newdimension
Registered User
- May 18, 2013
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It's a new month, a new year and a new laptop... so excuse any typos. Still navigating around this thing.
First off, as per usual, my notes:
- I'm not a scout, nor do I claim to be any sort of expert. I'm just a fan that likes to follow along with the draft. Any comparisons or notes taken should be viewed with a grain of salt. Not everyone is going to go on to become the exact duplicate of whom they're compared to. Most of the players probably won't even make it to the NHL for all I/we know.
- The draft order is of (early morning) January 6th, which is when this was started. It's a post-playoff format, which means the winner of the Stanley Cup goes last. I have a resurging Tampa Bay making it to the finals, defeating Washington to win the Eastern Conference. As for the West, I'm predicting a St. Louis and Vegas finals, with St. Louis going back to the finals and defeating Pittsburgh to repeat as Stanley Cup champions.
- I'll do the first 2 rounds for this month.
- The winners of the lottery are as follows: 1. Los Angeles; 2. Ottawa; 3. Buffalo.
Round 1
1. Los Angeles: Alexis Lafreniere, LW
If the Kings win the lottery, they'd absolutely love to get ahold of Lafreniere. He's the most complete player in the draft, able to legitimately do everything on the ice. I could see Anze Kopitar being a good tuitor for him as he acclimates into the pro ranks, especially if he's his center.
Comparison: He's like a mixture of Elias Pettersson and Jamie Benn. He's got the skill and all-around play of Pettersson, with the physical package of Jamie Benn.
2. Ottawa: Quinton Byfield, C
They finally hit the jackpot and win the lottery. In huge need of a big center, they walk away with Byfield, who played a minor role at the World Juniors this year. They definitely cannot pass on his combination of size, physical presence and skill. It'd give the Senators that #1 center that they sorely covet.
Comparison: Evgeni Malkin. He's a big, 6'4" center with the ability to create major offense. He's one of the youngest players in the draft, so there's still plenty of room for him to grow and develop.
3. Buffalo: Lucas Raymond, RW
They need more depth on their right wing. Raymond brings a potentially elite offensive game, blessed with the ability to make plays and score goals. The Sabres have shown an affinity towards Swedes, so it'd be an easy pick for them, thinking he'd go great alongside Eichel and company.
Comparison: Artemi Panarin. He's an offensive dynamo that's able to create plays and also shoot the puck at will. He's got future top line offensive winger written all over him.
4. Detroit: Tim Stutzle, LW
After a blistering World Juniors tournament, Tim Stutzle is, without a doubt, flying up draft boards, if he wasn't already. They took fellow German, Moritz Seider, last year. They'll go with Stutzle's electrifying talent this year, as they've definitely gotten plenty of good looks at him while scouting Seider.
Comparison: Mitch Marner. He's a competitive, skilled forward that can make plays at high speed that's also able to play in any and all situations.
5. New Jersey: Jamie Drysdale, D
Being the owners of 2 first rounders has its benefits as the Devils decide to take the high impact offensive defenseman with their first pick. Drysdale looked excellent as a 17 year old at the WJC and he's someone that can help the Devils' transition, along with Ty Smith.
Comparion: Cale Makar. He's a pure skating defenseman that excels in puck movement and skill. In terms of skating ability, he's probably top 3 in the class.
6. Anaheim: Anton Lundell, C
It'd be smart for the Ducks to add a few more center options, in my opinion. Getzlaf's getting older and Trevor Zegras may/may not stick it as a center. Adding Lundell would give them more depth to go along with Sam Steel as younger, upcoming guys.
Comparison: He's something of a Patrice Bergeron-Ryan O'Reilly type of all-around center that puts up excellent underlying numbers. He wins faceoffs, plays well in all zones, scores, kills penalties, workies powerplays and so on.
7. Ottawa [from San Jose]: Alexander Holtz, LW
After begging their big center, Quinton Byfield, with the 2nd overall, they can grab Holtz, one of the best pure snipers in this draft class. They have a pretty good history with Swedes, so they hope they can replicate it with him.
Comparison: Filip Forsberg/Filip Zadina type of "shoot-first ask questions later" type of sniper.
8. New York Rangers: Marco Rossi, C/LW
They need centers in their system. Rossi's a fantastic faceoff guy and owns a bevy of offensive firepower. His only drawbacks? He's only 5'9" and he doesn't have elite skating. That said, he'd make a great complement with Mika Zibanejad as a 1-2 option down the middle, with Rossi's pure playmaking skill being a huge benefit.
Comparison: It's an imperfect comparable, but Brad Marchand. Granted he doesn't own Marchand's agitation qualities and skating, he has the similar drive to win, ability to be a pure point producer and size.
9. Montreal: Dylan Holloway, LW/C
Holloway already plays with current Habs prospect, Cole Caufield. Reuniting the two could be a smart idea, as Holloway plays a more speedy, powerful game and they'll hope he can find some chemistry as they grow. It'd give them a speedy power forward with versatility and we all know how much they love players developing within American systems.
Comparison: Jakub Voracek. When I think of Holloway, I think of a winger with ample size, excellent playmaking and blistering speed, who also isn't a pure old school type of power forward, but can handle his own in the physical department. Therefore, I went with Voracek, who can play in any situation, while providing plenty of offense.
10. Chicago: Cole Perfetti, LW/C
He very much seems like a Blackhawks type of pick. He's got excellent smarts and dynamic overall offensive play. He could drop a little due to size and skating, but in this area, they'd love to grab him. I think he and Kirby Dach could make a nice pairing in the future.
Comparison: Jake Guentzel. An offensive forward that plays wing or center that brings a cerebral, smart scoring game to the ice.
11. Nashville: Yaroslav Askarov, G
Rinne and Saros have been less than stellar this year. They also don't have any really high end goaltender types in their system. Askarmov may not be far off from contributing, so he might be a good pickup at this location. Despite the letdown of his WJC appearance, I think he still goes early, albeit maybe he's just short of the top 10.
Comparison: Tuukka Rask. He's a goaltender with good size, excellent upside and skill that should be fighting for Vezina nominations in the future.
12. Minnesota: Jan Mysak, C/LW
They love their European prospects. Mysak's coming over to play in the OHL and it should help move him up draft boards. A team like Minnesota that needs talent upfront would be wise to add him.
Comparison: Elias Lindholm. He's an all-around threat, whom, like I said, can play any role given to him. He comes with plenty of skill and has excellent ability to pass and shoot the puck.
13. Columbus: Dawson Mercer, RW/C
Last year, they traded away a lot of draft picks. This year, they need to take the best player available for them. That could be Mercer, who seems like the type of player that'd achieve major success in Tortorella's system. He's the type of player that does everything needed to win, which should go over well.
Comparison: Max Pacioretty. Maybe moreso of a younger Pacioretty, when he played at full speed and was an excellent two-way scorer.
14. Winnipeg: Braden Schneider, D
Not only does he seem like a good fit for the Jets, he also fits a huge need. They need defensive depth, especially with guys that can play on the right side.
Comparison: Brent Seabrook. Similar to a younger version of Seabrook, who was a physical, shutdown defenseman that kept opposing teams honest via usage of his big shot.
15. Philadelphia: Connor Zary, C
With the health situation of Nolan Patrick completely up in the air, they'll need someone that can be a potential future #2 center. Zary fits that to a tee, enabling them to take a crack at him.
Comparison: Bo Horvat. He's a hard-working, all-out, mobile two-way center that works hard to create offense and can shutdown opposition.
16. Calgary: Willian Wallinder, D
It wouldn't surprise me if he's a big riser comes draft time, ala Moritz Seider last year. He seems like the type of player the Flames could like, loving his combination of size from the blueline and puck moving, offensive skill.
Comparison: Dougie Hamilton. Like Hamilton, he's a sizeable, puck moving defenseman whose focus is on adding offense from the back.
17. Edmonton: Noel Gunler, RW
They were able to grab Broberg last year. This year, they return to Sweden and take Gunler, a winger with decent size and a knack for putting pucks in and on net. Another goal scorer to play alongside Draisaitl and McDavid would be perfect.
Comparison: Brock Boeser. Gunler's a guy that'll sneak in there and score goals, while also aiding in overall offensive play. He'll work hard in the trenches and can even setup teammates for goals.
18. Florida: Hendrix Lapierre, C/LW
There's a lot of innuendo about him dropping due to concussions and inconsistency... which, I guess, is a possibility. However, I think a team will still take him fairly high, maybe even top 20, especially if he returns and begins lighting it up. The Panthers could use a few more centers in their pool, so they could take the chance.
Comparison: At top end, he's similar to a Teuvo Teravainen or David Krejci type of playmaking forward that keeps things safe, calm and collected, while also able to add some two-way play.
19. Tampa Bay [from Vancouver]: Rodion Amirov, LW/RW
With the Canucks's pick, they're able to take whomever is the best on the board. Despite slipping down the board due to the "Russian factor", Amirov would be a great pickup here for them. They have a good history with Russian talent and he should fit in well.
Comparison: David Perron. He's a potential top 6 winger that can dangle, score and setup plays. Speed can be an issue, but it can also be addressed. He can be an offensive complementary type.
20. Carolina: JJ Peterka, LW/RW
They received German-born, Dominik Bokk in the trade for Justin Faulk. They take another German this time, JJ Peterka, who's fresh off a coming-out party at the World Junior tournament. They're a team that loves drafting for skill and Peterka's got plenty of that.
Comparison: Jakub Vrana. Blessed with speed and an ability to equally score goals and pass the puck, he's got pure offensive forward written all over him.
21. New Jersey [from Arizona]: Jacob Perreault, RW
Fits their need of a goal scorer to play alongside Jack Hughes and brings good bloodlines, with his father being Yanic Perreault. After grabbing Drysdale earlier, they use the Arizona pick for some offensive talent upfront.
Comparison: Victor Olofsson. Not a big guy, but a skilled, smart and offensively creative kid that knows where to go to score goals and put pucks on net.
22. Dallas: Jean-Luc Foudy, C/LW
The Stars love drafting out of the OHL and are sometimes known to make some off-the-board type of selections. In this scenario, they could target Foudy, who has the best skating ability in the entire draft. The rest of his game needs some refining and his upside is questionable... but there's no arguing with his ability to skate.
Comparison: Mikkel Boedker. Foudy could develop into a Boedker type of winger -- basically, a player with great bursts of speed and a good stride, using it to become an effective middle 6'er.
23. Carolina [from Toronto]: Roni Hirvonen, RW/C
The Hurricanes love their Finns. They take one of the most skilled Finns available. He may be a little on the smaller side, yet they'll give him a chance to develop and hope he turns into the next Sebastian Aho.
Comparison: Jaden Schwartz. He's only 5'9" or so, which could hamper him from making it as a pro. However, he comes with excellent offensive skill and vision, which'll help him put up points.
24. New York Islanders: Vasili Ponomaryov, LW
They often look towards the QMJHL for players. Ponomaryov is a speedy Russian import that can make plays and handle the puck during his high-octane play. He seems like the type of player that Lou Lamoriello could enjoy.
Comparison: Nikolaj Ehlers. An enigmatic speedster with top 6 scoring potential.
25. Colorado: Mavrik Bourque, C
The Avs take whomever they feel is best on the board. Based on his offensive talent, Bourque could very well go higher. He has some skating issues that need to be addressed, though. Otherwise, he'd be a top 20 talent.
Comparison: He's probably something in between a Joe Pavelski and Anthony Beauvillier type. He's an undersized goal-scorer with excellent energy and two-way play. Like Pavelski, he's not a great skater, but works hard on the ice and owns a wicked shot.
26. Pittsburgh: Jeremie Poirier, D
The Pens love drafting from the Q. Poirier has huge upside as an offensive defenseman and could go even further up in the draft. If he's still here, the Pens would love to grab him.
Comparison: At top end, he could be similar to a Thomas Chabot-like player. He has some skating issues that may prevent that. Otherwise, maybe he becomes similar to a Kevin Shattenkirk type that plays middle pairing minutes, along with powerplays.
27. Boston: Brendan Brisson, C/LW
They have a tendency of drafting Americans. Brisson's been on the rise this year, especially after his excellent showing at the WJAC. He'd fit the mould of a modern day Bruins player, utilizing an all-around approach to the game with good scoring ability and can play a pro-style game.
Comparison: Nazem Kadri. He adds both offensive skill and some grind-it-out on the forecheck/backcheck type of game. He's capable of playing center, which is a boost to his stock.
28. Vegas: Jake Sanderson, D
A smooth-skating, two-way, all-around solid defender seems right up Vegas's alley. His upside may not be huge, but he can move the puck along, make passes, hit and play an excellent two-way game. He's also the son of former NHL'er, Geoff Sanderson, a noted speedster, with the swift skating running in the family.
Comparison: Ryan McDonagh. An all-around defenseman that keeps things simple with his excellent skating skill.
29. Washington: Zion Nybeck, RW
If he were 3-4 inches taller, he'd be a surefire top 15 selection, maybe even top 10. Alas, he's a short kid and that'll likely drop him. The Capitals love their Swedes, though; and he plays like a firebug on the ice, which could make him an optimal selection for the Caps.
Comparison: Travis Konecny. A smaller, yet feisty, forward with excellent two-way skill and a solid ability to work the powerplay with his playmaking skill.
30. Tampa Bay: Jake Neighbours, LW
The Bolts have drafted from out west in the first round the past few drafts. They'd love to add someone whose playstyle is perfectly built for playoff action. Neighbours is an all-around threat, who also owns some physicality, making him hard to play against.
Comparison: Tyler Bertuzzi. He's a guy that can do a little of everything -- from hitting to offensive play to two-way play. He can bring a lot of energy to the ice, with a Dustin Brown type possibly being his total upside.
31. St. Louis: Lukas Reichel, LW
They're the team that originally drafted Dominik Bokk. They go back to Germany and select Reichel, the third of the German trio that impressed at the World Juniors. Going my draft, it'd be the first time 3 Germans are taken in the first round, which would be impressive. He'd give the Blues some extra offensive skill.
Comparison: Jakob Silfverberg. With an excellent ability to shoot and score, he can also play a smart all-around game, which could aide him play a top 9 role.
Round 2
32. Detroit: Jack Quinn, RW
The Wings need an influx of talent, asap. Jack Quinn's an older prospect in this draft and has displayed some decent two-way upside. He's a first round quality player, with the Wings grabbing him to help boost their scoring depth.
Comparison: Reilly Smith. He's a smart, speedy, savvy two-way player that has sneaky good offensive upside.
33. Nashville [from New Jersey]: Thomas Bordeleau, C/LW
They love drafting players developing in American collegiate systems. Bordeleau's got first round level of talent, displaying good overall skill. His lack of size will drop him down the board, however.
Comparison: Mikael Granlund. Bordeleau's a smaller, shifty, playmaking forward that still has some work to do with his skating. However, he's got good skill and ability.
34. Ottawa: Justin Barron, D
Barron might drop for multiple reasons. He hasn't lived up to expectations and he's recently been diagnosed with blood clots. It'll be a little risky. That said, the Sens need depth on their right side of defense and he's got the size they love. He also plays in the Q, which they tend to love drafting from.
Comparison: Brady Skjei. He's a big defender with excellent mobility, but with questionable offensive upside.
35. Los Angeles: Topi Niemela, D
After winning the rights to Lafreniere, they grab a defenseman to boost their depth in that area. Niemela's got first round upside and profiles as a good mobile d-man.
Comparison: Nate Schmidt. He's a poised, calm, mobile defenseman that keeps things simple.
36. Anaheim: Helge Grans, D
There's a possibility that Grans could be a late-riser into the first round. For now, I'll have him here. He's an offense-first defenseman with good size, who's yet another Swedish talent that they'd love.
Comparison: Jeff Petry. He's a big defenseman that brings plenty of offensive talent from the point, with the ability to hammer pucks home.
37. San Jose: Joel Blomqvist, G
The Sharks need goaltending pretty badly. In this range, Blomqvist could be an option for them, with goalies with his level of talent usually going around the 2nd round range.
Comparison: Braden Holtby. A project goaltender with good size and ability that could profile as a future starter.
38. Carolina [from New York Rangers]: Joni Jurmo, D
After going with forwards for their first 2 selections, they take a d-man for their next pick. His combination of size and upside could get him picked earlier than expected.
Comparison: Mattias Ekholm. He's a big Finnish defenseman that plays a sound two-way game and also moves really well on the ice.
39. Montreal: Lukas Cormier, D
The only thing keeping him out of the first round is his lack of size. That said, his skating skill is impeccable and he's an offensive defenseman that unloads of barrage of shots on net. With the draft in Montreal, they could want to take a few kids from the Q and see how they develop.
Comparison: Adam Fox. What he lacks in size, he makes up for in offensive and skating ability.
40. Montreal [from Chicago]: William Villeneuve, D
Again, they grab a local kid. He's another guy that could be a late riser, as he's shown excellent all-around play. If Cormier gives them depth on the left side, Villeneuve increases depth on the right.
Comparison: Matt Niskanen. Bringing mobility and all-around play should be his style. He can put up points and play an effective two-way game, which would be ideal for the Habs as they need defensive depth.
41. Buffalo: Antonio Stranges, LW
They draft an American forward that's been playing in the OHL. A lot has been said about Stranges, yet his unique 10-2 skating stride allows him to effectively wage offensive skill against opponents. There may be consistency issues, which drops him into the 2nd. The Sabres need scoring depth, so taking Stranges is a risk worth taking.
Comparison: At top end, he could be like a Jeff Skinner, who also employs the same skating stride. Maybe more of a Jeremy Bracco, who has yet to find his footing as an NHL'er. Or maybe a Joshua ho-Sang type of pure offensive player that also has yet to find a spot as an NHL'er.
42. Nashville: Emil Andrae, D
The Preds love drafting for defense, developing them quite well. As such, they take Emil Andrae, who's undersized, yet has elite puck movement type skill.
Comparison: Jared Spurgeon. Andrae's on the smaller side, so it might drop him into the 2nd round. He's got excellent mobility and puck movement skill, though.
43. Minnesota: Tyson Foerster, RW
Here's a guy that's quickly moving up lists. He's probably on the brink of being a first rounder already. If he keeps scoring at his current pace, there's a good chance he moves up. For now, with Minnesota's need for goal scorers, I'll have them taking him.
Comparison: James Neal. His skating isn't ideal, although he launches a quick shot and can provide offense.
44. Ottawa [from Columbus]: Seth Jarvis, RW
The Sens could love his combination of speed and scoring. He can come up clutch in big games, making him a viable pickup tp help build up their core.
Comparison: Anthony Beauvillier. An energetic offensive winger that can score goals and play a two-way, skilled game.
45. Winnipeg: Ty Smilanic, LW/C
Another team that's known to scout heavily from American systems are the Jets. In this case, they take on Smilanic, who started the year as a first round candidate. He's got upside as probably a middle 6 talent, it's worth a crack at him here.
Comarison: Colin White. Smilanic plays a speedy, energetic game that could help boost special teams.
46. Philadelphia: Simon Kubicek, D
Named as one of the best players for the Czechs at the World Juniors, Kubicek could be shooting up draft lists. Not only can he play a very fine two-way game, but he also owns a right shot, which many teams covet and he has a cannon from the point.
Comparison: Ryan Pulock. He's an all-around type that can be physical, unleash heavy shots and play on a penalty kill.
47. Calgary: Martin Chromiak, LW
For some reason, the Flames love drafting Slovaks. With Chromiak coming to play in the OHL, he could be due to move up in rankings. This should be right around where he goes... at least for now.
Comparison: Mike Hoffman. He profiles as a goal-scoring offensive threat with some two-way accumen.
48. Edmonton: Justin Sourdif, RW
He feels like the type of player that'd gel well with the current Oilers core. They need forwards and he has potential as a secondary, jack-of-all-trades scorer with all of the energy he can provide.
Comparison: Jason Zucker. He's a high-motor player that drives fast to the net and enjoys scoring goals.
49. Florida: Kasper Simontaival, RW
The Panthers love drafting Finns. Simontaival has first round potential, dropping down solely because of issues with consistency and skating. That said, they take a chance on him, feeling they can develop him.
Comparison: At top end, he could be like a Viktor Arvidsson type of player. Simontaival, much like Arvidsson, is an undersized goal scorer with less than perfect skating. They're both good at placing themselves where to score, though.
50. Vancouver: Kaiden Guhle, D
They grab a swift, mobile, physical defenseman to potentially play behind Quinn Hughes. This way, they're able to send out a bigger, shutdown type after Hughes's explosive offensive play.
Comparison: Adam Pelech. Playing a shutdown style is his forte. Coincidentally, he also contributes with some simple, effective offensive play.
51. Carolina: Jaromir Pytlik, C/RW
While his offense is questionable, Pytlik certainly has the fit to be a perfect shutdown centerman that can be a workhouse on a penalty kill. If he can develop his offense, he could become an excellent force. For now, the 'Canes could take him, giving them depth and size at center.
Comparison: Radek Faksa. Not a great skater, Pytlik has the ability to fight like a dog on the PK. He can also hold his own in the shooting department.
52. Arizona: Michael Benning, D
Undersized and maybe underrated, Benning's putting up excellent numbers in the lesser AJHL. He'll be going to the University of Denver next year, with the Coyotes jumping on him, allowing him time to develop, hoping his offense can translate.
Comparison: Torey Krug. Like Krug, he's quite undersized for a defenseman. Nevertheless, he brings amazing firepower and has been putting up a PPG similar to that of Cale Makar.
53. Ottawa [from Dallas]: Dylan Peterson, RW
It's probably a little early for him, but the Sens love drafting for size and they're known for scouting heavily in the US developmental systems. He's a lot what they look for in players.
Comparison: Austin Watson. He's a big power forward that skates as well as he hits. May not have the most scoring upside.
54. Toronto: Ryan O'Rourke, D
Often referred to as a "throwback defenseman", O'Rourke hits, blocks shots and can be a heart and soul type with a heavy shot. Playing in Sault Ste Marie could get him on the Leafs radar; and if he's there, I don't see them passing on him.
Comparison: Damon Severson. He's a taleneted all-around defender that hits and plays many different roles.
55. New York Islanders: Carson Bantle, LW
It wouldn't surprise me if they went the route of American collegiate systems again. They like drafting from there and he's got a lot of tools that they could like. Not only is he a tall kid, he's also a skilled winger, boosting the Isles more more in this position.
Comparison: Kevin Hayes. As stated, he's a big winger that offers some potent skill and offense. He's a project with some upside.
56. Washington [from Colorado]: Shakir Mukhamadullin, D
If he's still here, they'd find it hard to pass on him. After an excellent WJAC tournament, in which he looked like a dominant shutdown type of defenseman, he might shoot up draft boards. He seems like a good bet to go in the 2nd round and he seems like the type of Russian defenseman that they'd love to develop.
Comparison: Johnny Boychuk. He's a physical Russian with a hard shot that he likes to get on net.
57. Vegas [from Pittsburgh]: Pavel Novak, LW/RW
The Golden Knights taken a smooth-skating, offensive forward with excellent creativity. He's been jumping up draft boards and this seems right around the location for him to go. After serving a suspension, he's come back and been a ball of fire and energy, putting up an excellent amount of points.
Comparison: Ondrej Kase. This Czech forward's got a whole lot of creativity, thanks to his crafty vision and hands.
58. Boston: Ozzy Weisblatt, RW
His style of play perfectly matches what the Bruins look for. He makes it hard to play against, while also displaying some offensive potential and hard-working skill.
Comparison: Ondrej Palat. Not a huge guy on the ice; he's a hard-working, energetic player with some offensive firebug skill that adds a two-way element and overall play.
59. Vegas: Daniil Guschin, RW
The Russian factor, along with his lack of size and strength truly holds him back from getting drafted higher. Nonetheless, he's got an abundant amount of talent and skill. With teams still looking for and loving size, it might result in him dropping somewhat.
Comparison: Nikita Gusev. An undersized forward with dubious skill and upside that's hampered a little by inconsistency and size.
60. Detroit [from Washington]: Theodor Niederbach, C
When it comes to drafting Swedes, they're very shrew and quick to the draw. I could see them liking Niederbach. Plus the fact that he can play center is surely a bonus. He could be another guy that's on the rise by the time everything's said and done.
Comparison: Gustav Nyquist. Niederbach's a naturally skilled forward with good hockey sense, who can create scoring chances, as long as put the puck in the net by himself.
61. Tampa Bay: Luke Tuch, LW
His size and power forward ability could get him taken within the top 62. A team like Tampa that has a bevy of smaller, skilled guys could be inclined to give him a shot, hoping his style can make them a little heavier upfront. And yes, he is the brother of Vegas's Alex Tuch.
Comparison: Oskar Sundqvist. I'm not sold on him having major offensive upside. He does, however, seem like a good fit as a bottom 6 guy that'll use his body and make things difficult for opponents.
62. St. Louis: Yan Kuznetsov, D
They won the Cup based on the play of their big defensemen. They rotate back to that, taking on the big, mobile defenseman, Kuznetsov. He's a big-time project that stands tall and has intriguing upside.
Comparison: Phillippe Myers. It remains to be seen just how much offensive upside he has. That said, he moves well for a big guy. At minimum, he can be a stay-at-home type.
Some guys that just missed the cut:
Carter Savoie; Ryan Francis; Tyler Tullio; Marat Khusnitdinov; Veeti Miettinen; Alexander Pashin; Connor McClennon; Sean Farrell, etc.. Basically, a bunch of smaller guys.
Then we've got projects such Samuel Knazko; Alexander Nikishin; Eemil Viro; Roby Jarventie; Nick Malik; Michal Gut; Jack Thompson. A lot of these guys would probably go in my 3rd round, which I will do in February. There's still a lot of hockey left to be played, so there's plenty of time for movement up and down the board.
First off, as per usual, my notes:
- I'm not a scout, nor do I claim to be any sort of expert. I'm just a fan that likes to follow along with the draft. Any comparisons or notes taken should be viewed with a grain of salt. Not everyone is going to go on to become the exact duplicate of whom they're compared to. Most of the players probably won't even make it to the NHL for all I/we know.
- The draft order is of (early morning) January 6th, which is when this was started. It's a post-playoff format, which means the winner of the Stanley Cup goes last. I have a resurging Tampa Bay making it to the finals, defeating Washington to win the Eastern Conference. As for the West, I'm predicting a St. Louis and Vegas finals, with St. Louis going back to the finals and defeating Pittsburgh to repeat as Stanley Cup champions.
- I'll do the first 2 rounds for this month.
- The winners of the lottery are as follows: 1. Los Angeles; 2. Ottawa; 3. Buffalo.
Round 1
1. Los Angeles: Alexis Lafreniere, LW
If the Kings win the lottery, they'd absolutely love to get ahold of Lafreniere. He's the most complete player in the draft, able to legitimately do everything on the ice. I could see Anze Kopitar being a good tuitor for him as he acclimates into the pro ranks, especially if he's his center.
Comparison: He's like a mixture of Elias Pettersson and Jamie Benn. He's got the skill and all-around play of Pettersson, with the physical package of Jamie Benn.
2. Ottawa: Quinton Byfield, C
They finally hit the jackpot and win the lottery. In huge need of a big center, they walk away with Byfield, who played a minor role at the World Juniors this year. They definitely cannot pass on his combination of size, physical presence and skill. It'd give the Senators that #1 center that they sorely covet.
Comparison: Evgeni Malkin. He's a big, 6'4" center with the ability to create major offense. He's one of the youngest players in the draft, so there's still plenty of room for him to grow and develop.
3. Buffalo: Lucas Raymond, RW
They need more depth on their right wing. Raymond brings a potentially elite offensive game, blessed with the ability to make plays and score goals. The Sabres have shown an affinity towards Swedes, so it'd be an easy pick for them, thinking he'd go great alongside Eichel and company.
Comparison: Artemi Panarin. He's an offensive dynamo that's able to create plays and also shoot the puck at will. He's got future top line offensive winger written all over him.
4. Detroit: Tim Stutzle, LW
After a blistering World Juniors tournament, Tim Stutzle is, without a doubt, flying up draft boards, if he wasn't already. They took fellow German, Moritz Seider, last year. They'll go with Stutzle's electrifying talent this year, as they've definitely gotten plenty of good looks at him while scouting Seider.
Comparison: Mitch Marner. He's a competitive, skilled forward that can make plays at high speed that's also able to play in any and all situations.
5. New Jersey: Jamie Drysdale, D
Being the owners of 2 first rounders has its benefits as the Devils decide to take the high impact offensive defenseman with their first pick. Drysdale looked excellent as a 17 year old at the WJC and he's someone that can help the Devils' transition, along with Ty Smith.
Comparion: Cale Makar. He's a pure skating defenseman that excels in puck movement and skill. In terms of skating ability, he's probably top 3 in the class.
6. Anaheim: Anton Lundell, C
It'd be smart for the Ducks to add a few more center options, in my opinion. Getzlaf's getting older and Trevor Zegras may/may not stick it as a center. Adding Lundell would give them more depth to go along with Sam Steel as younger, upcoming guys.
Comparison: He's something of a Patrice Bergeron-Ryan O'Reilly type of all-around center that puts up excellent underlying numbers. He wins faceoffs, plays well in all zones, scores, kills penalties, workies powerplays and so on.
7. Ottawa [from San Jose]: Alexander Holtz, LW
After begging their big center, Quinton Byfield, with the 2nd overall, they can grab Holtz, one of the best pure snipers in this draft class. They have a pretty good history with Swedes, so they hope they can replicate it with him.
Comparison: Filip Forsberg/Filip Zadina type of "shoot-first ask questions later" type of sniper.
8. New York Rangers: Marco Rossi, C/LW
They need centers in their system. Rossi's a fantastic faceoff guy and owns a bevy of offensive firepower. His only drawbacks? He's only 5'9" and he doesn't have elite skating. That said, he'd make a great complement with Mika Zibanejad as a 1-2 option down the middle, with Rossi's pure playmaking skill being a huge benefit.
Comparison: It's an imperfect comparable, but Brad Marchand. Granted he doesn't own Marchand's agitation qualities and skating, he has the similar drive to win, ability to be a pure point producer and size.
9. Montreal: Dylan Holloway, LW/C
Holloway already plays with current Habs prospect, Cole Caufield. Reuniting the two could be a smart idea, as Holloway plays a more speedy, powerful game and they'll hope he can find some chemistry as they grow. It'd give them a speedy power forward with versatility and we all know how much they love players developing within American systems.
Comparison: Jakub Voracek. When I think of Holloway, I think of a winger with ample size, excellent playmaking and blistering speed, who also isn't a pure old school type of power forward, but can handle his own in the physical department. Therefore, I went with Voracek, who can play in any situation, while providing plenty of offense.
10. Chicago: Cole Perfetti, LW/C
He very much seems like a Blackhawks type of pick. He's got excellent smarts and dynamic overall offensive play. He could drop a little due to size and skating, but in this area, they'd love to grab him. I think he and Kirby Dach could make a nice pairing in the future.
Comparison: Jake Guentzel. An offensive forward that plays wing or center that brings a cerebral, smart scoring game to the ice.
11. Nashville: Yaroslav Askarov, G
Rinne and Saros have been less than stellar this year. They also don't have any really high end goaltender types in their system. Askarmov may not be far off from contributing, so he might be a good pickup at this location. Despite the letdown of his WJC appearance, I think he still goes early, albeit maybe he's just short of the top 10.
Comparison: Tuukka Rask. He's a goaltender with good size, excellent upside and skill that should be fighting for Vezina nominations in the future.
12. Minnesota: Jan Mysak, C/LW
They love their European prospects. Mysak's coming over to play in the OHL and it should help move him up draft boards. A team like Minnesota that needs talent upfront would be wise to add him.
Comparison: Elias Lindholm. He's an all-around threat, whom, like I said, can play any role given to him. He comes with plenty of skill and has excellent ability to pass and shoot the puck.
13. Columbus: Dawson Mercer, RW/C
Last year, they traded away a lot of draft picks. This year, they need to take the best player available for them. That could be Mercer, who seems like the type of player that'd achieve major success in Tortorella's system. He's the type of player that does everything needed to win, which should go over well.
Comparison: Max Pacioretty. Maybe moreso of a younger Pacioretty, when he played at full speed and was an excellent two-way scorer.
14. Winnipeg: Braden Schneider, D
Not only does he seem like a good fit for the Jets, he also fits a huge need. They need defensive depth, especially with guys that can play on the right side.
Comparison: Brent Seabrook. Similar to a younger version of Seabrook, who was a physical, shutdown defenseman that kept opposing teams honest via usage of his big shot.
15. Philadelphia: Connor Zary, C
With the health situation of Nolan Patrick completely up in the air, they'll need someone that can be a potential future #2 center. Zary fits that to a tee, enabling them to take a crack at him.
Comparison: Bo Horvat. He's a hard-working, all-out, mobile two-way center that works hard to create offense and can shutdown opposition.
16. Calgary: Willian Wallinder, D
It wouldn't surprise me if he's a big riser comes draft time, ala Moritz Seider last year. He seems like the type of player the Flames could like, loving his combination of size from the blueline and puck moving, offensive skill.
Comparison: Dougie Hamilton. Like Hamilton, he's a sizeable, puck moving defenseman whose focus is on adding offense from the back.
17. Edmonton: Noel Gunler, RW
They were able to grab Broberg last year. This year, they return to Sweden and take Gunler, a winger with decent size and a knack for putting pucks in and on net. Another goal scorer to play alongside Draisaitl and McDavid would be perfect.
Comparison: Brock Boeser. Gunler's a guy that'll sneak in there and score goals, while also aiding in overall offensive play. He'll work hard in the trenches and can even setup teammates for goals.
18. Florida: Hendrix Lapierre, C/LW
There's a lot of innuendo about him dropping due to concussions and inconsistency... which, I guess, is a possibility. However, I think a team will still take him fairly high, maybe even top 20, especially if he returns and begins lighting it up. The Panthers could use a few more centers in their pool, so they could take the chance.
Comparison: At top end, he's similar to a Teuvo Teravainen or David Krejci type of playmaking forward that keeps things safe, calm and collected, while also able to add some two-way play.
19. Tampa Bay [from Vancouver]: Rodion Amirov, LW/RW
With the Canucks's pick, they're able to take whomever is the best on the board. Despite slipping down the board due to the "Russian factor", Amirov would be a great pickup here for them. They have a good history with Russian talent and he should fit in well.
Comparison: David Perron. He's a potential top 6 winger that can dangle, score and setup plays. Speed can be an issue, but it can also be addressed. He can be an offensive complementary type.
20. Carolina: JJ Peterka, LW/RW
They received German-born, Dominik Bokk in the trade for Justin Faulk. They take another German this time, JJ Peterka, who's fresh off a coming-out party at the World Junior tournament. They're a team that loves drafting for skill and Peterka's got plenty of that.
Comparison: Jakub Vrana. Blessed with speed and an ability to equally score goals and pass the puck, he's got pure offensive forward written all over him.
21. New Jersey [from Arizona]: Jacob Perreault, RW
Fits their need of a goal scorer to play alongside Jack Hughes and brings good bloodlines, with his father being Yanic Perreault. After grabbing Drysdale earlier, they use the Arizona pick for some offensive talent upfront.
Comparison: Victor Olofsson. Not a big guy, but a skilled, smart and offensively creative kid that knows where to go to score goals and put pucks on net.
22. Dallas: Jean-Luc Foudy, C/LW
The Stars love drafting out of the OHL and are sometimes known to make some off-the-board type of selections. In this scenario, they could target Foudy, who has the best skating ability in the entire draft. The rest of his game needs some refining and his upside is questionable... but there's no arguing with his ability to skate.
Comparison: Mikkel Boedker. Foudy could develop into a Boedker type of winger -- basically, a player with great bursts of speed and a good stride, using it to become an effective middle 6'er.
23. Carolina [from Toronto]: Roni Hirvonen, RW/C
The Hurricanes love their Finns. They take one of the most skilled Finns available. He may be a little on the smaller side, yet they'll give him a chance to develop and hope he turns into the next Sebastian Aho.
Comparison: Jaden Schwartz. He's only 5'9" or so, which could hamper him from making it as a pro. However, he comes with excellent offensive skill and vision, which'll help him put up points.
24. New York Islanders: Vasili Ponomaryov, LW
They often look towards the QMJHL for players. Ponomaryov is a speedy Russian import that can make plays and handle the puck during his high-octane play. He seems like the type of player that Lou Lamoriello could enjoy.
Comparison: Nikolaj Ehlers. An enigmatic speedster with top 6 scoring potential.
25. Colorado: Mavrik Bourque, C
The Avs take whomever they feel is best on the board. Based on his offensive talent, Bourque could very well go higher. He has some skating issues that need to be addressed, though. Otherwise, he'd be a top 20 talent.
Comparison: He's probably something in between a Joe Pavelski and Anthony Beauvillier type. He's an undersized goal-scorer with excellent energy and two-way play. Like Pavelski, he's not a great skater, but works hard on the ice and owns a wicked shot.
26. Pittsburgh: Jeremie Poirier, D
The Pens love drafting from the Q. Poirier has huge upside as an offensive defenseman and could go even further up in the draft. If he's still here, the Pens would love to grab him.
Comparison: At top end, he could be similar to a Thomas Chabot-like player. He has some skating issues that may prevent that. Otherwise, maybe he becomes similar to a Kevin Shattenkirk type that plays middle pairing minutes, along with powerplays.
27. Boston: Brendan Brisson, C/LW
They have a tendency of drafting Americans. Brisson's been on the rise this year, especially after his excellent showing at the WJAC. He'd fit the mould of a modern day Bruins player, utilizing an all-around approach to the game with good scoring ability and can play a pro-style game.
Comparison: Nazem Kadri. He adds both offensive skill and some grind-it-out on the forecheck/backcheck type of game. He's capable of playing center, which is a boost to his stock.
28. Vegas: Jake Sanderson, D
A smooth-skating, two-way, all-around solid defender seems right up Vegas's alley. His upside may not be huge, but he can move the puck along, make passes, hit and play an excellent two-way game. He's also the son of former NHL'er, Geoff Sanderson, a noted speedster, with the swift skating running in the family.
Comparison: Ryan McDonagh. An all-around defenseman that keeps things simple with his excellent skating skill.
29. Washington: Zion Nybeck, RW
If he were 3-4 inches taller, he'd be a surefire top 15 selection, maybe even top 10. Alas, he's a short kid and that'll likely drop him. The Capitals love their Swedes, though; and he plays like a firebug on the ice, which could make him an optimal selection for the Caps.
Comparison: Travis Konecny. A smaller, yet feisty, forward with excellent two-way skill and a solid ability to work the powerplay with his playmaking skill.
30. Tampa Bay: Jake Neighbours, LW
The Bolts have drafted from out west in the first round the past few drafts. They'd love to add someone whose playstyle is perfectly built for playoff action. Neighbours is an all-around threat, who also owns some physicality, making him hard to play against.
Comparison: Tyler Bertuzzi. He's a guy that can do a little of everything -- from hitting to offensive play to two-way play. He can bring a lot of energy to the ice, with a Dustin Brown type possibly being his total upside.
31. St. Louis: Lukas Reichel, LW
They're the team that originally drafted Dominik Bokk. They go back to Germany and select Reichel, the third of the German trio that impressed at the World Juniors. Going my draft, it'd be the first time 3 Germans are taken in the first round, which would be impressive. He'd give the Blues some extra offensive skill.
Comparison: Jakob Silfverberg. With an excellent ability to shoot and score, he can also play a smart all-around game, which could aide him play a top 9 role.
Round 2
32. Detroit: Jack Quinn, RW
The Wings need an influx of talent, asap. Jack Quinn's an older prospect in this draft and has displayed some decent two-way upside. He's a first round quality player, with the Wings grabbing him to help boost their scoring depth.
Comparison: Reilly Smith. He's a smart, speedy, savvy two-way player that has sneaky good offensive upside.
33. Nashville [from New Jersey]: Thomas Bordeleau, C/LW
They love drafting players developing in American collegiate systems. Bordeleau's got first round level of talent, displaying good overall skill. His lack of size will drop him down the board, however.
Comparison: Mikael Granlund. Bordeleau's a smaller, shifty, playmaking forward that still has some work to do with his skating. However, he's got good skill and ability.
34. Ottawa: Justin Barron, D
Barron might drop for multiple reasons. He hasn't lived up to expectations and he's recently been diagnosed with blood clots. It'll be a little risky. That said, the Sens need depth on their right side of defense and he's got the size they love. He also plays in the Q, which they tend to love drafting from.
Comparison: Brady Skjei. He's a big defender with excellent mobility, but with questionable offensive upside.
35. Los Angeles: Topi Niemela, D
After winning the rights to Lafreniere, they grab a defenseman to boost their depth in that area. Niemela's got first round upside and profiles as a good mobile d-man.
Comparison: Nate Schmidt. He's a poised, calm, mobile defenseman that keeps things simple.
36. Anaheim: Helge Grans, D
There's a possibility that Grans could be a late-riser into the first round. For now, I'll have him here. He's an offense-first defenseman with good size, who's yet another Swedish talent that they'd love.
Comparison: Jeff Petry. He's a big defenseman that brings plenty of offensive talent from the point, with the ability to hammer pucks home.
37. San Jose: Joel Blomqvist, G
The Sharks need goaltending pretty badly. In this range, Blomqvist could be an option for them, with goalies with his level of talent usually going around the 2nd round range.
Comparison: Braden Holtby. A project goaltender with good size and ability that could profile as a future starter.
38. Carolina [from New York Rangers]: Joni Jurmo, D
After going with forwards for their first 2 selections, they take a d-man for their next pick. His combination of size and upside could get him picked earlier than expected.
Comparison: Mattias Ekholm. He's a big Finnish defenseman that plays a sound two-way game and also moves really well on the ice.
39. Montreal: Lukas Cormier, D
The only thing keeping him out of the first round is his lack of size. That said, his skating skill is impeccable and he's an offensive defenseman that unloads of barrage of shots on net. With the draft in Montreal, they could want to take a few kids from the Q and see how they develop.
Comparison: Adam Fox. What he lacks in size, he makes up for in offensive and skating ability.
40. Montreal [from Chicago]: William Villeneuve, D
Again, they grab a local kid. He's another guy that could be a late riser, as he's shown excellent all-around play. If Cormier gives them depth on the left side, Villeneuve increases depth on the right.
Comparison: Matt Niskanen. Bringing mobility and all-around play should be his style. He can put up points and play an effective two-way game, which would be ideal for the Habs as they need defensive depth.
41. Buffalo: Antonio Stranges, LW
They draft an American forward that's been playing in the OHL. A lot has been said about Stranges, yet his unique 10-2 skating stride allows him to effectively wage offensive skill against opponents. There may be consistency issues, which drops him into the 2nd. The Sabres need scoring depth, so taking Stranges is a risk worth taking.
Comparison: At top end, he could be like a Jeff Skinner, who also employs the same skating stride. Maybe more of a Jeremy Bracco, who has yet to find his footing as an NHL'er. Or maybe a Joshua ho-Sang type of pure offensive player that also has yet to find a spot as an NHL'er.
42. Nashville: Emil Andrae, D
The Preds love drafting for defense, developing them quite well. As such, they take Emil Andrae, who's undersized, yet has elite puck movement type skill.
Comparison: Jared Spurgeon. Andrae's on the smaller side, so it might drop him into the 2nd round. He's got excellent mobility and puck movement skill, though.
43. Minnesota: Tyson Foerster, RW
Here's a guy that's quickly moving up lists. He's probably on the brink of being a first rounder already. If he keeps scoring at his current pace, there's a good chance he moves up. For now, with Minnesota's need for goal scorers, I'll have them taking him.
Comparison: James Neal. His skating isn't ideal, although he launches a quick shot and can provide offense.
44. Ottawa [from Columbus]: Seth Jarvis, RW
The Sens could love his combination of speed and scoring. He can come up clutch in big games, making him a viable pickup tp help build up their core.
Comparison: Anthony Beauvillier. An energetic offensive winger that can score goals and play a two-way, skilled game.
45. Winnipeg: Ty Smilanic, LW/C
Another team that's known to scout heavily from American systems are the Jets. In this case, they take on Smilanic, who started the year as a first round candidate. He's got upside as probably a middle 6 talent, it's worth a crack at him here.
Comarison: Colin White. Smilanic plays a speedy, energetic game that could help boost special teams.
46. Philadelphia: Simon Kubicek, D
Named as one of the best players for the Czechs at the World Juniors, Kubicek could be shooting up draft lists. Not only can he play a very fine two-way game, but he also owns a right shot, which many teams covet and he has a cannon from the point.
Comparison: Ryan Pulock. He's an all-around type that can be physical, unleash heavy shots and play on a penalty kill.
47. Calgary: Martin Chromiak, LW
For some reason, the Flames love drafting Slovaks. With Chromiak coming to play in the OHL, he could be due to move up in rankings. This should be right around where he goes... at least for now.
Comparison: Mike Hoffman. He profiles as a goal-scoring offensive threat with some two-way accumen.
48. Edmonton: Justin Sourdif, RW
He feels like the type of player that'd gel well with the current Oilers core. They need forwards and he has potential as a secondary, jack-of-all-trades scorer with all of the energy he can provide.
Comparison: Jason Zucker. He's a high-motor player that drives fast to the net and enjoys scoring goals.
49. Florida: Kasper Simontaival, RW
The Panthers love drafting Finns. Simontaival has first round potential, dropping down solely because of issues with consistency and skating. That said, they take a chance on him, feeling they can develop him.
Comparison: At top end, he could be like a Viktor Arvidsson type of player. Simontaival, much like Arvidsson, is an undersized goal scorer with less than perfect skating. They're both good at placing themselves where to score, though.
50. Vancouver: Kaiden Guhle, D
They grab a swift, mobile, physical defenseman to potentially play behind Quinn Hughes. This way, they're able to send out a bigger, shutdown type after Hughes's explosive offensive play.
Comparison: Adam Pelech. Playing a shutdown style is his forte. Coincidentally, he also contributes with some simple, effective offensive play.
51. Carolina: Jaromir Pytlik, C/RW
While his offense is questionable, Pytlik certainly has the fit to be a perfect shutdown centerman that can be a workhouse on a penalty kill. If he can develop his offense, he could become an excellent force. For now, the 'Canes could take him, giving them depth and size at center.
Comparison: Radek Faksa. Not a great skater, Pytlik has the ability to fight like a dog on the PK. He can also hold his own in the shooting department.
52. Arizona: Michael Benning, D
Undersized and maybe underrated, Benning's putting up excellent numbers in the lesser AJHL. He'll be going to the University of Denver next year, with the Coyotes jumping on him, allowing him time to develop, hoping his offense can translate.
Comparison: Torey Krug. Like Krug, he's quite undersized for a defenseman. Nevertheless, he brings amazing firepower and has been putting up a PPG similar to that of Cale Makar.
53. Ottawa [from Dallas]: Dylan Peterson, RW
It's probably a little early for him, but the Sens love drafting for size and they're known for scouting heavily in the US developmental systems. He's a lot what they look for in players.
Comparison: Austin Watson. He's a big power forward that skates as well as he hits. May not have the most scoring upside.
54. Toronto: Ryan O'Rourke, D
Often referred to as a "throwback defenseman", O'Rourke hits, blocks shots and can be a heart and soul type with a heavy shot. Playing in Sault Ste Marie could get him on the Leafs radar; and if he's there, I don't see them passing on him.
Comparison: Damon Severson. He's a taleneted all-around defender that hits and plays many different roles.
55. New York Islanders: Carson Bantle, LW
It wouldn't surprise me if they went the route of American collegiate systems again. They like drafting from there and he's got a lot of tools that they could like. Not only is he a tall kid, he's also a skilled winger, boosting the Isles more more in this position.
Comparison: Kevin Hayes. As stated, he's a big winger that offers some potent skill and offense. He's a project with some upside.
56. Washington [from Colorado]: Shakir Mukhamadullin, D
If he's still here, they'd find it hard to pass on him. After an excellent WJAC tournament, in which he looked like a dominant shutdown type of defenseman, he might shoot up draft boards. He seems like a good bet to go in the 2nd round and he seems like the type of Russian defenseman that they'd love to develop.
Comparison: Johnny Boychuk. He's a physical Russian with a hard shot that he likes to get on net.
57. Vegas [from Pittsburgh]: Pavel Novak, LW/RW
The Golden Knights taken a smooth-skating, offensive forward with excellent creativity. He's been jumping up draft boards and this seems right around the location for him to go. After serving a suspension, he's come back and been a ball of fire and energy, putting up an excellent amount of points.
Comparison: Ondrej Kase. This Czech forward's got a whole lot of creativity, thanks to his crafty vision and hands.
58. Boston: Ozzy Weisblatt, RW
His style of play perfectly matches what the Bruins look for. He makes it hard to play against, while also displaying some offensive potential and hard-working skill.
Comparison: Ondrej Palat. Not a huge guy on the ice; he's a hard-working, energetic player with some offensive firebug skill that adds a two-way element and overall play.
59. Vegas: Daniil Guschin, RW
The Russian factor, along with his lack of size and strength truly holds him back from getting drafted higher. Nonetheless, he's got an abundant amount of talent and skill. With teams still looking for and loving size, it might result in him dropping somewhat.
Comparison: Nikita Gusev. An undersized forward with dubious skill and upside that's hampered a little by inconsistency and size.
60. Detroit [from Washington]: Theodor Niederbach, C
When it comes to drafting Swedes, they're very shrew and quick to the draw. I could see them liking Niederbach. Plus the fact that he can play center is surely a bonus. He could be another guy that's on the rise by the time everything's said and done.
Comparison: Gustav Nyquist. Niederbach's a naturally skilled forward with good hockey sense, who can create scoring chances, as long as put the puck in the net by himself.
61. Tampa Bay: Luke Tuch, LW
His size and power forward ability could get him taken within the top 62. A team like Tampa that has a bevy of smaller, skilled guys could be inclined to give him a shot, hoping his style can make them a little heavier upfront. And yes, he is the brother of Vegas's Alex Tuch.
Comparison: Oskar Sundqvist. I'm not sold on him having major offensive upside. He does, however, seem like a good fit as a bottom 6 guy that'll use his body and make things difficult for opponents.
62. St. Louis: Yan Kuznetsov, D
They won the Cup based on the play of their big defensemen. They rotate back to that, taking on the big, mobile defenseman, Kuznetsov. He's a big-time project that stands tall and has intriguing upside.
Comparison: Phillippe Myers. It remains to be seen just how much offensive upside he has. That said, he moves well for a big guy. At minimum, he can be a stay-at-home type.
Some guys that just missed the cut:
Carter Savoie; Ryan Francis; Tyler Tullio; Marat Khusnitdinov; Veeti Miettinen; Alexander Pashin; Connor McClennon; Sean Farrell, etc.. Basically, a bunch of smaller guys.
Then we've got projects such Samuel Knazko; Alexander Nikishin; Eemil Viro; Roby Jarventie; Nick Malik; Michal Gut; Jack Thompson. A lot of these guys would probably go in my 3rd round, which I will do in February. There's still a lot of hockey left to be played, so there's plenty of time for movement up and down the board.
