newdimension
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- May 18, 2013
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It's mid-winter, which means it's the perfect time for my annual "Winter NHL Mock Draft". As per usual, some notes, including a per team summary at the end:
>> I'm going to do 4 rounds for now. When we get to the spring, I'll probably do an extra round; until finally, we get to my final full year end mock draft.
>> The draft order is based on league standings as per my cut-off date of Friday, Januay 26th. It's also a post-playoff format, in which I predict the ECF/WCF finalists and Cup winner.
>> For the East, I'm predicting Florida beats Carolina to move on to the finals for the 2nd year in a row. For the West, I'm predicting an Edmonton-Colorado showdown, with the Avs outlasting the Oilers in the long run. Finally, I have Colorado taking the Cup and winning it all again, giving the Panthers another year of heartbreak.
>> As always, I'm not a scout -- I don't get to see every player, it's just not feasible. Take all comparisons and everything else lightly.
>> Lottery results, as per tankathon: 1. Columbus; 2. San Jose.
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ROUND ONE
1. Columbus: Macklin Celebrini, C
After lucking into Adam Fantilli last year, they could win the lottery this year and luck their way into adding Celebrini as well. It'd be a huge gain for their center core, with both Celebrini and Fantilli, both ideal #1 centers, being their guys of the future. It's definitely a great situation to be in, especially knowing how well Celebrini has been tearing up the NCAA this year.
Comparison: He's sort of a Nathan MacKinnon-meets-Joe Pavelski type. While he skates better than Pavelski, he doesn't quite meet the MacKinnon-level bursts of blazing speed, nor does he have the same impactful offensive output... but there's some excellent two-way smarts, shooting skill and ability to go to the hard areas to produce. Maybe not a generational type, but a solid #1 center of the future with a hunger to win.
2. San Jose: Anton Silayev, D
If the Sharks don't get that 2nd first rounder from Pittsburgh, they may opt to grab a defenseman at the 2nd overall mark. Silayev started the year extremely hot, but has seen his production kind of plateau as of late. That said, with his size, skating and ability to produce, he has a lite-version of Victor Hedman type of potential, which might be difficult for the Sharks to pass on, considering their blueline.
Comparison: Jay Bouwmeester.. but with a few more inches in size. Lofty names such as Hedman and Chara have been thrown about, but I'm not sure he could ever reach them. He's probably something more akin to a Bouwmeester -- big, fast, mobile for his size defenseman, with a long reach that can allow him to dominate at both ends of the ice.
3. Chicago: Cayden Lindstrom, C/LW
Thanks to his combined talent, size and physical tools, Lindstrom's found himself rocketing up draft lists. He might be a perfect fit for the Blackhawks, who'd love to add some size to their forward core, seconding Connor Bedard. Whether he plays as a wing or center, his size would be a welcome addition, giving them something they highly need.
Comparison: Tage Thompson. Lindstrom's a big shoot-first forward, who is also blessed with a bevy of physical tools. He can be a presence in front of the net, while also making life difficult for his opponents in the corners and along the boards.
4. Anaheim: Artyom Levshunov, D
In the past, the Ducks may have shied away from Russian or Belarussian talent. However, now that they're under a new regime, things take anoter turn, with Pavel Mintyukov, for example, already finding a home there. With the numbers he's putting up, it'd honestly be hard to pass on him. After trading Jamie Drysdale for Cutter Gauthier, there's likely a spot open on the right side, with Levshunov and the Ducks blowing other teams out of the water within the next 5 years.
Comparison: Zach Werenski. As one of the NCAA's youngest players, he's put up fantastic numbers for Michigan State's blueline as a pure offensive defenseman. He's a defender that plays a roving style, loving to put up numbers from the backend.
5. Ottawa: Carter Yakemchuk, D
Alrght, let's make it fun here. Yakemchuk is definitely a kid that's on the rise. It's a new regime, so let's get funky in Ottawa. They've got a well-built forward core. They could go for a big right-shooting defenseman with physicality and-- hey, that's an apt description of Yakemchuk, who I'm quite high on. Pair him with Jake Sanderson as a safety net, then unleash him, for best possible outcomes.
Comparison: Brent Burns. Like Burns, Yakemchuk's a mobile, offense-first defenseman that can sometimes give up positioning in order to bring offense from the point, along with some heavy, physical play. There's some chaos in his game, but when he's producing he's got top pairing potential.
6. Buffalo: Sam Dickinson, D
They've gone forward-heavy with their recent drafting. At this point, they could take the best defenseman left on the board, loving Dickinson's potential. He's someone that can help keep pucks oot of their end and out of their net, which is a perfect fit for what they desire.
Comparison: Jake Sanderson. Dickinson's a puck-smothering, mobile defenseman that plays an incredibly solid, lockdown game. Not only does he utilize physicality, he also uses excellent skating ability to chase down pucks and close gaps, making him a potential top pairing/top 4 shutdown defender.
7. Montreal: Ivan Demidov, RW
With the way he's currently playing, Demidov is certainly someone in contention to go 2nd overall. The things playing against him are his lack of size, Russian factor and the fact that he's a winger, with teams choosing defense/centers over him. For the Habs, they'd be thrilled to grab him at this point, giving them a skilled, all-out attacking forward that's sorely missing in their system.
Comparison: Artemi Panarin. Demidov's, without a doubt, an elite, game-breaking talent. He's got the skating, the skill, the IQ to become a star winger in the league. With his size and the Russian factor in play, it's just up to debate where his draft range is.
8. Minnesota: Zeev Buium, D
Having gone forward-heavy in recent drafts, they aim for defense with their selection this year. Buium's putting up historic numbers in the NCAA and is coming off an impressive performance at the World Juniors, which could propel him into top 10 consideration. The Wild could hope he can commandeer their blueline for the next decade.
Comparison: Kris Letang. Bringing incredible composure, balance and skill, Buium can be a point-producing defenseman that leans into the offensive side of the game. His two-way skill gives him top-line/top-four potential, which is something any team could love.
9. Calgary: Tij Iginla, LW/RW
Yes, it's Jarome's son; and no, I don't think the Flames can afford to let him drop past them. Imagine the headlines if he goes to another team and torches the Flames. Young for the draft, Tij is absolutely top 10 worthy and has done nothing but improve his game all season long. If he keeps this pace of improvement, he could be a pretty lethal top six forward.
Comparison: Filip Forsberg. Not quite at the level of his father's power forward style, Iginla could be more like a Filip Forsberg, whose scoring and versatility make him a tremendous top-six player. He scores, he hits, he has a good well-rounded game, he's an elite-level of Swiss Army Knife that can even play center.
10. Pittsburgh: Berkly Catton, C/LW
Knowing that the Penguins only retained the pick due to finishing within the top 10, Kyle Dubas would frankly love to walk out with the best talent available. In this case, I could see him valuing someone like Catton quite highly. With guys like Malkin and Crosby getting older, they're going to need offensive studs sooner rather than later.
Comparison: Claude Giroux. A zone-entry machine, Catton's someone that'd probably flirt with top 5 status if he wasn't under 6 feet. He loves cutting to the middle, firing pucks on the ice and can be a playmaking wizard with the puck. Whether he sticks at center remains to be seen, but he's got dynamic puck skill and a great mind for the game.
11. Seattle: Konsta Helenius, C/RW
Ron Francis drafted Sebastian Aho when he was the Hurricanes's organization. It just feels right for him to select Helenius, a similar type of heedy talent that gets by on his hockey IQ, here. He'd probably fit in well with the type of game the Kraken try to play, as well.
Comparison: Nick Suzuki. As stated, Helenius is a high-IQ forward, who uses that fact to produce. He can create plays, shoots well and navigates around the ice in a well-rounded manner. What he lacks in size, he can make up for with his hockey brain.
12. Arizona: Cole Eiserman, LW
Coming into this season, Eiserman was touted as someone that could content with Macklin Celebrini for first overall. Unfortunately, there's been concerns with his defensive play, consistency and how useful he is when he isn't shooting the puck. That said, he has the best shooting skill in the draft, still making him a very dangerous forward for the Coyotes, who think he'd make an excellent linemate for Logan Cooly.
Comparison: Phil Kessel/Patrik Laine. When he isn't producing offense, Eiserman's kind of a floaty and turnover prone winger. However, there's no denying that his release is and he has a knack for goal scoring. He's someone that'll need to be insulated, but could pay dividends if a team is patient.
13. Washington: Zayne Parekh, D
Seemingly focused on selecting Canadian talent as of late, the Caps could walk out with Zayne Parekh, the offense-first defenseman that's been dominating at te OHL level. Putting up huge goal scoring numbers, he's looked like an offensive dynamo, who could even challenge for a top 5-10 selection if he continues at his torrid pace.
Comparison: Mike Green. Like Mike Green, Parekh's a player that focuses solely on offense, sometimes even at the detriment of his defense. He's got high quality instincts, though, so it should help him navigate his way into and through the pro ranks.
14. St. Louis: Adam Jiricek, D
Going for need, they focus on defense, taking Jiricek, who was once thought of as a top 10 selection. Some concerns, along with a longterm injury at the WJC's, have dropped him... but teams could still take a chance. He's the younger brother of Columbus's player, David Jiricek, so they grab him, liking his pedigree.
Comparison: Cam Fowler. He may not have the higher potential as his older brother, but he still profiles as a decently sized defenseman that skates really well and can aide in transition. He may be more of a 2nd pairing guy, if anything.
15. New York Islanders: Trevor Connelly, LW
Going for "BPA" at this point, the Isles calmly and simply select Trevor Connelly, whose skills and speed would be a major boost to their group of forwards. The Islanders would hope he can learn a few things from Mat Barzal, who can take him under his tutelage.
Comparison: Jonathan Huberdeau. I could see him develop into a Huberdeau-like player. Namely a winger with blistering speed that brings excellent puck control, playmaking and scoring. In terms of weight, he's a little small, definitely needing to bulk up, which could hinder him if he doesn't gain strength.
16. New Jersey: Michael Brandsegg-Nygard, RW
Concerns over his overall scoring could cost him a top 15 spot. Alternatively, some team could love his package and tools, taking him fairly high. With the Devils needing guys that can play on the inside, providing a power forward role, Nygard would make an exemplary selection.
Comparison: Gabriel Landeskog-lite. At his best, whether it's as a top-six guy or a bottom-nine role player, he could become a physical force on the ice, with strong leadership qualities and a tenacious will to win. His ability to slide up and down the lines make him a tremendous asset.
17. Nashville: Liam Greentree, RW
Seeing Greentree still on board, they hope all over him, liking in him the same things that they saw in Wood last year. Greentree, like Wood, plays a similar style of game, right on down to the poorer skating skills, yet bring a load of offensive talent.
Comparison: Jason Robertson. Not fleet of foot whatsoever, Greentree's got skating issues he needs to figure out. Nevertheless, he's shown incredible hockey IQ, playmaking skills and can absolutely wire the puck. There's a good chance he could contend for a top 10 selection if he works on his skating.
18. Los Angeles: Emil Hemming, RW
They've been no stranger to drafting Europeans. Someone such as Emil Hemming could be of interest, feeling as if he'd make a good fit to play alongside Quinton Byfield. Even if he doesn't become a top liner, he still has the speed and goal scoring ability to work in a middle-six role.
Comparison: Adrian Kempe. Hemming's a big, strong, speedy winger that shoots first and asks questions later, both for better and for worse. There's versatility in his game that makes him useful in many roles.
19. Detroit: Igor Chernyshov, LW/RW
The Russian factor could slip Chernyshov down the board from where he should/could go. If so, the Wings would be wise to pick him here, giving them a big, powerful winger that they could use to complement some of their skilled guys. There's uncertainty about his true upside, with questions abound where he can play in a top-nine, with the Wings willing to take a chance on him to strengthen their forwards.
Comparison: Alex Tuch. Chernyshov's a big power winger that plays an old school type of game. He's a two-way, physical force that can also add some secondary offense and provides good results in terms of defense.
20. Philadelphia: Ryder Ritchie, RW/C
Inconsistency and injuries have put a plague on his season thus far. Once he's fully recovered, he has the chance to boost his stock, hopefully fighting his way back into top 20 contention. Otherwise, the Flyers could jump on him, enabling them to take a chance on a high-upside, skilled forward, hoping to replace a talent such as Cutter Gauthier.
Comparison: Jordan Kyrou. At his best, Ritchie plays with a ton of speed; brings a versatile, well-rounded game; and can score goals as well as he can set-up plays. A potential top 6 forward that can do a little of everything, who has some tenacity in his game.
21. Toronto: Charlie Elick, D
It wouldn't shock me if they wanted to grab some defense this draft. It also wouldn't surprise me if they take someone that's difficult to play against, as evidenced by recent drafts. Elick could be someone they can step in soon and provide, even if it's in a depth role, making him valuable for playoff runs.
Comparison: Jake Muzzin. Elick's a hard-nosed defender that excels in a shutdown role. His main problem comes when he has to handle the puck, not exactly a stalwart in terms of defense. He could/should be a guy that makes life difficult on opponents, however.
22. Chicago [from Tampa Bay]: Colton Roberts, D
An impressive showing at the CHL's Top Prospect Game may have opened the eyes of scouts in his direction. Standing 6'4" and owning excellent mobility, the Hawks head back to the WHL to select him, liking what he could bring their blueline. In a perfect world, he becomes a valuable defender to play alongside Kevin Korchinski. If not, he could still turn into a valuable depth guy.
Comparison: K'Andre Miller. Roberts combines his mobility and puck movement skill with his physical tools, making him a complementary defenseman with upside. There's potential for him to play a middle-pairing role, along with obviously working special teams.
23. Vegas: Andrew Basha, LW
Basha is exactly the type of high-energy forward the Golden Knights relied upon to win the Stanley Cup last year. They feel he'd make a perfect fit for the style of game they like to play, thereby swiftly scooping him off the board.
Comparison: Ondrej Palat. Basha's a workhorse, playmaking winger that comes at you fast and hard. He's a versatile, complementary piece that can potentially work on any line, can slot into various roles and is a monster on transitioning pucks.
24. Dallas: Beckett Sennecke, RW/LW
They have quite a history of drafting out of the OHL. They go back there, taking him from Guelph, where they go hope he can develop into a strong winger for them. His recent growth spurt, which witnessed him going from 5'10" to 6'3", has left him a little clunky on his feet, with Dallas ready to give him time to find his bearings.
Comparison: Matthew Knies. Still growing into his frame, Sennecke profiles as a complementary winger with size, who can add supplementary offense and delivers good all-around skill.
25. New York Rangers: Matvei Shuravin, D
The Rangers could go for defense by selecting Shuravin, the big, steady defenseman from Russia. He's looked promising in the KHL, which bodes well for his draft positioning. It would't shock me if another team even takes a chance at him much earlier.
Comparison: Mattias Ekholm. Shuravin's a smothering shutdown defenseman that uses his long reach and size to his advantage. He can pokecheck away pucks, get things turning in the opposite direction and can disrupt plays coming towards his own end.
26. Winnipeg: Dominik Badinka, D
Considering their strong European scouting, someone like Badinka might be of interest. Not only does he fill a need for RHD depth on their blueline, he offers puck retrieval and transitioning skills from the backend, which would be a welcome addition.
Comparison: Brady Skjei. Badinka's a big, 6'3" defenseman that skates pretty well, is great along the boards and can keep pucks in motion back up the ice. He could challenge for a two-way, mid-pairing/top 4 role at some point.
27. Ottawa [from Boston]: EJ Emery, D
In recent years, the Sens have used the University of North Dakota as their grooming grounds. With Emery headed there in the fall, he'd make a really nice pickup here for them. Not only does he offer stabilizing defensive depth, but he fits a need for their backend. With both Levshunov and Emery, they get a little bit of everything, which should re-stock their RHD depth for a few years.
Comparison: Brett Pesce. Emery's not going to be someone that "wow"'s you. Instead, he'll play a calm, focused, steady game, help protect leads and is adept at shutting down opponents. The type of player you win with.
28. Vancouver: Lucas Pettersson, C/LW
Coming from Sweden and playing for Modo, it's a good bet that Petterson's on their radar. They can scoop him up here, hoping he adds some depth down the middle, with the thought he can become a middle-six some day. He'll need seasoning, but the potential is there.
Comparison: William Karlsson. Pettersson's a potential #2/3 center that plays a calm, collected, well-balanced and swift game down the middle. His offensive skill is pretty good, often leaning more towards setting up teammates, while also owning some nice shooting skill. There's captain material there.
29. Edmonton: Jesse Pulkkinen, D
If the Oilers keep this pick, they should swing for the fences. With few picks, they could go homerun swinging, with Pulkkinen being the first of those type of swings. Passed over last year, the Finnish defenseman is 6'6" and has put up very respectable numbers overseas.
Comparison: Colton Parayko. With his combination of size, reach and skating, something like Parayko is probably his best possible outcome. As an overager, it might be a lofty comparable, but there's potential. He just needs to work on his defensive game because there's a lot of other high end tools in his skillset.
30. Carolina: Jett Luchanko, RW/C
This feels exactly like the type of selection the Hurricanes love to make. Luchanko isn't the largest player on the ice, but he brings a boatload of talent and two-way savvy. The fact that he can even play center also makes him a very sexy selection for them.
Comparison: Jaden Schwartz. Luchanko, like Schwartz, is a lightweight, who stands 5'10". What he lacks in size, he makes up for in talent, two-way positioning and spirit, which could turn him into a valuable top-nine forward.
31. Philadelphia [from Florida]: Michael Hage, C
Needing some center depth, the Flyers could gamble on Hage, hoping it pays off. It's been a rough year for him, but he's got talent and they hope he can become a middle-six offensive center. If he can get back in form, he's a nice swing.
Comparison: Nich Schmaltz. Armed with good playmaking skill and offensive talent, Hage is someone that could challenge for a #2 center role. If not, a team could shift him to the wing, where he also produces quite well in a top six.
32. Colorado: Dean Letourneau, C
A giant on the ice, Letourneau's a guy whose position is all over the place. With the Avalanche wanting some center depth, they could take a crack at home, keeping a close eye on the 6'7" as he goes to college next year. He's a boom or bust type, with the Avs obviously hoping he turns into a Tage Thompson type.
Comparison: Michae; Rasmussen. It remains to be seen exactly what Letourneau's potential is. As a prospect, he's kind of a unicorn -- a huge 6'7", whose presence and reach upfront can be beast-like. That said, if he's offense doesn't develop, he could be someone that's destined for a bottom-six role.
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ROUND 2
33. Chicago: Tanner Howe, LW
There's a connection there with Connor Bedard that they might want to reignite. As Bedard's linemate, they put up explosive numbers and it might prompt them to want to reunite that duo. Howe may not be performing up to expectations this year, hence his drop in the rankings, but he's still got upside as an aggressive forward with some complementary skill.
Comparison: Robby Fabbri. Howe's an undersized, aggressive forward that works extremely hard on the ice. He goes to the danger areas to produce and can be someone you put out to play in all situations.
34. San Jose: Kamil Bednarik, C
With Bednarik heading to Boston University next fall, it definitely has him on the radar for the Sharks, who have plenty of Boston connections. A guy like Bednarik would be a good add for center depth, which is something that needed to be worked on.
Comparison: Philip Danault. Bednarik isn't someone that's going to be a top line guy. He's going to be someone you put out in difficult situations to try and defend leads and play hard. He battles in the danger areas and works had every time he's on the ice.
35. Anaheim: Cole Beaudoin, C/RW
Beaudoin's not a "pretty pick", but he's been working his way up boards thanks to his determined and gritty play in the OHL. With Anaheim's deck fully stacked in terms of talent, they may want to add some character guys to help fill out their roster. Beaudoin would be a perfect fit for that.
Comparison: Boone Jenner. Beaudoin isn't the fastest or the flashiest. What he does is crash bodies, work hard, out-work opponents and play with physicality, while armed with some good shooting ability.
36. Ottawa: Sacha Boisvert, C
They again look towards North Dakota, taking Canadian-born center, Sacha Boisvert, who's percolating in the American collegiate system. It's has been a perfect season for him, which is why the 6'2" center is available here in the early 2nd, with the Senators happily taking him off the board.
Comparison: Shane Pinto. Boisvert's got size and skill... however, it remains to be seen just how high his overall upside is. He may settle in as a 3rd line center role, but he could/should become a decent complementary player, who can also score goals.
37. Philadelphia [from Columbus]: Alfons Freij, D
After taking 2 forwards in the first, they decide to go with defense for their 2nd round selection, in order to keep a nice balance. The Swedes's two-way game should be a good addition to the Flyers's current crop of defensive prospects, with his ability to move pucks being highly valued.
Comparison: Rasmus Andersson. While I don't know if he'll have the same development curve as Andersson, Freij play a similar style of puck-moving game, focusing on both offense and defense.
38. Buffalo: Nikita Artamonov, RW
In terms of value, Artamonov's a surefire first rounder. However, I suspect scouts will be wary because he's undersized and Russian, which could see him fall into the 2nd round. A brave team such as Buffalo, who place a high value into analytics, could take him, like they have with previous falling, undersized forwards.
Comparison: Jesper Bratt. Artamonov has one of the highest engines in the draft. He never stops working hard and goes to the high-danger areas, where he's shown a nice ability to put pucks in dangerous areas. A valuable, well-rounded asset that can play any role given to him.
39. Winnipeg [from Montreal]: Terik Parascak, RW
Parascak has exploded offensively this year. Apprehensions about his skating remain, however, with the Jets willing to take a chance. There's a chance some team could take a chance on him in the firt -- but if not, the Jets would be happy to take him in the 2nd.
Comparison: Jordan Eberle. Something like Eberle is probably his upside. Think of him as a player who isn't the tallest or fastest, who makes up for that with his high IQ play and skill.
40. Minnesota: John Mustard, LW
The Wild are a savvy drafting team and they could take him here. For whatever reason, John Mustard is getting underrated on draft lists, with the Wild happy to take him here, loving his ability to come down off the rush and play a power game. Whether he plays top/middle/bottom-six is all dependant on how the Wild development, but he's capable of either role.
Comparison: Jason Zucker. Mustard's a fast, aggressive winger that's more of a shoot-first type than a passer. He likes firing rubber on net and can be versatile in his useability.
41. Calgary: Henry Mews, D
In order to keep their depth on the right side strong, they grab RHD, Henry Mews. He came into the year thought of as a high-end first rounder. Unfortunately, he's met some challenges and things he needs to work. The Flames could take a chance on him, hoping he can keep improving and work their blueline in the future.
Comparison: Vince Dunn. Mews is a mobile, puck-transitioning defenseman that can lean into offense. He's a work-in-progress, though. He'll need some time to develop and work on his overall to hopefully contribute in some fashion to a pro club.
42. Pittsburgh: Leo Sahlin Wallenius, D
Wallenius is another first round level of talent that drops solely due to size. If I'm the Pens, I'm thrilled to get him here, knowing that a potential mid-pair defenseman that can also work powerplays is in your lap can be a very useful weapon.
Comparson: Cam York. Playing a game based upon his skating, Wallenius can be a little reckless at times. This recklessness can also be to a team's benefit, as it can allow him to turn off the jets to supply offense from the back.
43. Seattle: Gabriel Eliasson, D
Size likely gets Eliasson drafted much higher than expected. Standing 6'6", the Kraken have shown a liking towards large defenseman and he could be within their wheelhouse, feelig he's the perfect addition to their blueline.
Comparison: Alex Vlasic. Eliasson fits the mould of a huge, shutdown defenseman, who can also keep up with the pace of play. His long reach shoul allow him to strip pucks from opponents and keep pucks out of own zone.
44. Arizona: Yegor Surin, RW/C
Knowing that the area goes undercouted due to global affairs, the Coyotes cashed in on some Russian talent last year. They could do the same here by taking Surin, who's been an absolute pest to play against in the Russian junior leagues.
Comparison: Max Domi. He's like Max Domi, but in a larger frame, with a similar temperament. He's excellent at making plays. He hits like a truck. He's a pest on the ice and makes like difficult for opposing players. A guy with 2nd line upside, who other players hate playing against.
45. Arizona [from Washington]: Lukas Fischer, D
They've been explicit in liking players that come from quality bloodlines in the past. Someone such as Fischer makes sense for them due to the family ties, along with their inherent love of players with size. Add both things together and it feels like a natural fit.
Comparison: Brenden Dillon. For a big kid, who's still growing, Fischer moves extraordinarily well. He's able to play physical and is no slouch as keeping pucks in momentum back up the ice. He's a well-rounded defenseman that could play a solid depth role.
46. St. Louis: Miguel Marques, LW/RW
Some rankings have him listed within the first round range. For a mid-2nd round selection, Marques is quality value. The Blues would likely be happy to take him here, hoping they can develop him into a top-six offensive winger with some versatility.
Comparison: Troy Terry. Marques is the type of winger that comes with a lot of skill, in terms of both shooting and playmaking. His drawback is that he's not the biggest -- and that could knock him down draft lists.
47. New York Islanders: Aron Kiviharju, D
Coming into the year, the cerebral defenseman, Aron Kiviharju, was hailed as a high first round selection -- perhaps even top 5. Sadly, his longterm injury, along with early season woes have seemingly dealt him a bad hand. After he had such glowing previous years, the Islanders feel like a team that's willing to give him a shot at redemption in the coming years.
Comparison: Lubomir Visnovsky. As a smaller and slower defenseman, it's hard to gauge Kiviharju's true worth and potential. At his best, maybe something like a Visnovsky is his upside. Not only is size a concern, but so will be injuries.
48. New Jersey: Maxim Masse, RW
Masse is another kid that came into the season with a lot of hype, yet failed to nail down that first round status. If the Devils can select him here, they'd probably be thrilled, hoping and feeling he can turn things around in the QMJHL in the coming years.
Comparison: Alex Killorn. Profiles as a middle line, shooting winger that can play with some tenacity and two-way smarts. There's consistency and compete issues that he needs to work on, too.
49. San Jose [from Nashville]: Jack Pridham, RW
Pridham's another talent that'll be attending BU in the fall, once he finishes in the BCHL. As such, I'll keep their trend going, with Mike Griere hoping to keep the kids together in order to develop within their system.
Comparison: Brandon Saad. He's a big bodied winger with good speed and scoring talent off the wing. He may be able to use these talents as a complementary winger that can hopefully play a middle-six.
50. Chicago [from Los Angeles]: Carson Wetsch, RW
Adding a big, bruising winger such as Wetsch might be a good option to go along with some of their smaller, skilled guys that they have in development. At minimum, he's someone that could play a bottom-six depth role; or someone you throw out alongside Connor Bedard as a bit of protection.
Comparison: Will Cuylle. Wetsch is a power forward prospect that plays how you thing a power winger should act. He hits, drives to the net, works hard on the boards and comes to compete.
51. Detroit: Simon Zether, C/RW
Rogle has become a breeding ground for Red Wings talent in recent years. He feels right in line with what they're trying to do -- and, at minimum, increases their size upfront, which they tend to love.
Comparison: Jesperi Kotkaniemi. Zether's a big, versatile center/winger, who has some talent and two-way skill in his game. Put him in the right systems and he could develop into a potential bottom-nine/bottom-six center that can also add some scoring.
52. Carolina [from Philadelphia]: Matvei Gridin, RW
The sturdy Russian import is a winger playing in the USHL this season, where he's put up promising point totals. He could be considered the best player available at this point, with the 'Canes selecting him, hoping to boost their winger depth.
Comparison: Owen Tippett. Gridin's a skilled offensive finisher with decent size for the wing. On the negative, he can battle inconsistency, but when on the powerplay, can can prove to be a dynamic force.
53. St. Louis [from Toronto]: Cole Hutson, D
His older brother, Lane, has been tearing it up in college since being drafted around the same range by the Canadiens. Even though he's not at the same level as his brother, there's still upside there, with St. Louis taking the risk on the undersized defender.
Comparison: Samuel Girard. Hutson's an undersized, yet swift defenseman that can wheel pucks up the ice with rapid pace. He has potential to become a bottom-four type of defenseman that can also work powerplays, putting up points from the back.
54. Nashville [from Tampa Bay]: Will Skahan, D
Drafting from the USNTDP, the Preds grab the big shutdown defensema, Will Skahan, in hopes of adding some beef to their blueline. He may not be an offensive wizard, but he's the type of player that teams covet, helping them to win tough games.
Comparison: Mattias Samuelsson. He's a tall defensive defenseman that plays a stay-at-home game. He's not going to make the pretty plays. He's going to make it hard to play against by crashing bodies, clearing the crease and working hard.
55. Vegas: Ollie Josephson, LW/C
A versatile forward, Josephson might be a savvy pickup for the Golden Knights. His two-way play and on-ice warrior mentality feels just right for what Vegas likes in their players. He could be someone that fits in a bottom-six/bottom-nine role.
Comparison: Scott Laughton. Josephson's a two-way center that plays fast and hard, bringing good playmaking and passing skill. He's an all-situations type of forward, who can play powerplay and PK, making him a tremendous asset.
56. Dallas: Luke Misa, C/LW
The younger brother of one of next year's star propects, Misa might be the fastest player left on the board, along with the best player left from the OHL. Of course with Dallas's history of drafting out of the OHL, Misa could be someone they'd like to add, fitting their desire to add more depth scoring and speed to their core.
Comparison: Gustav Nyquist. Between his play in his own end, his speed, with his high-danger playmaking ability, Misa's got potential to become a middle-six forward, who likely shifts to the wing for optimal results. If he wasn't 5'10", he's likely a first round prospect.
57. New York Rangers: Melvin Fernstrom, RW/LW
The Rangers look to build up their wings with this selection. He's the type of player that they've been looking to add right now and had a solid Hlinka performance last year. If he continues until the end of the year, he could solidify himself as a top 60 player.
Comparison: Nino Niederreiter. Fernstrom's a winger that battles hard in front of the net, where he attempts whacking away at rebounds and makes high-danger passes. He's someone with secondary, complementary offense, who provides depth scoring.
58. Nashville [from Winnipeg]: Teddy Stiga, LW
Attempting to grab pure skill, the Preds latch on to Teddy Stiga, who's lack of size might be a detriment to his overall draft positioning. If they go with Will Skahan previously, they may also look to add Stiga, who will also be attending Boston College in the fall.
Comparison: Trevor Moore. Barely standing 5'10", Stiga's gonna have to put on some weight if he wants to continue moving up the ranks. He plays an uptempo, skilled game, using his hands, vision, speed and skill to produce both on even strength and on special teams.
59. Anaheim [from Boston]: Adam Jecho, RW/C
A big bodied Czech forward, Jecho is a perfect fit for what the Ducks are trying to do with their talent pool. At minimum, it deepens their winger pool, adds another big body upfront and gives them a homerun type of swing, where they can watch to see how he develops over time. With teams loving players with size, there's a really good chance that he goes even higher.
Comparison: Mason Marchment. A huge, 6'5" forward, Jecho is someone that can use his size to his advantage, whilst also bringing an admirable skill game. He protects pucks along the board, has a good reason and can be a dependable bottom-nine type.
60. Chicago [from Vancouver]: Marek Vanacker, LW
Vanacker's been steadily rising up rankings with his two-way play in the OHL this season. Vanacker gives them a nice complementary winger that can slide into multiple roles, including special teams, which is always useful.
Comparison: Reilly Smith. Vanacker's someone that'll play up and down a lineup. He's very "plug and play", in that he's a versatile, two-way winger that can force turnovers and work various different units.
61. Edmonton: Sam O'Reilly, RW
A contending team such as the Oilers could love what O'Reilly brings to them. A bundle of energy, he's a player that could step into a depth role with the Oilers to help them contend for championships, doing all kinds of hard, difficult work in order to win.
Comparison: Nick Paul. Formerly a defenseman, O'Reilly's been converted to being a forward, which helps excel him in his energetic, two-way game. He'll bump bodies and works dangerous areas in order to help his team.
62. Carolina: Daniil Ustinkov, D
Depending on whom you ask, Ustinkov might be considered as a first round prospect. If he's here late in the 2nd, the Hurricanes grab onto him, feeling like the composed Swiss defenseman can keep developing into a useful defensive piece.
Comparison: Andrej Sekera. Like Sekera, Ustinkov's an average-size defeneman, who is quite poised with the puck and plays a dependable, smart, calm and positionally sound game.
63. Arizona [from Florida]: Timur Kol, D
Hoping for another steal, the Coyotes dip their toes into the Russian talent pool. This time, they fish out Timur Kol, a LHD that plays on both sides of the ice. With a flurry of picks, they can afford to take a chance on the Russian defenseman.
Comparison: Jake Walman. Timur Kol is a big, 6'3" defenseman that can walk the line and unload with his absolute bomb of a shot. The team that takes him will have to wait, but he could be a big payoff.
64. Montreal [from Colorado]: Raoul Broillard, C/LW
After a standout performance at the CHL's Top Prospect Game, Broillard's stock could be on the rise. If he's still on the board, the Habs grab him here, taking a "local kid". It's great for the area -- and it's also a boost to their center depth and gives them a player with some size, which they also like.
Comparison: Morgan Geekie. Boillard mixes power and skill into a complete package, while also being excellent on the faceoff dot. Thanks to the Q being known as 'weaker", there are concerns over his overall scoring upside and quality of competition, but there are some tools to work upon here.
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ROUND 3
65. Chicago: Julius Miettien, C/RW
Miettinen's a Finnish import, who'd, at the very minimum, give the Blackhawks some more size upfront. The fact that he can play wing or center adds to his valuability, with the Hawks feeling he could battle for a 3rd line center role some day.
Comparison: Carl Soderberg. Miettinen's a big forward that can be a netfront presence, while also providing solid all-around play. Standing almost 6'3", his size adds to his value, making him versatile enough to be shifted around a lineup.
66. Anaheim [from San Jose]: Stian Solberg, D
Solberg's coming off an impressive for Norway at the WJC. It might have propelled him into the top 64 range for scouts. If he's still on the board here, it'd be wise for the Ducks to pick him up in order to shore up their impessive blueline even further than it already is.
Comparion: Martin Fehervary. He's not the type of defenseman that'll add top-flight offense, as he's not an adept puckhandler. Instead, he'll focus on doing the little things to help win, ie: playing physical, blocking shots, closing gaps, shutting down offense, etc..
67. Anaheim: Christian Humphreys, C/RW
Thought of as a potential first round prospect, picking up someone with the speed and talent of Humphreys here would be a fine selection for the Ducks. They can allow him to develop within the US college systems over the next few seasons, letting him contend for a spot within the next 3-5 years.
Comparison: JT Compher. Humpheys isn't the biggest forward, but he's got a lot of speed and pace. That alone should make him a versatile, useful forward that can play a depth role at any position, on any line.
68. Chicago [from Ottawa]: Nicholas Kempf, G
The Hawks grab a goalie to keep themselves well-stocked in that area. He's an Illinois kid, so it may make them a little more excited to take him, hoping a hometown kid can push himself to take the reigns.
Comparison: Tristan Jarry. Kempf's a hard-working goaltending project with decent size. If he can keep improving, there's a chance he could fulfill a starter's role... but it'll be a long way down the line.
69. Columbus: Veeti Vaisanen, D
The Blue Jackets could use some LHD. If Vaisanen's still there, he's a perfect selection. He's someone that could go late first to mid-third, with the Jackets feeling they have a steal at this point of the draft.
Comparison: Gustav Forsling. Vaisanen's a calm, average sized defenseman that'll keep pucks in movement, has good two-way play and could work his way into a mid-to-bottom pairing role some day.
70. Buffalo: Nathan Villeneuve, C
The Sabres are still looking to increase depth upfront. In taking the energetic Villeneuve, they're hoping to land a player that can play a depth center role. They need more guys that can buzz around and compete hard, which makes Villeneuve attractive.
Comparison: Ross Colton. He's an aggressive center that works well at all ends of the ice. He's got good two-way ability and could contest for a bottom-six/third pairing/energy role at some point.
71. Montreal: Harrison Brunicke, D
A player of Brunicke's stock might be a worthy selection for the Habs at this point. He seems to be getting underrated on mainstream lists, but a smart scouting staff would see his size, skating and physicality, giving him a shot to prove himself... which Montreal does. If anything, it improves their RHD even more.
Comparison: Damon Severson. For now, Severson might be the apt comparison for Brunicke. He's a big kid that skates well for his size, can walk the blueline to deliver offense and he can get his nose dirty with physical play.
72. Montreal [from Minnesota]: Lucas Van Vliet, LW/C
Fresh off an impressive performance at the showcase for America's top prospects, Vliet could be a riser. He owns good size and the versatility to play wing or center. As such, he might make a solid selection for the Habs in this area, hoping he can turn into a middle-line guy that adds some depth scoring.
Comparison: Tanner Pearson. A well-balanced forward, Van Vliet's a versatile player that does a little of everything. He's got excellent hands, can wire pucks and has projectable upside.
73. Calgary: Spencer Gill, D
They've been fond of drafting out of the Q these past few years. In order to boost their defensive depth, someone like Gill could add a stabilizing presence to their backend. With his size and defensive skill, there's upside for him to be at least a depth player.
Comparison: Marcus Pettersson. While not a speed burner, Gill makes up for it with his size and strong positional skill. As such, he can use his stick and long reach to breakup plays and close in on attackers.
74. Anaheim [from Pittsburgh]: Ryerson Leenders, G
With a pretty stacked core, they grab a goalie here. It isn't a great year for goalies, but Leenders is one of the best available, with Anaheim enjoying his athleticism and overall upside.
Comparison: Alexander Georgiev. He doesn't have the size that's been seen from the modern day starter. However, he's got impressive athleticism and flexibility. If he makes it as a starter, it's probably on the lower end, ala Georgiev, who uses his speed and athletic skills to keep out pucks.
75. Seattle: Leon Muggli, D
The Swiss defender is looking promising playing in the Swiss leagues, putting up nice numbers and bringing an overall two-way game. Depending on his development path, there's probably future for him to come in and play a depth role.
Comparison: Mikey Anderson. Muggli's a well-rounded defenseman that moves pucks, doesn't compromise in terms of physicality and can play a safe, all-around game.
76. Arizona: Evan Gardner, G
Coming with a good story, including his battle with type 1 diabetes, Garnder might be a goalie that climbs the ranks, if teams love his character. He's been putting up fantastic numbers when playing and he could someone that teams focus on in the mid-rounds.
Comparison: James Reimer. Gardner's got excellent size, can track rebounds with ease and can be a consistent guy. He just needs time and seasoning to see how high his overall upside is.
77. Washington: Clarke Caswell, LW
Armed with a solid brain and excellent playmaking skill, Caswell's a guy with top 64 skill. The only reason he's still here for the Caps is due to lack of top end speed, which they can look past, hoping he can improve. They've enjoyed the progression of western Canadian kids before; they may return to form and take a chance on him.
Comparison: Matthew Poitras. His skating may not be ideal, making up for it with fantastic energy and playmaking ability. If he can keep working on his game, he could find himself working in a top-nine role.
78. St. Louis: Maximillian Curran, C
As a pass-first center, goals may not be coming aplenty for Curran this year. However, his passing has been spot on and he's shown potential as a serviceable player. Deepening their center pool, they'd take Curran, hoping he can keep developing into a talent for them.
Comparison: Alex Wennberg. Curran's a two-way, pass first center with nice size and well-rounded skill. There's potential for him to grow into a complementary center at the pro levels.
79. Toronto [from New York Islanders: Riley Patterson, C/LW
Going local by grabbing Patterson from Barrie of the OHL, the Leafs feel he's still got a development curve left to come, swiftly taking him off the board. After some early season struggles, he's seemingly broken through and has been playing a more complete game.
Comparison: Vladislav Namestnikov. He could work his way into becoming a useful middle-six type of forward. A Swiss Army Knife type, if you will -- someone you can put out into any situation.
80. New Jersey: Ondrej Kos, LW
Kos might be the exact type of winger that the Devils need. In short, a winger that plays extremely hard and could be considered one of the better defensive forwards in the draft. They need players that'll drop everything to help them win and he's exactly the type that fits that mould.
Comparison: Colton Sissons. Kos isn't going to be a player that you notice on the scoresheets. His value will be in playing hard and making life difficult for the opposing team. A guy you can throw out there later, hoping he can block a shot or work at getting the puck out of the zone.
81. Nashville: Luca Marrelli, D
Yet another boost for their defense, this time it's the right-hand side. Picking up Marrelli at this point in the draft could be a good gamble -- it gives their blueline extra insurance and adds some offensive, two-way depth. They've always put a lot of value on having a stacked defense and it's more of the same.
Comparison: Justin Schultz. Marrelli's a two-way defenseman that makes an excellent first pass, owns good mobility and has potential to slide in a depth defenseman that also plays powerplays.
82. Columbus [from Los Angeles]: Eemil Vinni, G
It's been an up-and-down year for Vinni in Finland. Thankfully, in international play, he's been rock solid. Some believe he could be the best goalie available in the draft, while others remain not so hot. Either way, he's got upside and Columbus grabs him here with the hopes of building goalie depth.
Comparison: Filip Gustavsson. Does he have upside as a starter? Maybe. At minimum, he could be an agile guy that gets some games, which, in the third round, is still a good pick.
83. Detroit: Alexander Zetterberg, LW/C
It's another pick based on familial nepotism. The Zetterberg name continues with the Wings' organization, where Detroit are encouraged to take a chance on him. His lack of size is going to be a detriment and could have him plummeting even further on draft day, but it feels like a quality pick in this region.
Comparison: Tyler Johnson. Standing only 5'7"/5'8" and not being fleet of foot, Zetterberg might be someone that falls on draft day. If not, it's because a team views the skill and puckhandling ability and feel they can coax a higher upside out of him.
84. Philadelphia: Linus Eriksson, C
Making an easy selection, they grab the best center they feel is left on the board. Maybe that could be Eriksson, who's looked like a promising, versatile, jack-of-all trades shutdown center in the Swedish junior leagues.
Comparison: Jack Drury. Blessed with a never quit motor, Eriksson's an aggressive center of average size, who comes to play every night. He'll block shots, work hard and do all the gritty things to help win and produce.
85. Seattle [from Toronto]: Kasper Pikkarainen, RW
Pikkarainen's a big Finnish kid that fits well with New Seattle's desire to get larger upfront. He's got a later birthday, so there's likely more growth and development in his game.
Comparison: Pat Maroon. Pikkarainen's got size and some shooting ability. He'll hope to use his given tools to play in a potential bottom-six role.
86. Tampa Bay: Tomas Galvas, D
If he was larger than 5'10", the Czech defenseman, Galvas, would undoubtedly be a top 40/50 selection. Alas, he stands only 5'10", which might make some teams apprehensive about taking him early. Conversely, he could also be on the way up in rankings after an impressive performance at the World Juniors, where he was called upon and stepped in with little practice, where he performed quite well. Ah, hell, he's a guy made for Tampa Bay, who loves their homerun swings.
Comparison: Jordan Spence. Galvas is a mobile, yet undersized defenseman, who moves pucks with speed and precision, likely having value as a dangerous powerplay threat some day.
87. Vegas: Matvei Babenko, RW
It's a swing for the fences type of selection for the Knights. They could value Babenko's big body and pure scoring abilities, hoping it can work out for the best. The Russian factor is absolutely in play... but there's upside. It's a worthy shot in the 3rd round.
Comparison: Denis Gurianov. A big Russian power winger that loves to shoot and uses his size to protect pucks, Babenko could be someone that flirts with inconsistency and that may scare some teams. Even so, you can't deny the toolset he has.
88. Nashville [from Dallas]: Aatos Koivu, C/LW
Ranked as a late 2nd rounder on Bob McKenzie's list, it seems that Saku's son is moving up on draft boards. They've been dipping their toes into Finnish talent in recent drafts. If Koivu's there, they may went to grab him, hoping he can replicate his father's success.
Comparison: Pius Suter. Koivu's a solid, veratile scoring forward that can slide in at center or on the wing. He's display some well-rounded play, including an ability to absolutely wire one-timers from the top of the circle. He's a nice projectable pickup.
89. St. Louis [from New York Rangers]: Kim Saarinen, G
Needing a goalie prospect, Saarinen could be someone the Blues eyeball at this range. He comes built with natural great size, a perfect fit for the modern goalie and was even named the #1 in Europe by Central Scouting. St. Louis could take a swing here, let him develop overseas for a few years and then see what they have on their hands.
Comparison: Mackenzie Blackwood. If he can turn into a starter remains to be seen. There's a lot of projectability with him, though, especially when it comes to his size and ability to shutdown high-danger chances.
90. Winnipeg: Sebastian Soini, D
They've been known to grab a Finn or two during their semi-recent drafts. If Soini's there, it makes him a perfect selection, especially upon realizing he gives their RHD more depth.
Comparison: Matt Roy. Soini plays a perfect support style of game. He can move pucks along, make a calm first pass, defends well and plays a well-balanced style, allowing him to play lots of minutes.
b]91. Washington [from Boston]:[/b] Brodie Ziemer, RW
Ziemer's capability to be a well-rounded, tenacious threat could have him off the board within this range. The Capitals hope his buzzsaw style of game can translate to the pros, liking his ability to both be a disruptor and a scorer.
Comparison: Blake Coleman. Undersized, yet tenacious winger that works hard every night and goes hard to the net. The type of player that shows up during big-time playoff games.
92. Vancouver: Karl Sterner, RW
Again, the Canucks head back to their stomping ground of Sweden. Karl Sterner could become a nice complementary, goal scoring winger for them. If he's there, it'd be hard to pass on him, as he could become a solid core guy.
Comparison: Yegor Sharangovich. Sterner's a guy with size that likes to shoot the puck. If he can put it all together, he could become a dependable depth goal scorer that flanks a playmaking center.
93. Arizona [from Edmonton]: Eriks Mateiko, LW
It's no secret that Coyotes' GM, Bill Armstrong, likes to draft big players. With Mateiko, he's getting a big winger that can help insulate some of their smaller, skilled guys. The big Latvian is a work in progress.
Comparison: Morgan Barron. Mateiko's a complementary power winger that you staple next to your skilled players to open up room for them. His upside may be more of a role player type... but you never know with big forwards.
94. Carolina: Topias Hynninen, RW
Carolina has historically been pretty friendly to Finnish talent. If Hynninen's there, it just seems like a match made in heaven. While he may be nothing more than a depth forward, he might become a valuable Swiss Army Knife type of forward for the 'Canes if he progresses.
Comparison: Anthony Duclair. Hynninen's got potential to become an energetic, roleplaying winger that loves firing pucks on net. In the future, he could battle for a 2nd/3rd/4th line spot, likely able to be plugged into any line given to him, ala Duclair.
95. Florida: Tomas Lavoie, D
They pickup a big, heavy defenseman from the Q in order to satiate a need for more defensive depth. They probably feel he's someone that's close to competing, even if it's in a depth role.
Comparion: Jake Middleton. Lavoie's a big, mobile shutdown defenseman that hits like a brick wall. Not someone that's going to litter the opposing team's goal with pucks. Moreso a guy that'll make life difficult for opposing teams.
96. Arizona [from Colorado]: Kieron Walton, LW
You can't teach size... and that's what Walton brings. Of course, it's also what the Coyotes love and he's ripe for the taking at this spot. They feel he's the perfect type of player that could supply insulation to their smaller scorers, prompting selecting him off the board.
Comparison: Jordan Greenway. Walton's a huge winger developing in the OHL, who can play a simple puck protection game. He likes putting pucks on net and probably aspires to fight for a depth role at some point.
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ROUND 4
97. Nashville [from Chicago]: Gabriel Frasca, C/RW
An early injury kind of hampered his performance at the start of the year. Fortunately, he's shown improvement as time has moved on. A very worthy pick for the Predators to start the 4th round.
Comparison: Connor McMichael. His ability to play center or wing will be a huge bonus for his draft stock, even if he likely moves to the wing for best deployment. His speed and shooting should make him intriguing for teams.
98. Arizona [from San Jose]: Ben Danford, D
They reinforce their defense, adding a right shooting defenseman such as Danford to help clean up their own end. A case can be made for him as being the best player on the board, with Arizona scooping him up, hoping he can shutdown opponents just as good as he's done in the OHL.
Comparison: Josh Gorges. Danford's a hard-working defensive defenseman, who'll recklessly through his body in front of pucks to block shots; he'll strip opponents of pucks and plays a physical game, keeping pucks out of his zone.
99. Ottawa: Logan Sawyer, LW/C
Playing in the AJHL, a weaker league, might dock some points from him... but he's put up good numbers, has good size and will be attending a good US college program in the fall. Perhaps the Sens takes a swing at him, bolstering their forward ranks.
Comparison: Dominik Kubalik. Sawyer's got some skill, especially in the scoring category. Alas, he's coming from a weaker league and doesn't yet have ideal skating, so he'll take some work. He's a longterm project.
100. Columbus: Luke Osborn, D
They've likely seen a lot of him while watching Andrew Strathmann. As a result, he might be on their board and becomes the 100th player off the board. Being one of the younger draft eligibles, he likely has a lot more growth and development to come, with Columbus being more than willing to give it to him.
Comparison: Alex Martinez. Osburn fits the profile as a puck-moving, mobile defenseman. His two-way play is a work in progress, but as of now, he looks like he's got intriguing upside.
101. Buffalo: Herman Traff, RW
The Sabres have good history with drafting from Sweden. To add to that, they're also looking for some kids with size. Traff could be of service here, with the Sabres enjoying what he could bring to their squad.
Comparison: Juuso Parssinen. Traff is a big, offensive winger that has the potential to add some depth scoring from the wing. His size will get eyes on him, with the hope he can be a guy that also adds depth to a powerplay.
102. Montreal: Ondrej Becher, C
They've been no stranger to drafting overagers. He's coming off a very strong performance at the WJC, helping an underdog Czechia to a bronze medal. The Habs could like his all-out play and ability to battle for pucks, thinking he'd make a nice addition to their core. Furthermore, his ability to drive the play has been one of the main reasons why Terik Parascak has found himself high on draft boards, doing the majority of the lifting for that line.
Comparison: Tommy Novak. After going undrafted last year, Becher's shown an impressive leap in skill and production over the past season. Nothing is more evidenct than with his performance at te World Juniors, where he showed excellent skill and was able to get in there to fight for pucks.
103. Minnesota: Max Plante, RW
Grabbing a local kid that they'll be able to watch develop nearby would be a nice add in this range. He comes with a lot of skill and playmaking ability, which could add some depth offense to their core. He's also one of the best player available, which is a further bonus.
Comparison: Connor Garland. Plante doesn't have highlight reel skating, but he can still produce offense in terms of play creation. Developed well, he could turn into a playmaking 2nd/3rd line winger.
104. Anaheim: Yegor Graf, C/RW
With a pretty well-stocked group, they can afford to take some gambles, including on Russian talent that may be underscouted. One such example could be Yegor Graf, who brings an underrated two-way game to the ice. Thus far, he's been playing well in the MHL and could have some upside, if he decides to make the jump.
Comparison: Nick Bonino. One of the better, unheralded two-way forwards, Graf brings solid defense, along with some really good goal-scoring and play creation ability. He's the type of player you put out when the game is on the line or if you need to defend a lead.
105. Calgary: Will Zellers, LW
Coming from prep school, Zellers has a bit of risk in his game. That said, for a 4th rounder, it's a nice risk to take. At this point, the Flames can afford it, hoping he can keep his goal-scoring curve in development.
Comparison: Frank Vatrano. Zellers is an undersized winger that loves firing pucks on net, trying to create offense. He's a legit prospect and a project that, if given enough time, could pan out.
106. Pittsburgh: Tory Pittner, D
The Pens take whomever feel is the best player available at this point. Pittner might have some shine as a defender that can handle minutes. Those types are always useful, especially when you having an aging defense core.
Comparison: Jake McCabe. Pittner profiles as a defensive that does his job just right. He defends well, can play hard and physical and isn't too shabby at keeping the puck in movement and making the correct first pass.
107. Seattle: Adam Kleber, D
Huge in size, Kleber is 6'5", giving the Kraken another much-needed, sizeable defender. He'll take some time to develop in the NCAA in the coming years, with the Kraken waiting to see what they have on their hands.
Comparison: Michael Kesselring. Kleber's got the size, strength and mobility that teams could really love. He's all-around play makes him very projectable, even if it's as a depth piece.
108. Arizona: Jacob Battaglia, RW
It's been a breakthrough year for Battaglia, whose offense has exploded this year. It might be good enough for the Coyotes to take a chance on him, always loving players that come from NHL bloodlines.
Comparison: Jordan Martinook. Battaglia profiles as a winger that plays a versatile role, filling in on any line to play his game. He works hard, can score goals, goes to the net and can be counted on to add depth scoring.
109. Washington: Justin Poirier, RW
Stricken by his lack of height, he wasn't invited to the Top Prospects Game and could be someone that falls on draft day. With the Caps in need of talent, they take a swing on Poirier, betting on his goal scoring coming through.
Comparison: Viktor Arvidsson. Small, but rambunctious goal-scoring winger. He's either that next Arvidsson-like talent; or an AHL/ECHL type that can't quite crack the big league.
110. St. Louis: Oskar Vuollet, LW
For Vuollet, his play at the Hlinka was fantastic. On the flipside, he's been a little more passive during seasonal play. Having selected a few Swedes last year, the Blues take a shot at him here, hoping he can develop some chemistry with his countrymates.
Comparison: Fabian Zetterlund. Vuollet's a smart, attentive forward, whose main weapons are his hockey IQ and deadly shot. There's upside for him to become a depth winger, but he's also lacking in height.
111. New York Islanders: Colin Ralph, D
Making the leap from prep school, there's some danger with Ralph, who holds the potential to be selected much higher than I have him. At minimum, he adds some depth to the Islanders blueline, which is welcome.
Comparison: Dylan Samberg. Ralph's got the chutzpah to become a defensive defenseman who also moves pucks well out of his own zone.
112. Vancouver [from New Jersey]: Tarin Smith, D
Another criminally undervalued defenseman in this draft is Tarin Smith, who doesn't seem to be getting the love on mainstream lists. He's definitely the type of player that could make a lot of teams feel stupid for passing on him years down the road.
Comparison: Jacob Bernard-Docker. After missing the majority of the 2022-2023 season with an injury, Smith's returned and looked phenomenal for his role. His gave revolves around speed and puck movement, something every team is looking for.
113. Nashville: Ethan Procyszyn, RW/C
An intelligent pivot with good size, Procyszyn is the type of guy you throw out there to work hard, win puck battles, play physical and work powerplays. A guy the Preds will need during playoff runs in order to increase depth.
Comparison: Dakota Joshua. Procynszyn has all the tools to make it as a role-playing type at the top level. He may not be a highlight reel guy. He's moreso a dependable, projectable forward that works hard every time he's on the ice.
114. Los Angeles: Aidan Park, RW/C
A California kid, he grew up playing for the Junior Kings squad. There used to be a ton of hype surrounded him. Alas, his game seems to have plateaued, but the Kings could give him a shot as a hometown boy, looking to put up good numbers and play locally.
Comparison: Luke Kunin. He's got a relentless forecheck and consistent pushes the pace of play. He tries his best to disrupt play and can be both a checker and an offensive forward.
115. Ottawa [from Detroit]: John Whipple, D
He might be considered the best player available at this point. It might be wise for the Sens to grab him, if only to increase their LHD depth, which is already quite strong. As he keeps developing through the college ranks, they'll hope his time with the USNTDP proves to be valuable.
Comparison: Zachary Whitecloud. Whipple's not going to be the next Cale Makaer. He's more likely to be closer to a Whitecloud -- in short, a guy that plays a reliable game. He's steady on the backend, can play phyicals and blocks shots, doing the hard things needed to win.
116. Philadelphia: Tuomas Suoniemi, C/LW
After a standout showing at the previous Hlinka, his stock has kind of taken a hit as the year has progressed. Nonetheless, he might be a nice pickup for the Flyers in this range, who hope he can turn his production around.
Comparison: Denis Malgin. Even though Suoniemi's not the biggest, he makes up for it with his puckhandling ability, faceoff skill and potential.
117. Toronto: Francesco Dell'Elce, D
Inexplicably undrafted last year, Dell'Elce goes off the board here, showing quality upside in both seasonal play and during rooking training camps last year. The Leafs could like that he's a little older, hoping he can sooner contribute to a team that's already in the playoff hunt. Once his BCHL season is over, he'll attend the University of Massachusetts, where his development can be monitored.
Comparison: Alex Goligoski. Dell'Elce is a mobile and effective defenseman that's excellent at moving puck up the ice and keeping things in momentum.
118. Ottawa [from Tampa Bay]: Caleb Heil, G
Another University of North Dakota bound kid. Perhaps the new regime will continue with the tradition of UND kids. If so, Heil would be a nice option in this range. It gives them another body that could compete for the net in the future.
Comparison: Jake Allen. He's got decent size, good flexibility and reaction. There's potential for him to at least work as a back-up, if need be, with his technical skill and athleticism making a fine combination.
119. San Jose [from Vegas]: Anthony Romani, RW/C
Adding an overager, the Sharks think/hope Romani's scoring skill can translate when he makes the jump. They need the scoring talent - and with Romani's breakout this year, he could be jumping up lists.
Comparison: Daniel Sprong. Romani's biggest asset is his sharpshooting ability. Even so, he's also got a respectable playmaking game, which a team should love, as he works a powerplay.
120. Detroit [from Dallas]: Arsen Taimazov, D
A way to fortify their defense, the Wings grab Taimazov out of Russia. Perhaps there's a future where he helps balance out a defense unit with Axel Sandin-Pellikka, using his tranquil shutdown presence to calm things.
Compaison: Andrew Peeke. As a shutdown defenseman, he'll attempt to make the easy plays, kill penalties and work a defensive, smothering style to help his team.
121. New York Rangers: Brendan McMorrow, RW
The Rangers like drafting from the USNTDP. McMorrow could be someone they target at this point. At minimum, it's more depth for their right wing, giving them an energy forward that can help with playoff runs.
Comparison: Nicolas Aube Kubel. McMorrow's a depth plug and play winger that goes hard every shift. He's got some grit to his game and it could allow him to add some supplementary offense.
122. Winnipeg: Javon Moore, LW
Moore's playing Minnesota high school hockey, so there may be some apprehension from teams wanting to take him high. However, in the 4th round, the Jets stick to their guns and take a big winger from the American systems, something they have history of selecting.
Comparison: Ilya Mikheyev. It's hard to give a good estimation for Moore. Maybe, at best, he's something like Mikheyev, a middle-six type of speedy winger with good size that works various roles. He feels like a complementary winger.
123. Boston: Mans Toresson, C/LW
In recent history, the Bruins have gone to Sweden to look for prospects. They retain that strategy by grabbing Toresson, who's shown the potential to become a center at the pro-level. His hard-working style could be a help to the Bruins, who need more depth in that area.
Comparison: Sean Kuraly. At his best, he could become a hard-working center/winger that can play a checking role and play in a multitude of roles, including as a penalty killer.
124. Vancouver: Carter George, G
George's lack of size might be concerning, resulting in him falling down the board a little. With the Canucks looking for some long-term depth, George could be an option at this point. Let him play out in the OHL, bring him into the AHL and then give him a few years to develop there.
Comparison: Phillip Grubauer. What George lacks in size, he makes up for in technique and athleticism. He's a guy that can steal games when it's needed; but could wear down with too much use.
125. Nashville [from Edmonton]: Alexandre Blais, LW
Playing in the Q, it's hard to get a perfect read of Blais's potential. The Preds are willing to give him a chance, though, liking his pure skill and playmaking ability. It feels like the type of boom/bust selection they'd make in the mid-rounds.
Comparison: Jonatan Berggren. A versatile speedster with loads of playmaking skill and offense. He's a boom or bust type. If he finds the consistency to overcome his lack of size, he could work out in the end.
126. Carolina: Jack Berglund, LW/C
The Hurricanes need more size and "smash" in their lineup. Berglund is a good first step for this. He's someone that might step into their bottom-six/bottom-three, adding some "oomph".
Comparison: Oskar Sundkvist. Berglund's a versatile, physical forward that can play a depth role for any team. His offense may be limited, with his strength being the physical and defensive side of the game.
127. Florida: Noel Fransen, D
For some crazy reason, Fransen's going unranked by mainstream lists despite putting up stellar numbers in Sweden. Maybe the Panthers claim him, hoping to sneakily walk away with a steal.
Comparison: Erik Gustafsson. At the very least, Fransen's an offensive defenseman that can man the point on a powerplay and put up good numbers through his offensive work.
128. Colorado: Pavel Moysevich, G
A draft re-entry, Moysevich is an overager, who probably doesn't get passed on again. The Avs, who are looking for some homeruns, decide to grab onto him, thinking he has upside to be a potential starter.
Comparison: Darcy Kuemper. At 6'5", Moysevich has the towering size teams love from their goalies. That aspect alone could get him moving up certain team's list, with everyone wanting to find the next diamond in the rough goaltender.
Just missing the cut: Heikki Ruohonen; Mac Swanson; Artyom Schuchinov; William McIsaac; Andrei Krutov; Eric Burger; Christopher Thibodeau; Lukas Matecha; Miroslav Holinka; Austin Baker; Felix Lacerte; Jakub Fibigr; Christian Kirsch; Fyodor Avramov; etc.
SUMMARY
Anaheim
---
4. Artyom Levshunov, RD
35. Cole Beaudoin, C/RW
59. Adam Jecho, RW/C
66. Stian Solberg, LD
67. Christian Humpreys, C/RW
74. Ryerson Leenders, G
104. Yegor Graf, C/RW
Arizona
---
12. Cole Eiserman, LW
44. Yegor Surin, RW/C
45. Lukas Fischer, LD
63. Timur Kol, LD
76. Evan Gardner, G
93. Eriks Mateiko, LW
96. Kieron Walton, LW/RW
98. Ben Danford, RD
108. Jacob Battaglia, RW
Boston
---
123. Mans Toresson, C
Buffalo
---
6. Sam Dickinson, LD
38. Nikita Artamonov, RW
70. Nathan Villeneuve, C
101. Herman Traff, RW
Calgary
---
9. Tij Iginla, LW/RW
41. Henry Mews, RD
73. Spencer Gill, RD
105. Will Zellers, LW
Carolina
---
30. Jett Luchanko, RW/C
52. Matvei Gridin, RW/LW
62. Daniil Ustinkov, LD
94. Topias Hynninen, RW
126. Jack Berglund, LW/C
Chicago
---
3. Cayden Lindstrom, C/LW
22. Colton Roberts, RD
33. Tanner Howe, LW
50. Carson Wetsch, RW
60. Marek Vanacker, LW
65. Julius Miettinen, RW/C
68. Nicholas Kempf, G
Colorado
---
32. Dean Letourneau, C
128. Pavel Moysevich, G
Columbus
---
1. Macklin Celebrini, C
69. Veeti Vaisanen, LD
82. Eemil Vinni, G
100. Luke Osborn, LD
Dallas
---
24. Beckett Sennecke, RW/LW
56. Luke Misa, C/RW
Detroit
---
19. Igor Chernyshov, LW/RW
51. Simon Zether, C/RW
83. Alexander Zetterberg, LW
120. Arsen Taimazov, RD
Edmonton
---
29. Jesse Pulkkinen, LD
61. Sam O'Reilly, RW
Florida
---
95. Tomas Lavoie, RD
127. Noel Fransen, LD
Los Angeles
---
18. Emil Hemming, RW
114. Aidan Park, C/RW
Minnesota
---
8. Zeev Buium, LD
40. John Mustard, LW
103. Max Plante, RW
Montreal
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7. Ivan Demidov, RW
64. Raoul Broillard, C/LW
71. Harrison Brunicke, RD
72. Lucas Van Vliet, LW/C
102. Ondrej Becher, C
Nashville
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17. Liam Greentree, RW
54. Will Skahan, LD
58. Teddy Stiga, LW
81. Luca Marrelli, RD
88. Aatos Koivu, C/LW
97. Gabriel Frasca, RW/C
113. Ethan Procyszyn, RW/C
125. Alexandre Blais, LW
New Jersey
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16. Michael Brandsegg-Nygard, RW
48. Maxim Masse, RW
80. Ondrej Kos, LW
New York Islanders
---
15. Trevor Connelly, LW
47. Aron Kiviharju, LD
111. Colin Ralph, LD
New York Rangers
---
25. Matvei Shuravin, LD
57. Melvin Fernstrom, RW/LW
121. Brendan McMorrow, RW
Ottawa
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5. Carter Yakemchuk, RD
27. EJ Emery, RD
36. Sacha Boisvert, C
99. Logan Sawyer, LW
115. John Whipple, LD
118. Caleb Heil, G
Philadelphia
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20. Ryder Ritchie, RW/C
31. Michael Hage, C
37. Alfons Freij, LD
84. Linus Eriksson, C
116. Tuomas Suoniemi, C/LW
Pittsburgh
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10. Beckly Catton, C/LW
42. Leo Sahlin Wallenius, LD
106. Tory Pittner, RD
San Jose
---
2. Anton Silayev, LD
34. Kamil Bednarik, C
49. Jack Pridham, RW
119. Anthony Romani, RW/C
Seattle
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11. Konsta Helenius, C/RW
43. Gabriel Eliasson, LD
75. Leon Muggli, LD
85. Kasper Pikkarainen, RW
107. Adam Kleber, RD
St. Louis
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14. Adam Jiricek, RD
46. Miguel Marques, LW/RW
53. Cole Hutson, LD
78. Maximillian Curran, C
89. Kim Saarinen, G
110. Oskar Vuollet, LW
Tampa Bay
---
86. Tomas Galvas, LD
Toronto
---
21. Charlie Elick, RD
79. Riley Patterson, C/RW
117. Francesco Dell'Elce, LD
Vancouver
---
28. Lucas Pettersson, C/LW
92. Karl Sterner, RW
112. Tarin Smith, LD
124. Carter George, G
Vegas
---
23. Andrew Basha, LW
55. Ollie Josephson, LW/C
87. Matvei Babenko, RW
Washington
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13. Zayne Parekh, RD
77. Clarke Caswell, LW
91. Brodie Ziemer, RW
109. Justin Poirier, RW
Winnipeg
---
26. Dominik Badinka, RD
39. Terik Parascak, RW
90. Sebastian Soini, RD
122. Javon Moore, LW
>> I'm going to do 4 rounds for now. When we get to the spring, I'll probably do an extra round; until finally, we get to my final full year end mock draft.
>> The draft order is based on league standings as per my cut-off date of Friday, Januay 26th. It's also a post-playoff format, in which I predict the ECF/WCF finalists and Cup winner.
>> For the East, I'm predicting Florida beats Carolina to move on to the finals for the 2nd year in a row. For the West, I'm predicting an Edmonton-Colorado showdown, with the Avs outlasting the Oilers in the long run. Finally, I have Colorado taking the Cup and winning it all again, giving the Panthers another year of heartbreak.
>> As always, I'm not a scout -- I don't get to see every player, it's just not feasible. Take all comparisons and everything else lightly.
>> Lottery results, as per tankathon: 1. Columbus; 2. San Jose.
---
ROUND ONE
1. Columbus: Macklin Celebrini, C
After lucking into Adam Fantilli last year, they could win the lottery this year and luck their way into adding Celebrini as well. It'd be a huge gain for their center core, with both Celebrini and Fantilli, both ideal #1 centers, being their guys of the future. It's definitely a great situation to be in, especially knowing how well Celebrini has been tearing up the NCAA this year.
Comparison: He's sort of a Nathan MacKinnon-meets-Joe Pavelski type. While he skates better than Pavelski, he doesn't quite meet the MacKinnon-level bursts of blazing speed, nor does he have the same impactful offensive output... but there's some excellent two-way smarts, shooting skill and ability to go to the hard areas to produce. Maybe not a generational type, but a solid #1 center of the future with a hunger to win.
2. San Jose: Anton Silayev, D
If the Sharks don't get that 2nd first rounder from Pittsburgh, they may opt to grab a defenseman at the 2nd overall mark. Silayev started the year extremely hot, but has seen his production kind of plateau as of late. That said, with his size, skating and ability to produce, he has a lite-version of Victor Hedman type of potential, which might be difficult for the Sharks to pass on, considering their blueline.
Comparison: Jay Bouwmeester.. but with a few more inches in size. Lofty names such as Hedman and Chara have been thrown about, but I'm not sure he could ever reach them. He's probably something more akin to a Bouwmeester -- big, fast, mobile for his size defenseman, with a long reach that can allow him to dominate at both ends of the ice.
3. Chicago: Cayden Lindstrom, C/LW
Thanks to his combined talent, size and physical tools, Lindstrom's found himself rocketing up draft lists. He might be a perfect fit for the Blackhawks, who'd love to add some size to their forward core, seconding Connor Bedard. Whether he plays as a wing or center, his size would be a welcome addition, giving them something they highly need.
Comparison: Tage Thompson. Lindstrom's a big shoot-first forward, who is also blessed with a bevy of physical tools. He can be a presence in front of the net, while also making life difficult for his opponents in the corners and along the boards.
4. Anaheim: Artyom Levshunov, D
In the past, the Ducks may have shied away from Russian or Belarussian talent. However, now that they're under a new regime, things take anoter turn, with Pavel Mintyukov, for example, already finding a home there. With the numbers he's putting up, it'd honestly be hard to pass on him. After trading Jamie Drysdale for Cutter Gauthier, there's likely a spot open on the right side, with Levshunov and the Ducks blowing other teams out of the water within the next 5 years.
Comparison: Zach Werenski. As one of the NCAA's youngest players, he's put up fantastic numbers for Michigan State's blueline as a pure offensive defenseman. He's a defender that plays a roving style, loving to put up numbers from the backend.
5. Ottawa: Carter Yakemchuk, D
Alrght, let's make it fun here. Yakemchuk is definitely a kid that's on the rise. It's a new regime, so let's get funky in Ottawa. They've got a well-built forward core. They could go for a big right-shooting defenseman with physicality and-- hey, that's an apt description of Yakemchuk, who I'm quite high on. Pair him with Jake Sanderson as a safety net, then unleash him, for best possible outcomes.
Comparison: Brent Burns. Like Burns, Yakemchuk's a mobile, offense-first defenseman that can sometimes give up positioning in order to bring offense from the point, along with some heavy, physical play. There's some chaos in his game, but when he's producing he's got top pairing potential.
6. Buffalo: Sam Dickinson, D
They've gone forward-heavy with their recent drafting. At this point, they could take the best defenseman left on the board, loving Dickinson's potential. He's someone that can help keep pucks oot of their end and out of their net, which is a perfect fit for what they desire.
Comparison: Jake Sanderson. Dickinson's a puck-smothering, mobile defenseman that plays an incredibly solid, lockdown game. Not only does he utilize physicality, he also uses excellent skating ability to chase down pucks and close gaps, making him a potential top pairing/top 4 shutdown defender.
7. Montreal: Ivan Demidov, RW
With the way he's currently playing, Demidov is certainly someone in contention to go 2nd overall. The things playing against him are his lack of size, Russian factor and the fact that he's a winger, with teams choosing defense/centers over him. For the Habs, they'd be thrilled to grab him at this point, giving them a skilled, all-out attacking forward that's sorely missing in their system.
Comparison: Artemi Panarin. Demidov's, without a doubt, an elite, game-breaking talent. He's got the skating, the skill, the IQ to become a star winger in the league. With his size and the Russian factor in play, it's just up to debate where his draft range is.
8. Minnesota: Zeev Buium, D
Having gone forward-heavy in recent drafts, they aim for defense with their selection this year. Buium's putting up historic numbers in the NCAA and is coming off an impressive performance at the World Juniors, which could propel him into top 10 consideration. The Wild could hope he can commandeer their blueline for the next decade.
Comparison: Kris Letang. Bringing incredible composure, balance and skill, Buium can be a point-producing defenseman that leans into the offensive side of the game. His two-way skill gives him top-line/top-four potential, which is something any team could love.
9. Calgary: Tij Iginla, LW/RW
Yes, it's Jarome's son; and no, I don't think the Flames can afford to let him drop past them. Imagine the headlines if he goes to another team and torches the Flames. Young for the draft, Tij is absolutely top 10 worthy and has done nothing but improve his game all season long. If he keeps this pace of improvement, he could be a pretty lethal top six forward.
Comparison: Filip Forsberg. Not quite at the level of his father's power forward style, Iginla could be more like a Filip Forsberg, whose scoring and versatility make him a tremendous top-six player. He scores, he hits, he has a good well-rounded game, he's an elite-level of Swiss Army Knife that can even play center.
10. Pittsburgh: Berkly Catton, C/LW
Knowing that the Penguins only retained the pick due to finishing within the top 10, Kyle Dubas would frankly love to walk out with the best talent available. In this case, I could see him valuing someone like Catton quite highly. With guys like Malkin and Crosby getting older, they're going to need offensive studs sooner rather than later.
Comparison: Claude Giroux. A zone-entry machine, Catton's someone that'd probably flirt with top 5 status if he wasn't under 6 feet. He loves cutting to the middle, firing pucks on the ice and can be a playmaking wizard with the puck. Whether he sticks at center remains to be seen, but he's got dynamic puck skill and a great mind for the game.
11. Seattle: Konsta Helenius, C/RW
Ron Francis drafted Sebastian Aho when he was the Hurricanes's organization. It just feels right for him to select Helenius, a similar type of heedy talent that gets by on his hockey IQ, here. He'd probably fit in well with the type of game the Kraken try to play, as well.
Comparison: Nick Suzuki. As stated, Helenius is a high-IQ forward, who uses that fact to produce. He can create plays, shoots well and navigates around the ice in a well-rounded manner. What he lacks in size, he can make up for with his hockey brain.
12. Arizona: Cole Eiserman, LW
Coming into this season, Eiserman was touted as someone that could content with Macklin Celebrini for first overall. Unfortunately, there's been concerns with his defensive play, consistency and how useful he is when he isn't shooting the puck. That said, he has the best shooting skill in the draft, still making him a very dangerous forward for the Coyotes, who think he'd make an excellent linemate for Logan Cooly.
Comparison: Phil Kessel/Patrik Laine. When he isn't producing offense, Eiserman's kind of a floaty and turnover prone winger. However, there's no denying that his release is and he has a knack for goal scoring. He's someone that'll need to be insulated, but could pay dividends if a team is patient.
13. Washington: Zayne Parekh, D
Seemingly focused on selecting Canadian talent as of late, the Caps could walk out with Zayne Parekh, the offense-first defenseman that's been dominating at te OHL level. Putting up huge goal scoring numbers, he's looked like an offensive dynamo, who could even challenge for a top 5-10 selection if he continues at his torrid pace.
Comparison: Mike Green. Like Mike Green, Parekh's a player that focuses solely on offense, sometimes even at the detriment of his defense. He's got high quality instincts, though, so it should help him navigate his way into and through the pro ranks.
14. St. Louis: Adam Jiricek, D
Going for need, they focus on defense, taking Jiricek, who was once thought of as a top 10 selection. Some concerns, along with a longterm injury at the WJC's, have dropped him... but teams could still take a chance. He's the younger brother of Columbus's player, David Jiricek, so they grab him, liking his pedigree.
Comparison: Cam Fowler. He may not have the higher potential as his older brother, but he still profiles as a decently sized defenseman that skates really well and can aide in transition. He may be more of a 2nd pairing guy, if anything.
15. New York Islanders: Trevor Connelly, LW
Going for "BPA" at this point, the Isles calmly and simply select Trevor Connelly, whose skills and speed would be a major boost to their group of forwards. The Islanders would hope he can learn a few things from Mat Barzal, who can take him under his tutelage.
Comparison: Jonathan Huberdeau. I could see him develop into a Huberdeau-like player. Namely a winger with blistering speed that brings excellent puck control, playmaking and scoring. In terms of weight, he's a little small, definitely needing to bulk up, which could hinder him if he doesn't gain strength.
16. New Jersey: Michael Brandsegg-Nygard, RW
Concerns over his overall scoring could cost him a top 15 spot. Alternatively, some team could love his package and tools, taking him fairly high. With the Devils needing guys that can play on the inside, providing a power forward role, Nygard would make an exemplary selection.
Comparison: Gabriel Landeskog-lite. At his best, whether it's as a top-six guy or a bottom-nine role player, he could become a physical force on the ice, with strong leadership qualities and a tenacious will to win. His ability to slide up and down the lines make him a tremendous asset.
17. Nashville: Liam Greentree, RW
Seeing Greentree still on board, they hope all over him, liking in him the same things that they saw in Wood last year. Greentree, like Wood, plays a similar style of game, right on down to the poorer skating skills, yet bring a load of offensive talent.
Comparison: Jason Robertson. Not fleet of foot whatsoever, Greentree's got skating issues he needs to figure out. Nevertheless, he's shown incredible hockey IQ, playmaking skills and can absolutely wire the puck. There's a good chance he could contend for a top 10 selection if he works on his skating.
18. Los Angeles: Emil Hemming, RW
They've been no stranger to drafting Europeans. Someone such as Emil Hemming could be of interest, feeling as if he'd make a good fit to play alongside Quinton Byfield. Even if he doesn't become a top liner, he still has the speed and goal scoring ability to work in a middle-six role.
Comparison: Adrian Kempe. Hemming's a big, strong, speedy winger that shoots first and asks questions later, both for better and for worse. There's versatility in his game that makes him useful in many roles.
19. Detroit: Igor Chernyshov, LW/RW
The Russian factor could slip Chernyshov down the board from where he should/could go. If so, the Wings would be wise to pick him here, giving them a big, powerful winger that they could use to complement some of their skilled guys. There's uncertainty about his true upside, with questions abound where he can play in a top-nine, with the Wings willing to take a chance on him to strengthen their forwards.
Comparison: Alex Tuch. Chernyshov's a big power winger that plays an old school type of game. He's a two-way, physical force that can also add some secondary offense and provides good results in terms of defense.
20. Philadelphia: Ryder Ritchie, RW/C
Inconsistency and injuries have put a plague on his season thus far. Once he's fully recovered, he has the chance to boost his stock, hopefully fighting his way back into top 20 contention. Otherwise, the Flyers could jump on him, enabling them to take a chance on a high-upside, skilled forward, hoping to replace a talent such as Cutter Gauthier.
Comparison: Jordan Kyrou. At his best, Ritchie plays with a ton of speed; brings a versatile, well-rounded game; and can score goals as well as he can set-up plays. A potential top 6 forward that can do a little of everything, who has some tenacity in his game.
21. Toronto: Charlie Elick, D
It wouldn't shock me if they wanted to grab some defense this draft. It also wouldn't surprise me if they take someone that's difficult to play against, as evidenced by recent drafts. Elick could be someone they can step in soon and provide, even if it's in a depth role, making him valuable for playoff runs.
Comparison: Jake Muzzin. Elick's a hard-nosed defender that excels in a shutdown role. His main problem comes when he has to handle the puck, not exactly a stalwart in terms of defense. He could/should be a guy that makes life difficult on opponents, however.
22. Chicago [from Tampa Bay]: Colton Roberts, D
An impressive showing at the CHL's Top Prospect Game may have opened the eyes of scouts in his direction. Standing 6'4" and owning excellent mobility, the Hawks head back to the WHL to select him, liking what he could bring their blueline. In a perfect world, he becomes a valuable defender to play alongside Kevin Korchinski. If not, he could still turn into a valuable depth guy.
Comparison: K'Andre Miller. Roberts combines his mobility and puck movement skill with his physical tools, making him a complementary defenseman with upside. There's potential for him to play a middle-pairing role, along with obviously working special teams.
23. Vegas: Andrew Basha, LW
Basha is exactly the type of high-energy forward the Golden Knights relied upon to win the Stanley Cup last year. They feel he'd make a perfect fit for the style of game they like to play, thereby swiftly scooping him off the board.
Comparison: Ondrej Palat. Basha's a workhorse, playmaking winger that comes at you fast and hard. He's a versatile, complementary piece that can potentially work on any line, can slot into various roles and is a monster on transitioning pucks.
24. Dallas: Beckett Sennecke, RW/LW
They have quite a history of drafting out of the OHL. They go back there, taking him from Guelph, where they go hope he can develop into a strong winger for them. His recent growth spurt, which witnessed him going from 5'10" to 6'3", has left him a little clunky on his feet, with Dallas ready to give him time to find his bearings.
Comparison: Matthew Knies. Still growing into his frame, Sennecke profiles as a complementary winger with size, who can add supplementary offense and delivers good all-around skill.
25. New York Rangers: Matvei Shuravin, D
The Rangers could go for defense by selecting Shuravin, the big, steady defenseman from Russia. He's looked promising in the KHL, which bodes well for his draft positioning. It would't shock me if another team even takes a chance at him much earlier.
Comparison: Mattias Ekholm. Shuravin's a smothering shutdown defenseman that uses his long reach and size to his advantage. He can pokecheck away pucks, get things turning in the opposite direction and can disrupt plays coming towards his own end.
26. Winnipeg: Dominik Badinka, D
Considering their strong European scouting, someone like Badinka might be of interest. Not only does he fill a need for RHD depth on their blueline, he offers puck retrieval and transitioning skills from the backend, which would be a welcome addition.
Comparison: Brady Skjei. Badinka's a big, 6'3" defenseman that skates pretty well, is great along the boards and can keep pucks in motion back up the ice. He could challenge for a two-way, mid-pairing/top 4 role at some point.
27. Ottawa [from Boston]: EJ Emery, D
In recent years, the Sens have used the University of North Dakota as their grooming grounds. With Emery headed there in the fall, he'd make a really nice pickup here for them. Not only does he offer stabilizing defensive depth, but he fits a need for their backend. With both Levshunov and Emery, they get a little bit of everything, which should re-stock their RHD depth for a few years.
Comparison: Brett Pesce. Emery's not going to be someone that "wow"'s you. Instead, he'll play a calm, focused, steady game, help protect leads and is adept at shutting down opponents. The type of player you win with.
28. Vancouver: Lucas Pettersson, C/LW
Coming from Sweden and playing for Modo, it's a good bet that Petterson's on their radar. They can scoop him up here, hoping he adds some depth down the middle, with the thought he can become a middle-six some day. He'll need seasoning, but the potential is there.
Comparison: William Karlsson. Pettersson's a potential #2/3 center that plays a calm, collected, well-balanced and swift game down the middle. His offensive skill is pretty good, often leaning more towards setting up teammates, while also owning some nice shooting skill. There's captain material there.
29. Edmonton: Jesse Pulkkinen, D
If the Oilers keep this pick, they should swing for the fences. With few picks, they could go homerun swinging, with Pulkkinen being the first of those type of swings. Passed over last year, the Finnish defenseman is 6'6" and has put up very respectable numbers overseas.
Comparison: Colton Parayko. With his combination of size, reach and skating, something like Parayko is probably his best possible outcome. As an overager, it might be a lofty comparable, but there's potential. He just needs to work on his defensive game because there's a lot of other high end tools in his skillset.
30. Carolina: Jett Luchanko, RW/C
This feels exactly like the type of selection the Hurricanes love to make. Luchanko isn't the largest player on the ice, but he brings a boatload of talent and two-way savvy. The fact that he can even play center also makes him a very sexy selection for them.
Comparison: Jaden Schwartz. Luchanko, like Schwartz, is a lightweight, who stands 5'10". What he lacks in size, he makes up for in talent, two-way positioning and spirit, which could turn him into a valuable top-nine forward.
31. Philadelphia [from Florida]: Michael Hage, C
Needing some center depth, the Flyers could gamble on Hage, hoping it pays off. It's been a rough year for him, but he's got talent and they hope he can become a middle-six offensive center. If he can get back in form, he's a nice swing.
Comparison: Nich Schmaltz. Armed with good playmaking skill and offensive talent, Hage is someone that could challenge for a #2 center role. If not, a team could shift him to the wing, where he also produces quite well in a top six.
32. Colorado: Dean Letourneau, C
A giant on the ice, Letourneau's a guy whose position is all over the place. With the Avalanche wanting some center depth, they could take a crack at home, keeping a close eye on the 6'7" as he goes to college next year. He's a boom or bust type, with the Avs obviously hoping he turns into a Tage Thompson type.
Comparison: Michae; Rasmussen. It remains to be seen exactly what Letourneau's potential is. As a prospect, he's kind of a unicorn -- a huge 6'7", whose presence and reach upfront can be beast-like. That said, if he's offense doesn't develop, he could be someone that's destined for a bottom-six role.
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ROUND 2
33. Chicago: Tanner Howe, LW
There's a connection there with Connor Bedard that they might want to reignite. As Bedard's linemate, they put up explosive numbers and it might prompt them to want to reunite that duo. Howe may not be performing up to expectations this year, hence his drop in the rankings, but he's still got upside as an aggressive forward with some complementary skill.
Comparison: Robby Fabbri. Howe's an undersized, aggressive forward that works extremely hard on the ice. He goes to the danger areas to produce and can be someone you put out to play in all situations.
34. San Jose: Kamil Bednarik, C
With Bednarik heading to Boston University next fall, it definitely has him on the radar for the Sharks, who have plenty of Boston connections. A guy like Bednarik would be a good add for center depth, which is something that needed to be worked on.
Comparison: Philip Danault. Bednarik isn't someone that's going to be a top line guy. He's going to be someone you put out in difficult situations to try and defend leads and play hard. He battles in the danger areas and works had every time he's on the ice.
35. Anaheim: Cole Beaudoin, C/RW
Beaudoin's not a "pretty pick", but he's been working his way up boards thanks to his determined and gritty play in the OHL. With Anaheim's deck fully stacked in terms of talent, they may want to add some character guys to help fill out their roster. Beaudoin would be a perfect fit for that.
Comparison: Boone Jenner. Beaudoin isn't the fastest or the flashiest. What he does is crash bodies, work hard, out-work opponents and play with physicality, while armed with some good shooting ability.
36. Ottawa: Sacha Boisvert, C
They again look towards North Dakota, taking Canadian-born center, Sacha Boisvert, who's percolating in the American collegiate system. It's has been a perfect season for him, which is why the 6'2" center is available here in the early 2nd, with the Senators happily taking him off the board.
Comparison: Shane Pinto. Boisvert's got size and skill... however, it remains to be seen just how high his overall upside is. He may settle in as a 3rd line center role, but he could/should become a decent complementary player, who can also score goals.
37. Philadelphia [from Columbus]: Alfons Freij, D
After taking 2 forwards in the first, they decide to go with defense for their 2nd round selection, in order to keep a nice balance. The Swedes's two-way game should be a good addition to the Flyers's current crop of defensive prospects, with his ability to move pucks being highly valued.
Comparison: Rasmus Andersson. While I don't know if he'll have the same development curve as Andersson, Freij play a similar style of puck-moving game, focusing on both offense and defense.
38. Buffalo: Nikita Artamonov, RW
In terms of value, Artamonov's a surefire first rounder. However, I suspect scouts will be wary because he's undersized and Russian, which could see him fall into the 2nd round. A brave team such as Buffalo, who place a high value into analytics, could take him, like they have with previous falling, undersized forwards.
Comparison: Jesper Bratt. Artamonov has one of the highest engines in the draft. He never stops working hard and goes to the high-danger areas, where he's shown a nice ability to put pucks in dangerous areas. A valuable, well-rounded asset that can play any role given to him.
39. Winnipeg [from Montreal]: Terik Parascak, RW
Parascak has exploded offensively this year. Apprehensions about his skating remain, however, with the Jets willing to take a chance. There's a chance some team could take a chance on him in the firt -- but if not, the Jets would be happy to take him in the 2nd.
Comparison: Jordan Eberle. Something like Eberle is probably his upside. Think of him as a player who isn't the tallest or fastest, who makes up for that with his high IQ play and skill.
40. Minnesota: John Mustard, LW
The Wild are a savvy drafting team and they could take him here. For whatever reason, John Mustard is getting underrated on draft lists, with the Wild happy to take him here, loving his ability to come down off the rush and play a power game. Whether he plays top/middle/bottom-six is all dependant on how the Wild development, but he's capable of either role.
Comparison: Jason Zucker. Mustard's a fast, aggressive winger that's more of a shoot-first type than a passer. He likes firing rubber on net and can be versatile in his useability.
41. Calgary: Henry Mews, D
In order to keep their depth on the right side strong, they grab RHD, Henry Mews. He came into the year thought of as a high-end first rounder. Unfortunately, he's met some challenges and things he needs to work. The Flames could take a chance on him, hoping he can keep improving and work their blueline in the future.
Comparison: Vince Dunn. Mews is a mobile, puck-transitioning defenseman that can lean into offense. He's a work-in-progress, though. He'll need some time to develop and work on his overall to hopefully contribute in some fashion to a pro club.
42. Pittsburgh: Leo Sahlin Wallenius, D
Wallenius is another first round level of talent that drops solely due to size. If I'm the Pens, I'm thrilled to get him here, knowing that a potential mid-pair defenseman that can also work powerplays is in your lap can be a very useful weapon.
Comparson: Cam York. Playing a game based upon his skating, Wallenius can be a little reckless at times. This recklessness can also be to a team's benefit, as it can allow him to turn off the jets to supply offense from the back.
43. Seattle: Gabriel Eliasson, D
Size likely gets Eliasson drafted much higher than expected. Standing 6'6", the Kraken have shown a liking towards large defenseman and he could be within their wheelhouse, feelig he's the perfect addition to their blueline.
Comparison: Alex Vlasic. Eliasson fits the mould of a huge, shutdown defenseman, who can also keep up with the pace of play. His long reach shoul allow him to strip pucks from opponents and keep pucks out of own zone.
44. Arizona: Yegor Surin, RW/C
Knowing that the area goes undercouted due to global affairs, the Coyotes cashed in on some Russian talent last year. They could do the same here by taking Surin, who's been an absolute pest to play against in the Russian junior leagues.
Comparison: Max Domi. He's like Max Domi, but in a larger frame, with a similar temperament. He's excellent at making plays. He hits like a truck. He's a pest on the ice and makes like difficult for opposing players. A guy with 2nd line upside, who other players hate playing against.
45. Arizona [from Washington]: Lukas Fischer, D
They've been explicit in liking players that come from quality bloodlines in the past. Someone such as Fischer makes sense for them due to the family ties, along with their inherent love of players with size. Add both things together and it feels like a natural fit.
Comparison: Brenden Dillon. For a big kid, who's still growing, Fischer moves extraordinarily well. He's able to play physical and is no slouch as keeping pucks in momentum back up the ice. He's a well-rounded defenseman that could play a solid depth role.
46. St. Louis: Miguel Marques, LW/RW
Some rankings have him listed within the first round range. For a mid-2nd round selection, Marques is quality value. The Blues would likely be happy to take him here, hoping they can develop him into a top-six offensive winger with some versatility.
Comparison: Troy Terry. Marques is the type of winger that comes with a lot of skill, in terms of both shooting and playmaking. His drawback is that he's not the biggest -- and that could knock him down draft lists.
47. New York Islanders: Aron Kiviharju, D
Coming into the year, the cerebral defenseman, Aron Kiviharju, was hailed as a high first round selection -- perhaps even top 5. Sadly, his longterm injury, along with early season woes have seemingly dealt him a bad hand. After he had such glowing previous years, the Islanders feel like a team that's willing to give him a shot at redemption in the coming years.
Comparison: Lubomir Visnovsky. As a smaller and slower defenseman, it's hard to gauge Kiviharju's true worth and potential. At his best, maybe something like a Visnovsky is his upside. Not only is size a concern, but so will be injuries.
48. New Jersey: Maxim Masse, RW
Masse is another kid that came into the season with a lot of hype, yet failed to nail down that first round status. If the Devils can select him here, they'd probably be thrilled, hoping and feeling he can turn things around in the QMJHL in the coming years.
Comparison: Alex Killorn. Profiles as a middle line, shooting winger that can play with some tenacity and two-way smarts. There's consistency and compete issues that he needs to work on, too.
49. San Jose [from Nashville]: Jack Pridham, RW
Pridham's another talent that'll be attending BU in the fall, once he finishes in the BCHL. As such, I'll keep their trend going, with Mike Griere hoping to keep the kids together in order to develop within their system.
Comparison: Brandon Saad. He's a big bodied winger with good speed and scoring talent off the wing. He may be able to use these talents as a complementary winger that can hopefully play a middle-six.
50. Chicago [from Los Angeles]: Carson Wetsch, RW
Adding a big, bruising winger such as Wetsch might be a good option to go along with some of their smaller, skilled guys that they have in development. At minimum, he's someone that could play a bottom-six depth role; or someone you throw out alongside Connor Bedard as a bit of protection.
Comparison: Will Cuylle. Wetsch is a power forward prospect that plays how you thing a power winger should act. He hits, drives to the net, works hard on the boards and comes to compete.
51. Detroit: Simon Zether, C/RW
Rogle has become a breeding ground for Red Wings talent in recent years. He feels right in line with what they're trying to do -- and, at minimum, increases their size upfront, which they tend to love.
Comparison: Jesperi Kotkaniemi. Zether's a big, versatile center/winger, who has some talent and two-way skill in his game. Put him in the right systems and he could develop into a potential bottom-nine/bottom-six center that can also add some scoring.
52. Carolina [from Philadelphia]: Matvei Gridin, RW
The sturdy Russian import is a winger playing in the USHL this season, where he's put up promising point totals. He could be considered the best player available at this point, with the 'Canes selecting him, hoping to boost their winger depth.
Comparison: Owen Tippett. Gridin's a skilled offensive finisher with decent size for the wing. On the negative, he can battle inconsistency, but when on the powerplay, can can prove to be a dynamic force.
53. St. Louis [from Toronto]: Cole Hutson, D
His older brother, Lane, has been tearing it up in college since being drafted around the same range by the Canadiens. Even though he's not at the same level as his brother, there's still upside there, with St. Louis taking the risk on the undersized defender.
Comparison: Samuel Girard. Hutson's an undersized, yet swift defenseman that can wheel pucks up the ice with rapid pace. He has potential to become a bottom-four type of defenseman that can also work powerplays, putting up points from the back.
54. Nashville [from Tampa Bay]: Will Skahan, D
Drafting from the USNTDP, the Preds grab the big shutdown defensema, Will Skahan, in hopes of adding some beef to their blueline. He may not be an offensive wizard, but he's the type of player that teams covet, helping them to win tough games.
Comparison: Mattias Samuelsson. He's a tall defensive defenseman that plays a stay-at-home game. He's not going to make the pretty plays. He's going to make it hard to play against by crashing bodies, clearing the crease and working hard.
55. Vegas: Ollie Josephson, LW/C
A versatile forward, Josephson might be a savvy pickup for the Golden Knights. His two-way play and on-ice warrior mentality feels just right for what Vegas likes in their players. He could be someone that fits in a bottom-six/bottom-nine role.
Comparison: Scott Laughton. Josephson's a two-way center that plays fast and hard, bringing good playmaking and passing skill. He's an all-situations type of forward, who can play powerplay and PK, making him a tremendous asset.
56. Dallas: Luke Misa, C/LW
The younger brother of one of next year's star propects, Misa might be the fastest player left on the board, along with the best player left from the OHL. Of course with Dallas's history of drafting out of the OHL, Misa could be someone they'd like to add, fitting their desire to add more depth scoring and speed to their core.
Comparison: Gustav Nyquist. Between his play in his own end, his speed, with his high-danger playmaking ability, Misa's got potential to become a middle-six forward, who likely shifts to the wing for optimal results. If he wasn't 5'10", he's likely a first round prospect.
57. New York Rangers: Melvin Fernstrom, RW/LW
The Rangers look to build up their wings with this selection. He's the type of player that they've been looking to add right now and had a solid Hlinka performance last year. If he continues until the end of the year, he could solidify himself as a top 60 player.
Comparison: Nino Niederreiter. Fernstrom's a winger that battles hard in front of the net, where he attempts whacking away at rebounds and makes high-danger passes. He's someone with secondary, complementary offense, who provides depth scoring.
58. Nashville [from Winnipeg]: Teddy Stiga, LW
Attempting to grab pure skill, the Preds latch on to Teddy Stiga, who's lack of size might be a detriment to his overall draft positioning. If they go with Will Skahan previously, they may also look to add Stiga, who will also be attending Boston College in the fall.
Comparison: Trevor Moore. Barely standing 5'10", Stiga's gonna have to put on some weight if he wants to continue moving up the ranks. He plays an uptempo, skilled game, using his hands, vision, speed and skill to produce both on even strength and on special teams.
59. Anaheim [from Boston]: Adam Jecho, RW/C
A big bodied Czech forward, Jecho is a perfect fit for what the Ducks are trying to do with their talent pool. At minimum, it deepens their winger pool, adds another big body upfront and gives them a homerun type of swing, where they can watch to see how he develops over time. With teams loving players with size, there's a really good chance that he goes even higher.
Comparison: Mason Marchment. A huge, 6'5" forward, Jecho is someone that can use his size to his advantage, whilst also bringing an admirable skill game. He protects pucks along the board, has a good reason and can be a dependable bottom-nine type.
60. Chicago [from Vancouver]: Marek Vanacker, LW
Vanacker's been steadily rising up rankings with his two-way play in the OHL this season. Vanacker gives them a nice complementary winger that can slide into multiple roles, including special teams, which is always useful.
Comparison: Reilly Smith. Vanacker's someone that'll play up and down a lineup. He's very "plug and play", in that he's a versatile, two-way winger that can force turnovers and work various different units.
61. Edmonton: Sam O'Reilly, RW
A contending team such as the Oilers could love what O'Reilly brings to them. A bundle of energy, he's a player that could step into a depth role with the Oilers to help them contend for championships, doing all kinds of hard, difficult work in order to win.
Comparison: Nick Paul. Formerly a defenseman, O'Reilly's been converted to being a forward, which helps excel him in his energetic, two-way game. He'll bump bodies and works dangerous areas in order to help his team.
62. Carolina: Daniil Ustinkov, D
Depending on whom you ask, Ustinkov might be considered as a first round prospect. If he's here late in the 2nd, the Hurricanes grab onto him, feeling like the composed Swiss defenseman can keep developing into a useful defensive piece.
Comparison: Andrej Sekera. Like Sekera, Ustinkov's an average-size defeneman, who is quite poised with the puck and plays a dependable, smart, calm and positionally sound game.
63. Arizona [from Florida]: Timur Kol, D
Hoping for another steal, the Coyotes dip their toes into the Russian talent pool. This time, they fish out Timur Kol, a LHD that plays on both sides of the ice. With a flurry of picks, they can afford to take a chance on the Russian defenseman.
Comparison: Jake Walman. Timur Kol is a big, 6'3" defenseman that can walk the line and unload with his absolute bomb of a shot. The team that takes him will have to wait, but he could be a big payoff.
64. Montreal [from Colorado]: Raoul Broillard, C/LW
After a standout performance at the CHL's Top Prospect Game, Broillard's stock could be on the rise. If he's still on the board, the Habs grab him here, taking a "local kid". It's great for the area -- and it's also a boost to their center depth and gives them a player with some size, which they also like.
Comparison: Morgan Geekie. Boillard mixes power and skill into a complete package, while also being excellent on the faceoff dot. Thanks to the Q being known as 'weaker", there are concerns over his overall scoring upside and quality of competition, but there are some tools to work upon here.
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ROUND 3
65. Chicago: Julius Miettien, C/RW
Miettinen's a Finnish import, who'd, at the very minimum, give the Blackhawks some more size upfront. The fact that he can play wing or center adds to his valuability, with the Hawks feeling he could battle for a 3rd line center role some day.
Comparison: Carl Soderberg. Miettinen's a big forward that can be a netfront presence, while also providing solid all-around play. Standing almost 6'3", his size adds to his value, making him versatile enough to be shifted around a lineup.
66. Anaheim [from San Jose]: Stian Solberg, D
Solberg's coming off an impressive for Norway at the WJC. It might have propelled him into the top 64 range for scouts. If he's still on the board here, it'd be wise for the Ducks to pick him up in order to shore up their impessive blueline even further than it already is.
Comparion: Martin Fehervary. He's not the type of defenseman that'll add top-flight offense, as he's not an adept puckhandler. Instead, he'll focus on doing the little things to help win, ie: playing physical, blocking shots, closing gaps, shutting down offense, etc..
67. Anaheim: Christian Humphreys, C/RW
Thought of as a potential first round prospect, picking up someone with the speed and talent of Humphreys here would be a fine selection for the Ducks. They can allow him to develop within the US college systems over the next few seasons, letting him contend for a spot within the next 3-5 years.
Comparison: JT Compher. Humpheys isn't the biggest forward, but he's got a lot of speed and pace. That alone should make him a versatile, useful forward that can play a depth role at any position, on any line.
68. Chicago [from Ottawa]: Nicholas Kempf, G
The Hawks grab a goalie to keep themselves well-stocked in that area. He's an Illinois kid, so it may make them a little more excited to take him, hoping a hometown kid can push himself to take the reigns.
Comparison: Tristan Jarry. Kempf's a hard-working goaltending project with decent size. If he can keep improving, there's a chance he could fulfill a starter's role... but it'll be a long way down the line.
69. Columbus: Veeti Vaisanen, D
The Blue Jackets could use some LHD. If Vaisanen's still there, he's a perfect selection. He's someone that could go late first to mid-third, with the Jackets feeling they have a steal at this point of the draft.
Comparison: Gustav Forsling. Vaisanen's a calm, average sized defenseman that'll keep pucks in movement, has good two-way play and could work his way into a mid-to-bottom pairing role some day.
70. Buffalo: Nathan Villeneuve, C
The Sabres are still looking to increase depth upfront. In taking the energetic Villeneuve, they're hoping to land a player that can play a depth center role. They need more guys that can buzz around and compete hard, which makes Villeneuve attractive.
Comparison: Ross Colton. He's an aggressive center that works well at all ends of the ice. He's got good two-way ability and could contest for a bottom-six/third pairing/energy role at some point.
71. Montreal: Harrison Brunicke, D
A player of Brunicke's stock might be a worthy selection for the Habs at this point. He seems to be getting underrated on mainstream lists, but a smart scouting staff would see his size, skating and physicality, giving him a shot to prove himself... which Montreal does. If anything, it improves their RHD even more.
Comparison: Damon Severson. For now, Severson might be the apt comparison for Brunicke. He's a big kid that skates well for his size, can walk the blueline to deliver offense and he can get his nose dirty with physical play.
72. Montreal [from Minnesota]: Lucas Van Vliet, LW/C
Fresh off an impressive performance at the showcase for America's top prospects, Vliet could be a riser. He owns good size and the versatility to play wing or center. As such, he might make a solid selection for the Habs in this area, hoping he can turn into a middle-line guy that adds some depth scoring.
Comparison: Tanner Pearson. A well-balanced forward, Van Vliet's a versatile player that does a little of everything. He's got excellent hands, can wire pucks and has projectable upside.
73. Calgary: Spencer Gill, D
They've been fond of drafting out of the Q these past few years. In order to boost their defensive depth, someone like Gill could add a stabilizing presence to their backend. With his size and defensive skill, there's upside for him to be at least a depth player.
Comparison: Marcus Pettersson. While not a speed burner, Gill makes up for it with his size and strong positional skill. As such, he can use his stick and long reach to breakup plays and close in on attackers.
74. Anaheim [from Pittsburgh]: Ryerson Leenders, G
With a pretty stacked core, they grab a goalie here. It isn't a great year for goalies, but Leenders is one of the best available, with Anaheim enjoying his athleticism and overall upside.
Comparison: Alexander Georgiev. He doesn't have the size that's been seen from the modern day starter. However, he's got impressive athleticism and flexibility. If he makes it as a starter, it's probably on the lower end, ala Georgiev, who uses his speed and athletic skills to keep out pucks.
75. Seattle: Leon Muggli, D
The Swiss defender is looking promising playing in the Swiss leagues, putting up nice numbers and bringing an overall two-way game. Depending on his development path, there's probably future for him to come in and play a depth role.
Comparison: Mikey Anderson. Muggli's a well-rounded defenseman that moves pucks, doesn't compromise in terms of physicality and can play a safe, all-around game.
76. Arizona: Evan Gardner, G
Coming with a good story, including his battle with type 1 diabetes, Garnder might be a goalie that climbs the ranks, if teams love his character. He's been putting up fantastic numbers when playing and he could someone that teams focus on in the mid-rounds.
Comparison: James Reimer. Gardner's got excellent size, can track rebounds with ease and can be a consistent guy. He just needs time and seasoning to see how high his overall upside is.
77. Washington: Clarke Caswell, LW
Armed with a solid brain and excellent playmaking skill, Caswell's a guy with top 64 skill. The only reason he's still here for the Caps is due to lack of top end speed, which they can look past, hoping he can improve. They've enjoyed the progression of western Canadian kids before; they may return to form and take a chance on him.
Comparison: Matthew Poitras. His skating may not be ideal, making up for it with fantastic energy and playmaking ability. If he can keep working on his game, he could find himself working in a top-nine role.
78. St. Louis: Maximillian Curran, C
As a pass-first center, goals may not be coming aplenty for Curran this year. However, his passing has been spot on and he's shown potential as a serviceable player. Deepening their center pool, they'd take Curran, hoping he can keep developing into a talent for them.
Comparison: Alex Wennberg. Curran's a two-way, pass first center with nice size and well-rounded skill. There's potential for him to grow into a complementary center at the pro levels.
79. Toronto [from New York Islanders: Riley Patterson, C/LW
Going local by grabbing Patterson from Barrie of the OHL, the Leafs feel he's still got a development curve left to come, swiftly taking him off the board. After some early season struggles, he's seemingly broken through and has been playing a more complete game.
Comparison: Vladislav Namestnikov. He could work his way into becoming a useful middle-six type of forward. A Swiss Army Knife type, if you will -- someone you can put out into any situation.
80. New Jersey: Ondrej Kos, LW
Kos might be the exact type of winger that the Devils need. In short, a winger that plays extremely hard and could be considered one of the better defensive forwards in the draft. They need players that'll drop everything to help them win and he's exactly the type that fits that mould.
Comparison: Colton Sissons. Kos isn't going to be a player that you notice on the scoresheets. His value will be in playing hard and making life difficult for the opposing team. A guy you can throw out there later, hoping he can block a shot or work at getting the puck out of the zone.
81. Nashville: Luca Marrelli, D
Yet another boost for their defense, this time it's the right-hand side. Picking up Marrelli at this point in the draft could be a good gamble -- it gives their blueline extra insurance and adds some offensive, two-way depth. They've always put a lot of value on having a stacked defense and it's more of the same.
Comparison: Justin Schultz. Marrelli's a two-way defenseman that makes an excellent first pass, owns good mobility and has potential to slide in a depth defenseman that also plays powerplays.
82. Columbus [from Los Angeles]: Eemil Vinni, G
It's been an up-and-down year for Vinni in Finland. Thankfully, in international play, he's been rock solid. Some believe he could be the best goalie available in the draft, while others remain not so hot. Either way, he's got upside and Columbus grabs him here with the hopes of building goalie depth.
Comparison: Filip Gustavsson. Does he have upside as a starter? Maybe. At minimum, he could be an agile guy that gets some games, which, in the third round, is still a good pick.
83. Detroit: Alexander Zetterberg, LW/C
It's another pick based on familial nepotism. The Zetterberg name continues with the Wings' organization, where Detroit are encouraged to take a chance on him. His lack of size is going to be a detriment and could have him plummeting even further on draft day, but it feels like a quality pick in this region.
Comparison: Tyler Johnson. Standing only 5'7"/5'8" and not being fleet of foot, Zetterberg might be someone that falls on draft day. If not, it's because a team views the skill and puckhandling ability and feel they can coax a higher upside out of him.
84. Philadelphia: Linus Eriksson, C
Making an easy selection, they grab the best center they feel is left on the board. Maybe that could be Eriksson, who's looked like a promising, versatile, jack-of-all trades shutdown center in the Swedish junior leagues.
Comparison: Jack Drury. Blessed with a never quit motor, Eriksson's an aggressive center of average size, who comes to play every night. He'll block shots, work hard and do all the gritty things to help win and produce.
85. Seattle [from Toronto]: Kasper Pikkarainen, RW
Pikkarainen's a big Finnish kid that fits well with New Seattle's desire to get larger upfront. He's got a later birthday, so there's likely more growth and development in his game.
Comparison: Pat Maroon. Pikkarainen's got size and some shooting ability. He'll hope to use his given tools to play in a potential bottom-six role.
86. Tampa Bay: Tomas Galvas, D
If he was larger than 5'10", the Czech defenseman, Galvas, would undoubtedly be a top 40/50 selection. Alas, he stands only 5'10", which might make some teams apprehensive about taking him early. Conversely, he could also be on the way up in rankings after an impressive performance at the World Juniors, where he was called upon and stepped in with little practice, where he performed quite well. Ah, hell, he's a guy made for Tampa Bay, who loves their homerun swings.
Comparison: Jordan Spence. Galvas is a mobile, yet undersized defenseman, who moves pucks with speed and precision, likely having value as a dangerous powerplay threat some day.
87. Vegas: Matvei Babenko, RW
It's a swing for the fences type of selection for the Knights. They could value Babenko's big body and pure scoring abilities, hoping it can work out for the best. The Russian factor is absolutely in play... but there's upside. It's a worthy shot in the 3rd round.
Comparison: Denis Gurianov. A big Russian power winger that loves to shoot and uses his size to protect pucks, Babenko could be someone that flirts with inconsistency and that may scare some teams. Even so, you can't deny the toolset he has.
88. Nashville [from Dallas]: Aatos Koivu, C/LW
Ranked as a late 2nd rounder on Bob McKenzie's list, it seems that Saku's son is moving up on draft boards. They've been dipping their toes into Finnish talent in recent drafts. If Koivu's there, they may went to grab him, hoping he can replicate his father's success.
Comparison: Pius Suter. Koivu's a solid, veratile scoring forward that can slide in at center or on the wing. He's display some well-rounded play, including an ability to absolutely wire one-timers from the top of the circle. He's a nice projectable pickup.
89. St. Louis [from New York Rangers]: Kim Saarinen, G
Needing a goalie prospect, Saarinen could be someone the Blues eyeball at this range. He comes built with natural great size, a perfect fit for the modern goalie and was even named the #1 in Europe by Central Scouting. St. Louis could take a swing here, let him develop overseas for a few years and then see what they have on their hands.
Comparison: Mackenzie Blackwood. If he can turn into a starter remains to be seen. There's a lot of projectability with him, though, especially when it comes to his size and ability to shutdown high-danger chances.
90. Winnipeg: Sebastian Soini, D
They've been known to grab a Finn or two during their semi-recent drafts. If Soini's there, it makes him a perfect selection, especially upon realizing he gives their RHD more depth.
Comparison: Matt Roy. Soini plays a perfect support style of game. He can move pucks along, make a calm first pass, defends well and plays a well-balanced style, allowing him to play lots of minutes.
b]91. Washington [from Boston]:[/b] Brodie Ziemer, RW
Ziemer's capability to be a well-rounded, tenacious threat could have him off the board within this range. The Capitals hope his buzzsaw style of game can translate to the pros, liking his ability to both be a disruptor and a scorer.
Comparison: Blake Coleman. Undersized, yet tenacious winger that works hard every night and goes hard to the net. The type of player that shows up during big-time playoff games.
92. Vancouver: Karl Sterner, RW
Again, the Canucks head back to their stomping ground of Sweden. Karl Sterner could become a nice complementary, goal scoring winger for them. If he's there, it'd be hard to pass on him, as he could become a solid core guy.
Comparison: Yegor Sharangovich. Sterner's a guy with size that likes to shoot the puck. If he can put it all together, he could become a dependable depth goal scorer that flanks a playmaking center.
93. Arizona [from Edmonton]: Eriks Mateiko, LW
It's no secret that Coyotes' GM, Bill Armstrong, likes to draft big players. With Mateiko, he's getting a big winger that can help insulate some of their smaller, skilled guys. The big Latvian is a work in progress.
Comparison: Morgan Barron. Mateiko's a complementary power winger that you staple next to your skilled players to open up room for them. His upside may be more of a role player type... but you never know with big forwards.
94. Carolina: Topias Hynninen, RW
Carolina has historically been pretty friendly to Finnish talent. If Hynninen's there, it just seems like a match made in heaven. While he may be nothing more than a depth forward, he might become a valuable Swiss Army Knife type of forward for the 'Canes if he progresses.
Comparison: Anthony Duclair. Hynninen's got potential to become an energetic, roleplaying winger that loves firing pucks on net. In the future, he could battle for a 2nd/3rd/4th line spot, likely able to be plugged into any line given to him, ala Duclair.
95. Florida: Tomas Lavoie, D
They pickup a big, heavy defenseman from the Q in order to satiate a need for more defensive depth. They probably feel he's someone that's close to competing, even if it's in a depth role.
Comparion: Jake Middleton. Lavoie's a big, mobile shutdown defenseman that hits like a brick wall. Not someone that's going to litter the opposing team's goal with pucks. Moreso a guy that'll make life difficult for opposing teams.
96. Arizona [from Colorado]: Kieron Walton, LW
You can't teach size... and that's what Walton brings. Of course, it's also what the Coyotes love and he's ripe for the taking at this spot. They feel he's the perfect type of player that could supply insulation to their smaller scorers, prompting selecting him off the board.
Comparison: Jordan Greenway. Walton's a huge winger developing in the OHL, who can play a simple puck protection game. He likes putting pucks on net and probably aspires to fight for a depth role at some point.
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ROUND 4
97. Nashville [from Chicago]: Gabriel Frasca, C/RW
An early injury kind of hampered his performance at the start of the year. Fortunately, he's shown improvement as time has moved on. A very worthy pick for the Predators to start the 4th round.
Comparison: Connor McMichael. His ability to play center or wing will be a huge bonus for his draft stock, even if he likely moves to the wing for best deployment. His speed and shooting should make him intriguing for teams.
98. Arizona [from San Jose]: Ben Danford, D
They reinforce their defense, adding a right shooting defenseman such as Danford to help clean up their own end. A case can be made for him as being the best player on the board, with Arizona scooping him up, hoping he can shutdown opponents just as good as he's done in the OHL.
Comparison: Josh Gorges. Danford's a hard-working defensive defenseman, who'll recklessly through his body in front of pucks to block shots; he'll strip opponents of pucks and plays a physical game, keeping pucks out of his zone.
99. Ottawa: Logan Sawyer, LW/C
Playing in the AJHL, a weaker league, might dock some points from him... but he's put up good numbers, has good size and will be attending a good US college program in the fall. Perhaps the Sens takes a swing at him, bolstering their forward ranks.
Comparison: Dominik Kubalik. Sawyer's got some skill, especially in the scoring category. Alas, he's coming from a weaker league and doesn't yet have ideal skating, so he'll take some work. He's a longterm project.
100. Columbus: Luke Osborn, D
They've likely seen a lot of him while watching Andrew Strathmann. As a result, he might be on their board and becomes the 100th player off the board. Being one of the younger draft eligibles, he likely has a lot more growth and development to come, with Columbus being more than willing to give it to him.
Comparison: Alex Martinez. Osburn fits the profile as a puck-moving, mobile defenseman. His two-way play is a work in progress, but as of now, he looks like he's got intriguing upside.
101. Buffalo: Herman Traff, RW
The Sabres have good history with drafting from Sweden. To add to that, they're also looking for some kids with size. Traff could be of service here, with the Sabres enjoying what he could bring to their squad.
Comparison: Juuso Parssinen. Traff is a big, offensive winger that has the potential to add some depth scoring from the wing. His size will get eyes on him, with the hope he can be a guy that also adds depth to a powerplay.
102. Montreal: Ondrej Becher, C
They've been no stranger to drafting overagers. He's coming off a very strong performance at the WJC, helping an underdog Czechia to a bronze medal. The Habs could like his all-out play and ability to battle for pucks, thinking he'd make a nice addition to their core. Furthermore, his ability to drive the play has been one of the main reasons why Terik Parascak has found himself high on draft boards, doing the majority of the lifting for that line.
Comparison: Tommy Novak. After going undrafted last year, Becher's shown an impressive leap in skill and production over the past season. Nothing is more evidenct than with his performance at te World Juniors, where he showed excellent skill and was able to get in there to fight for pucks.
103. Minnesota: Max Plante, RW
Grabbing a local kid that they'll be able to watch develop nearby would be a nice add in this range. He comes with a lot of skill and playmaking ability, which could add some depth offense to their core. He's also one of the best player available, which is a further bonus.
Comparison: Connor Garland. Plante doesn't have highlight reel skating, but he can still produce offense in terms of play creation. Developed well, he could turn into a playmaking 2nd/3rd line winger.
104. Anaheim: Yegor Graf, C/RW
With a pretty well-stocked group, they can afford to take some gambles, including on Russian talent that may be underscouted. One such example could be Yegor Graf, who brings an underrated two-way game to the ice. Thus far, he's been playing well in the MHL and could have some upside, if he decides to make the jump.
Comparison: Nick Bonino. One of the better, unheralded two-way forwards, Graf brings solid defense, along with some really good goal-scoring and play creation ability. He's the type of player you put out when the game is on the line or if you need to defend a lead.
105. Calgary: Will Zellers, LW
Coming from prep school, Zellers has a bit of risk in his game. That said, for a 4th rounder, it's a nice risk to take. At this point, the Flames can afford it, hoping he can keep his goal-scoring curve in development.
Comparison: Frank Vatrano. Zellers is an undersized winger that loves firing pucks on net, trying to create offense. He's a legit prospect and a project that, if given enough time, could pan out.
106. Pittsburgh: Tory Pittner, D
The Pens take whomever feel is the best player available at this point. Pittner might have some shine as a defender that can handle minutes. Those types are always useful, especially when you having an aging defense core.
Comparison: Jake McCabe. Pittner profiles as a defensive that does his job just right. He defends well, can play hard and physical and isn't too shabby at keeping the puck in movement and making the correct first pass.
107. Seattle: Adam Kleber, D
Huge in size, Kleber is 6'5", giving the Kraken another much-needed, sizeable defender. He'll take some time to develop in the NCAA in the coming years, with the Kraken waiting to see what they have on their hands.
Comparison: Michael Kesselring. Kleber's got the size, strength and mobility that teams could really love. He's all-around play makes him very projectable, even if it's as a depth piece.
108. Arizona: Jacob Battaglia, RW
It's been a breakthrough year for Battaglia, whose offense has exploded this year. It might be good enough for the Coyotes to take a chance on him, always loving players that come from NHL bloodlines.
Comparison: Jordan Martinook. Battaglia profiles as a winger that plays a versatile role, filling in on any line to play his game. He works hard, can score goals, goes to the net and can be counted on to add depth scoring.
109. Washington: Justin Poirier, RW
Stricken by his lack of height, he wasn't invited to the Top Prospects Game and could be someone that falls on draft day. With the Caps in need of talent, they take a swing on Poirier, betting on his goal scoring coming through.
Comparison: Viktor Arvidsson. Small, but rambunctious goal-scoring winger. He's either that next Arvidsson-like talent; or an AHL/ECHL type that can't quite crack the big league.
110. St. Louis: Oskar Vuollet, LW
For Vuollet, his play at the Hlinka was fantastic. On the flipside, he's been a little more passive during seasonal play. Having selected a few Swedes last year, the Blues take a shot at him here, hoping he can develop some chemistry with his countrymates.
Comparison: Fabian Zetterlund. Vuollet's a smart, attentive forward, whose main weapons are his hockey IQ and deadly shot. There's upside for him to become a depth winger, but he's also lacking in height.
111. New York Islanders: Colin Ralph, D
Making the leap from prep school, there's some danger with Ralph, who holds the potential to be selected much higher than I have him. At minimum, he adds some depth to the Islanders blueline, which is welcome.
Comparison: Dylan Samberg. Ralph's got the chutzpah to become a defensive defenseman who also moves pucks well out of his own zone.
112. Vancouver [from New Jersey]: Tarin Smith, D
Another criminally undervalued defenseman in this draft is Tarin Smith, who doesn't seem to be getting the love on mainstream lists. He's definitely the type of player that could make a lot of teams feel stupid for passing on him years down the road.
Comparison: Jacob Bernard-Docker. After missing the majority of the 2022-2023 season with an injury, Smith's returned and looked phenomenal for his role. His gave revolves around speed and puck movement, something every team is looking for.
113. Nashville: Ethan Procyszyn, RW/C
An intelligent pivot with good size, Procyszyn is the type of guy you throw out there to work hard, win puck battles, play physical and work powerplays. A guy the Preds will need during playoff runs in order to increase depth.
Comparison: Dakota Joshua. Procynszyn has all the tools to make it as a role-playing type at the top level. He may not be a highlight reel guy. He's moreso a dependable, projectable forward that works hard every time he's on the ice.
114. Los Angeles: Aidan Park, RW/C
A California kid, he grew up playing for the Junior Kings squad. There used to be a ton of hype surrounded him. Alas, his game seems to have plateaued, but the Kings could give him a shot as a hometown boy, looking to put up good numbers and play locally.
Comparison: Luke Kunin. He's got a relentless forecheck and consistent pushes the pace of play. He tries his best to disrupt play and can be both a checker and an offensive forward.
115. Ottawa [from Detroit]: John Whipple, D
He might be considered the best player available at this point. It might be wise for the Sens to grab him, if only to increase their LHD depth, which is already quite strong. As he keeps developing through the college ranks, they'll hope his time with the USNTDP proves to be valuable.
Comparison: Zachary Whitecloud. Whipple's not going to be the next Cale Makaer. He's more likely to be closer to a Whitecloud -- in short, a guy that plays a reliable game. He's steady on the backend, can play phyicals and blocks shots, doing the hard things needed to win.
116. Philadelphia: Tuomas Suoniemi, C/LW
After a standout showing at the previous Hlinka, his stock has kind of taken a hit as the year has progressed. Nonetheless, he might be a nice pickup for the Flyers in this range, who hope he can turn his production around.
Comparison: Denis Malgin. Even though Suoniemi's not the biggest, he makes up for it with his puckhandling ability, faceoff skill and potential.
117. Toronto: Francesco Dell'Elce, D
Inexplicably undrafted last year, Dell'Elce goes off the board here, showing quality upside in both seasonal play and during rooking training camps last year. The Leafs could like that he's a little older, hoping he can sooner contribute to a team that's already in the playoff hunt. Once his BCHL season is over, he'll attend the University of Massachusetts, where his development can be monitored.
Comparison: Alex Goligoski. Dell'Elce is a mobile and effective defenseman that's excellent at moving puck up the ice and keeping things in momentum.
118. Ottawa [from Tampa Bay]: Caleb Heil, G
Another University of North Dakota bound kid. Perhaps the new regime will continue with the tradition of UND kids. If so, Heil would be a nice option in this range. It gives them another body that could compete for the net in the future.
Comparison: Jake Allen. He's got decent size, good flexibility and reaction. There's potential for him to at least work as a back-up, if need be, with his technical skill and athleticism making a fine combination.
119. San Jose [from Vegas]: Anthony Romani, RW/C
Adding an overager, the Sharks think/hope Romani's scoring skill can translate when he makes the jump. They need the scoring talent - and with Romani's breakout this year, he could be jumping up lists.
Comparison: Daniel Sprong. Romani's biggest asset is his sharpshooting ability. Even so, he's also got a respectable playmaking game, which a team should love, as he works a powerplay.
120. Detroit [from Dallas]: Arsen Taimazov, D
A way to fortify their defense, the Wings grab Taimazov out of Russia. Perhaps there's a future where he helps balance out a defense unit with Axel Sandin-Pellikka, using his tranquil shutdown presence to calm things.
Compaison: Andrew Peeke. As a shutdown defenseman, he'll attempt to make the easy plays, kill penalties and work a defensive, smothering style to help his team.
121. New York Rangers: Brendan McMorrow, RW
The Rangers like drafting from the USNTDP. McMorrow could be someone they target at this point. At minimum, it's more depth for their right wing, giving them an energy forward that can help with playoff runs.
Comparison: Nicolas Aube Kubel. McMorrow's a depth plug and play winger that goes hard every shift. He's got some grit to his game and it could allow him to add some supplementary offense.
122. Winnipeg: Javon Moore, LW
Moore's playing Minnesota high school hockey, so there may be some apprehension from teams wanting to take him high. However, in the 4th round, the Jets stick to their guns and take a big winger from the American systems, something they have history of selecting.
Comparison: Ilya Mikheyev. It's hard to give a good estimation for Moore. Maybe, at best, he's something like Mikheyev, a middle-six type of speedy winger with good size that works various roles. He feels like a complementary winger.
123. Boston: Mans Toresson, C/LW
In recent history, the Bruins have gone to Sweden to look for prospects. They retain that strategy by grabbing Toresson, who's shown the potential to become a center at the pro-level. His hard-working style could be a help to the Bruins, who need more depth in that area.
Comparison: Sean Kuraly. At his best, he could become a hard-working center/winger that can play a checking role and play in a multitude of roles, including as a penalty killer.
124. Vancouver: Carter George, G
George's lack of size might be concerning, resulting in him falling down the board a little. With the Canucks looking for some long-term depth, George could be an option at this point. Let him play out in the OHL, bring him into the AHL and then give him a few years to develop there.
Comparison: Phillip Grubauer. What George lacks in size, he makes up for in technique and athleticism. He's a guy that can steal games when it's needed; but could wear down with too much use.
125. Nashville [from Edmonton]: Alexandre Blais, LW
Playing in the Q, it's hard to get a perfect read of Blais's potential. The Preds are willing to give him a chance, though, liking his pure skill and playmaking ability. It feels like the type of boom/bust selection they'd make in the mid-rounds.
Comparison: Jonatan Berggren. A versatile speedster with loads of playmaking skill and offense. He's a boom or bust type. If he finds the consistency to overcome his lack of size, he could work out in the end.
126. Carolina: Jack Berglund, LW/C
The Hurricanes need more size and "smash" in their lineup. Berglund is a good first step for this. He's someone that might step into their bottom-six/bottom-three, adding some "oomph".
Comparison: Oskar Sundkvist. Berglund's a versatile, physical forward that can play a depth role for any team. His offense may be limited, with his strength being the physical and defensive side of the game.
127. Florida: Noel Fransen, D
For some crazy reason, Fransen's going unranked by mainstream lists despite putting up stellar numbers in Sweden. Maybe the Panthers claim him, hoping to sneakily walk away with a steal.
Comparison: Erik Gustafsson. At the very least, Fransen's an offensive defenseman that can man the point on a powerplay and put up good numbers through his offensive work.
128. Colorado: Pavel Moysevich, G
A draft re-entry, Moysevich is an overager, who probably doesn't get passed on again. The Avs, who are looking for some homeruns, decide to grab onto him, thinking he has upside to be a potential starter.
Comparison: Darcy Kuemper. At 6'5", Moysevich has the towering size teams love from their goalies. That aspect alone could get him moving up certain team's list, with everyone wanting to find the next diamond in the rough goaltender.
Just missing the cut: Heikki Ruohonen; Mac Swanson; Artyom Schuchinov; William McIsaac; Andrei Krutov; Eric Burger; Christopher Thibodeau; Lukas Matecha; Miroslav Holinka; Austin Baker; Felix Lacerte; Jakub Fibigr; Christian Kirsch; Fyodor Avramov; etc.
SUMMARY
Anaheim
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4. Artyom Levshunov, RD
35. Cole Beaudoin, C/RW
59. Adam Jecho, RW/C
66. Stian Solberg, LD
67. Christian Humpreys, C/RW
74. Ryerson Leenders, G
104. Yegor Graf, C/RW
Arizona
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12. Cole Eiserman, LW
44. Yegor Surin, RW/C
45. Lukas Fischer, LD
63. Timur Kol, LD
76. Evan Gardner, G
93. Eriks Mateiko, LW
96. Kieron Walton, LW/RW
98. Ben Danford, RD
108. Jacob Battaglia, RW
Boston
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123. Mans Toresson, C
Buffalo
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6. Sam Dickinson, LD
38. Nikita Artamonov, RW
70. Nathan Villeneuve, C
101. Herman Traff, RW
Calgary
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9. Tij Iginla, LW/RW
41. Henry Mews, RD
73. Spencer Gill, RD
105. Will Zellers, LW
Carolina
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30. Jett Luchanko, RW/C
52. Matvei Gridin, RW/LW
62. Daniil Ustinkov, LD
94. Topias Hynninen, RW
126. Jack Berglund, LW/C
Chicago
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3. Cayden Lindstrom, C/LW
22. Colton Roberts, RD
33. Tanner Howe, LW
50. Carson Wetsch, RW
60. Marek Vanacker, LW
65. Julius Miettinen, RW/C
68. Nicholas Kempf, G
Colorado
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32. Dean Letourneau, C
128. Pavel Moysevich, G
Columbus
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1. Macklin Celebrini, C
69. Veeti Vaisanen, LD
82. Eemil Vinni, G
100. Luke Osborn, LD
Dallas
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24. Beckett Sennecke, RW/LW
56. Luke Misa, C/RW
Detroit
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19. Igor Chernyshov, LW/RW
51. Simon Zether, C/RW
83. Alexander Zetterberg, LW
120. Arsen Taimazov, RD
Edmonton
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29. Jesse Pulkkinen, LD
61. Sam O'Reilly, RW
Florida
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95. Tomas Lavoie, RD
127. Noel Fransen, LD
Los Angeles
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18. Emil Hemming, RW
114. Aidan Park, C/RW
Minnesota
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8. Zeev Buium, LD
40. John Mustard, LW
103. Max Plante, RW
Montreal
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7. Ivan Demidov, RW
64. Raoul Broillard, C/LW
71. Harrison Brunicke, RD
72. Lucas Van Vliet, LW/C
102. Ondrej Becher, C
Nashville
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17. Liam Greentree, RW
54. Will Skahan, LD
58. Teddy Stiga, LW
81. Luca Marrelli, RD
88. Aatos Koivu, C/LW
97. Gabriel Frasca, RW/C
113. Ethan Procyszyn, RW/C
125. Alexandre Blais, LW
New Jersey
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16. Michael Brandsegg-Nygard, RW
48. Maxim Masse, RW
80. Ondrej Kos, LW
New York Islanders
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15. Trevor Connelly, LW
47. Aron Kiviharju, LD
111. Colin Ralph, LD
New York Rangers
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25. Matvei Shuravin, LD
57. Melvin Fernstrom, RW/LW
121. Brendan McMorrow, RW
Ottawa
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5. Carter Yakemchuk, RD
27. EJ Emery, RD
36. Sacha Boisvert, C
99. Logan Sawyer, LW
115. John Whipple, LD
118. Caleb Heil, G
Philadelphia
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20. Ryder Ritchie, RW/C
31. Michael Hage, C
37. Alfons Freij, LD
84. Linus Eriksson, C
116. Tuomas Suoniemi, C/LW
Pittsburgh
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10. Beckly Catton, C/LW
42. Leo Sahlin Wallenius, LD
106. Tory Pittner, RD
San Jose
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2. Anton Silayev, LD
34. Kamil Bednarik, C
49. Jack Pridham, RW
119. Anthony Romani, RW/C
Seattle
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11. Konsta Helenius, C/RW
43. Gabriel Eliasson, LD
75. Leon Muggli, LD
85. Kasper Pikkarainen, RW
107. Adam Kleber, RD
St. Louis
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14. Adam Jiricek, RD
46. Miguel Marques, LW/RW
53. Cole Hutson, LD
78. Maximillian Curran, C
89. Kim Saarinen, G
110. Oskar Vuollet, LW
Tampa Bay
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86. Tomas Galvas, LD
Toronto
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21. Charlie Elick, RD
79. Riley Patterson, C/RW
117. Francesco Dell'Elce, LD
Vancouver
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28. Lucas Pettersson, C/LW
92. Karl Sterner, RW
112. Tarin Smith, LD
124. Carter George, G
Vegas
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23. Andrew Basha, LW
55. Ollie Josephson, LW/C
87. Matvei Babenko, RW
Washington
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13. Zayne Parekh, RD
77. Clarke Caswell, LW
91. Brodie Ziemer, RW
109. Justin Poirier, RW
Winnipeg
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26. Dominik Badinka, RD
39. Terik Parascak, RW
90. Sebastian Soini, RD
122. Javon Moore, LW
