthew Rempe. As of now, Satan's number one toolset is his size and strength. The team that selects him is banking on him improving his poor skating, hoping he turns into a netfront power forward for them.
99. Nashville [from Chicago]: Veeti Vaisanen, D
At this point, Vaisanen is the best player left. Having some Finns already on their roster and in development, taking a chance on Vaisanen could be a smart move. Once thought of as a first rounder, he's been passed over, with Nashville taking a shot.
Comparison: Henri Jokiharju. His upside/ceiling may be capped, but there's no reason to see why he couldn't turn into a quite useful puck-moving, two-way guy in the future.
100. Anaheim: Hagen Burrows, RW
Straight off winning the "Mr. Hockey" Award for Minnesota hockey, Burrows's stock could be on the rise. If he's still here, the Ducks grab him here, feeling like he's got the size and upside they love to see in their picks.
Comparison: Mason Appleton. Burrows is a useful wing with good size that fires pucks as well as he passes them. He could have middle-six upside, if developed correctly.
101. Columbus: Christian Humphreys, C/RW
Coming into the season highly touted, Humphreys struggled to maintain his high ranking. As such, he falls into the third round, where the Blue Jackets take a chance on him. They'll like both his ability to play center and the fact that he's going to university in Michigan, hoping he can develop into a useful talent for them.
Comparison: Sam Steel. Mixing high IQ and some skill, Humphreys projects as an efficient forward that could be found somewhere in a team's bottom-nine some day. He positions himself well at both ends of the ice, using his smarts to get into place to make the smart play.
102. Montreal: Heikki Ruohonen, LW/C
The Habs are seemingly building a team that competes hard, specifically in playoffs action. Ruohonen is another guy that fits that mould of a hard-working, hard-competing forward that'll make life miserable for the opposing team. Therefore, he seems like a good swing.
Comparison: Warren Foegele. Ruohonen is fast, gritty, feisty and can be a physical force when on the ice. His upside may be limited to bottom-six, but he'll earn his minutes.
103. Utah: Daniil Ustinkov, D
A non-flashy defensean, Utah takes him here, feeling he could be the best player available. I know he's an analytics darling... so he could be selected earlier. He'd join fellow Swiss defenseman, JJ Moser, in the organization.
Comparison: Andrej Sekera. Ustinkov, who is of average size, likes to keep things safe, calm and simple. He's not the type to put up a huge offensive wave, but he does the small things to help his team.
104. Ottawa: Kieron Walton, LW
Getting their hands on a giant winger seems like something the Sens would like to do. He's playing in Sudbury, so they should be able to keep a close eye on his development. They'd love to see an Ontario kid breakthrough and contribute, in my opinion.
Comparison: Jordan Greenway. Huge in size, Walton's 6'5" and tends to use this as an advantage over opposing players.
105. Seattle: Ondrej Kos, LW
With the hopes of bolstering their winger depth, the Kraken can take the chance on Kos. Injuries put a damper on his season, yet they hope he can heal and get back to his style of game next season.
Comparison: Mathieu Joseph. There's potential for him to become a third line forward with speed and two-way, playmaking skill. He can work hard, make plays and is versatile in the roles given to him.
106. Calgary: Yegor Graf, C
Once more, the Flames grab another Russia. This time, it's Yegor Graf, who comes with hesitation due to his nationality and lack of size. On the other hand, he's got a good skillset, namely in the mould of a two-way player. It'd be worth the risk.
Comparison: JG Pageau. To me, he's kind of like a JG Pageau type. He's already pretty well-versed in terms of defensive ability, while also having a good shot and some offensive skill.
107. Calgary [from New Jersey]: Jakub Fibigr, D
It's simply a BPA type of selection, with the Flames liking what he could bring. You can never have enough puck-moves and Fibigr brings exactly that. If he performs well at the U18's, he could make a jump up draft boards.
Comparison: Alexandre Carrier. He makes a good first pass, plays an overall calm game and can be counted on to making good transitional plays and getting pucks up the ice.
108. Buffalo: Javon Moore, LW
Moore's another kid that's coming straight from the Minnesota high school system. As such, it's hard to get a good read on his true upside, talent and overall stock. If he's still on the board, though, I think the Sabres would find it hard to pass on him here. He's got the type of game they're in need of adding.
Comparison: Christian Fischer. I'm not totally sure of Moore's overall upside. Perhaps can become a solid, depth power winger with great speed and physical tools, including the ability to lay the body.
109. Buffalo [from Philadelphia]: Noel Fransen, D
The Swedish defenseman, Noel Fransen, is getting shafted by a lot of mainstream scouting services, but is still getting acclaim in internet scouts. Therefore, it's hard to get a good read on where he goes. For now, I'll have the Sabres taking him off the board, giving them another offensive defenseman that they can work with.
Comparison: Erik Gustafsson. Fransen can work a lot of magic on the point. He's capable of putting up good transition numbers and can aide a powerplay, putting a little risk in his overall game.
110. Minnesota: Thomas Mrsic, RW
Playing in Medicine Hat this past year, Mrsic's stock has been on the rise, thanks to his performance on a dynamic line with Andrew Basha and Cayden Lindstrom. The Wild might give him a shot, wanting to add some depth to their right wing, liking his scoring upside.
Comparison: Joshua Roy. Not the biggest or the fastest, Mrsic plays an efficient two-way game with some scoring upside.
111. Pittsburgh: AJ Spellacy, RW
A speed burner, Spellacy would fit in well with the type of possession game the Penguins are trying to implement. They see a future where they're able to slot him in... somewhere, even if it's in a bottom-six role.
Comparison: Andreas Athanasiou. A combination of size and speed, Spellacy is like a locomotive on skates. If his hands and brains catch up to his feet, he could be a very useful weapon.
112. Ottawa [from Detroit]: Nate Misskey, D
Passed over last year, Misskey's an overager that likely won't be passed over again. With the Sens needing immediate defensive depth, they may grab an overager such as Misskey in the late rounds in order to build defensive depth on their right side.
Comparison: Brett Kulak. He skates well, has a decent shot, track pucks well and brings a solid defensive game, complete with physicality. Overall, he's a well-rounded defenseman.
113. St. Louis: Roman Shokhrin, D
Standing 6'5", Shokrin's definitely someone that deserves to go higher. Alas, his Russian background could run him into trouble. Hoping to keep boosting their defensive stock, the Blues would be dumb to pass on him at this point.
Comparison: Scott Mayfield. Profiles as a tall, very mobile, shutdown defenseman with a good reach and some good hockey smarts.
114. Washington: Carter George, G
At this point, Carter George is definitely the best goaltender left on the board. The only thing keeping him from being drafted higher is his lack of size, which is a shame because he's positionally, and technically, very stong. The Caps could walk away with a steal if George is able to make it.
Comparison: Braden Holtby. George is an undersized, but technically sound goalie. He knows how to position himself for best possible outcomes.
115. New York Islanders: Alexandre Blais, LW
There's a Rimouski connection with Patrick Roy. They may push to get Blais taken by the Islanders to eventually get him coached by Roy, who'd have plenty of contacts and insight into how he could develop.
Comparison: Mathieu Perreault. Undersized, but with lots of speed, Blais displays a poised, skilled game. He can be someone that slips into various lines, using his intelligence and speed in multiple roles.
116. San Jose [from Vegas]: Mikhail Yegorov, G
Committed to Boston University, Yegorov fits right in with San Jose's pro-Boston connections style of drafting. Even better, he's got the size, durability and talent to push for a starter's role some day... as long as everything goes well.
Comparison: James Reimer. Playing on a weaker team this past year, the big Russian saw a lot of pucks flung his way. With his size and demeanor, it should give him hope at finding a role in the pros in the future.
117. Ottawa [from Tampa Bay]: Hiroki Gojsic, RW
The Sens have a history of loving their big, heavy forwards. Gojsic could be the latest to be added to the mix, having found good success in playing with Tij Iginla this season. With a boosted stock, he could find himself taken within the 4th round, which is big movement of the board.
Comparison: Brett Connolly. His skating is far from ideal; but he's got talent. Maybe not a bruiser, he'll try to play a more skilled game. It all depends on his his skating and overall smarts can get up to par.
118. Los Angeles: Oskar Vuollet, LW
After dominating at last year's Hlinka, his stock shot high up the board. However, he was a little inconsistent throughout the season... but still looked like a very serviceable mid-round project. He reminds me of someone the Kings could like.
Comparison: Fabian Zetterlund. Vuollet certainly isn't a big kid. Making up for his lack of size with hockey IQ, two-way smarts and excellent shooting ability, he kind of gives off a Zetterlund feel.
119. Nashville: Matvey Babenko, RW
A skilled Russian with a bomb of a shot, the Preds give him a chance, aiming their sights at upside. Their on record of wanting to take big swings. Well, with Babenko's 6'3" size, it's hard to come bigger.
Comparison: Denis Gurianov. A lot of Babenko's ability revolves around his hard shooting ability. Blessed with a lot of tools, especially in terms of size, he'll need to work on consistency and skating if he wants to "make it".
120. Toronto: Alexis Bernier, D
Again, the Leafs focus on defense, grabbing Alexis Bernier from the Q. They need to reformat their defensive structure, so filling in those gaps on defense should help to a point.
Comparison: Nick Jensen. Bernier's a mobile, highly intelligent defenseman that can do a little of everything. He's got mid-to-bottom pair potential, while also able to work special teams.
121. Colorado: Nicholas Kempf, G
Kempf would make a good boost to their goaltending stock. As the top goalie left on the board, he may even have a claim to being the best player left, as well. A worthy 4th round selection.
Comparison: Samuel Montembeault. An athletic goalie, with excellent reflexes, Kempf profiles as a quick, agile goalie that can get things done.
122. Boston: Alexander Zetterberg, C/LW
In terms of sheer talent, Zetterberg is likely on a first round level. His main drawback is his lack of size. That said, with the Bruins needing more skill and enjoying Swedish talent, they give him a chance, hoping he can keep developing.
Comparison: Tyler Johnson. Not the fastest, nor the largest, he still brings plenty of offensive, high IQ skill. Will it be enough to develop into a pro, though?
123. Winnipeg: Kim Saarinen, G
Loving their Finns, they grab the goaltender, Saarinen, who comes armed with plenty of weapons. They hope with the proper development and progress curve, he can take the reigns in the future. In seasonal play, he put up fantastic numbers and it should not get overlooked.
Comparison: Mackenzie Blackwood. Even with his large frame, consistency is the key with Saarinen. If he can put everything together, there could be a player with upside.
124. Carolina: Andrei Krutov, LW/RW
Krutov feels like one of those high-upside type of selections that Carolina likes to make. All that said, that is why they feel like a matching pair at this point. The 'Canes love making swing on Russian talent, with Krutov being the latest.
Comparison: Yegor Chinakhov. Krutov's not the biggest, but he's quite skilled and adaptable. While he plays an offensive style, he's also good enough defensively to work a penalty kill.
125. Vancouver: Miroslav Holinka, C/RW
Heading to Europe to boost their center depth, the Czech center, Holinka, seems like a good fit. At the bare minimum, his projectability as a bottom-six seems like a quality asset.
Comparison: Nick Bonino. A hard-working forward that pays good attention to details, Holinka's got a big shot and can be counted on to play a well-rounded game. A role player type.
126. Nashville [from Edmonton]: Topias Hynninen, LW
An easy claim can be made for Hynninen as the best player available. With more playing time, he should be able to develop his game as he progresses through developmental leagues.
Comparison: Andrew Cogliano. An undersized Finn that'll buzz around, force turnovers and come at you hard. He may be limited to a bottom-six role, but there's potential.
127. New York Rangers: John Whipple, D
The Rangers have been infamous for drafting from the USNTDP. Whipple is right within that range and is ripe for the taking, giving their defense another boost. If he's given the time, he might develop into a bottom-pairing defender that eats up penalty kill time.
Comparion: Zach Whitecloud. A reliable, stay-at-home type of defensemn, Whipple is someone that can play a dependable game in his own end, plays physical and does all the small things to help his team.
128. Ottawa [from Florida]: Jonathan Morello, C
An Ontario kid, it could give extra reasoning for the Sens to take a chance on him. He'll be attending college in America, which is a path they tend to like out of their prospects. They'll hope he can keep developing and breakout.
Comparison: Noah Cates. Morello's got decent size, lots of speed and potential to play a role at a pro-level. Coming from a weaker league, there are concerns, but they'll have faith in him pulling through.
129. Detroit [from Dallas]: Markus Loponen, C
The Wings take a chance on the gritty Loponen, bolstering their depth down the middle. If their European scouting likes him, they'd give their management team the thumbs up to draft him, feeling he'd be a great fit.
Comparison: Martin Pospisil. Loponen is a lot like Pospisil -- they both play hard, go hard to the net, work the corners, plays a gritty game and can make life miserable for opponents.
Key names still on the board, likely to go in the next round, or jump upwards in the final mock: Tory Pittner; Evan Gardner; Fyodor Avramov; Logan Sawyer; Petr Sikora; Darels Uljanskis; Anthony Romani; Daniel Nieminen; Mac Swanson; Gabriel Frasca; William McIsaac; Kevin He; Will Zellers; Hjalte Kruse Thomsen; Ilya Protas; Kam Hendrickson; Ilya Nabokov; Alexander Siryatsky; Noah Steen; Viggo Gustafson; Kirill Zarubin; Tyler Thorpe; Trent Swick; Jan Kavan; Mans Toresson; Luke Osborn; Chase Wutze; etc.
Anaheim:
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4. Carter Yakemchuk, RD
29. Cole Beaudoin, C/LW
35. Will Skahan, LD
58. Adam Jecho, RW/C
66. Melvin Fernstrom, RW
68. Jacob Battagia, RW
79. Eriks Mateiko, LW
100. Hagen Burrows, RW
Boston:
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122. Alexander Zetterberg, C/LW
Buffalo:
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11. Berkly Catton, C/LW
43. John Mustard, LW
76. Adam Kleber, RD
108. Javon Moore, LW
109. Noel Franson, LD
Calgary:
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9. Konsta Helenius, C/RW
28. Julius Miettinen, C/LW
41. Nikita Artamonov, RW/LW
65. Justin Poirier, RW
74. Tomas Lavoie, RD
106. Yegor Graf, C
107. Jakub Fibigr, LD
Carolina:
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27. Jett Luchanko, C/RW
60. Tomas Galvas, LD
92. Aatos Koivu, C/LW
124. Andrei Krutov, LW/RW
Chicago:
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3. Cayden Lindstrom, C/LW
20. Andrew Basha, LW
34. Henry Mews, RD
54. Sam O'Reilly, RW
67. Carson Wetsch, RW
72. Sebastian Soini, RD
Colorado:
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24. Terik Parascak, RW
121. Nicholas Kempf, G
Columbus:
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5. Artyom Levshunov, RD
36. Dean Letourneau, C
69. Nathan Villeneuve, C
86. Riley Patterson, LW/C
101. Christian Humphreys, C/RW
Dallas:
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32. Harrison Brunicke, RD
Detroit:
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15. Beckett Sennecke, RW
47. Lukas Fischer, LD
80. Lucas Van Vliet, LW/C
129. Markus Loponen, C
Edmonton:
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62. Luca Marrelli, RD
Florida:
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96. Niilopekka Muhonen, LD
Los Angeles:
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21. Emil Hemming, RW
118. Oskar Vuollet, LW
Minnesota:
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13. Michael Brandsegg-Nygard, RW
45. Leo Sahlin Wallenius, LD
110. Thoms Mrsic, RW
Montreal:
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6. Tij Iginla, LW
26. Yegor Surin, RW/C
57. Raoul Boilard, C
70. Jack Pridham, RW
78. Timur Kol, LD
102. Heikki Ruohonen, C/LW
Nashville:
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22. Sacha Boisvert, C
53. Aron Kiviharju, LD
55. Luke Misa, C/LW
59. Leon Muggli, LD
87. Colin Ralph, LD
97. Maximillian Curran, C
99. Veeti Vaisanen, LD
119. Matvei Babenko, RW
126. Topias Hynninen, LW
New Jersey:
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10. Sam Dickinson, LD
75. Simon Zether, C
91. Eemil Vinni, G
New York Islanders:
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18. Trevor Connelly, LW
50. Lucas Pettersson, C/LW
115. Alexandre Blais, LW
New York Rangers:
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30. Dominik Badinka, RD
127. John Whipple, LD
Ottawa:
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8. Zeev Buium, LD
25. EJ Emery, RD
39. Marek Vanacker, LW
104. Kieron Walton, LW
112. Nate Misskey, RD
117. Hiroki Gojsic, RW
128. Jonathan Morello, C
Philadelphia:
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12. Anton Silayev, LD
31. Linus Eriksson, C/LW
51. Maxim Masse, RW
77. Max Plane, LW/RW
Pittsburgh:
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44. Teddy Stiga, LW/C
46. Spencer Gill, RD
111. AJ Spellacy, RW
San Jose:
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1. Macklin Celebrini, C
14. Cole Eiserman, LW
33. Charlie Elick, RD
42. Alfons Freij, LD
85. Jack Berglund, LW/C
116. Mikhail Yegorov, G
Seattle:
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2. Ivan Demidov, RW
40. Jesse Pulkkinen, LD
63. Miguel Marques, LW/RW
73. Ollie Josephson, C/LW
88. Kasper Pikkarainen, RW
105. Ondrej Kos, LW
St. Louis:
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16. Liam Greentree, RW/LW
48. Stian Solberg, LD
56. Cole Hutson, LD
81. Ben Danford, RD
95. Herman Traff, RW
113. Roman Shokhrin, LD
Tampa Bay:
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--see you in round 5--
Toronto:
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23. Adam Jiricek, RD
83. Ryerson Leenders, G
120. Alexis Bernier, RD
Utah:
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7. Zayne Parekh, RD
38. Matvei Gridin, RW
49. Kamil Bednarik, C
64. Matvei Shuravin, LD
71. Pavel Moysevich, G
89. Brodie Ziemer, RW/LW
94. Ethan Procyszyn, C/RW
98. Miroslav Satan, LW
103. Daniil Ustinkov, LD
Vancouver:
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93. Marcus Gidlof, G
125. Miroslav Holinka, C/RW
Vegas:
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19. Igor Chernyshov, LW/RW
84. Gabriel Eliasson, LD
Washington:
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17. Michael Hage, C
52. Colton Roberts, RD
82. Tarin Smith, LD
90. Clarke Caswell, LW
114. Carter George, G
Winnipeg:
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37. Ryder Ritchie, RW
123. Kim Saarinen, G
