I really dont get why people say that. Sam Constantino, for example, is already flagging Holtz and Raymond as challengers for number 1 overall. Both of them play in the two clubs that met in the SHL playoffs finals last year, so if they make their pro rosters it means they will have beaten out some pretty skilled players for roster spots.
I think people are definitely sleeping on the European's in this draft. Lafreniere - while being a great prospect - is not seen as a McDavid/Crosby or even Matthews/Tavares level home run out of the park, must draft number 1 overall.