spfan
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- May 4, 2009
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These are not predictions. This is how I would pick if I were each team.
1. Buffalo Sabres - D Owen Power 6'5" 214lbs
NCAA 26GP 3G 13A 16pts
It's been talked about as a more wide open draft, but Owen Power has been pretty consistently been ranked #1 just about everywhere. While Eichel looks like he's on his way out, they still have to take the BPA here. It was just 3 years ago they took another D-man 1st overall, but it wouldn't hurt to get another and really solidify their D-core for years. Power comes with massive size and has good skating to go along with that. He can do just about everything. PP, PK, even strength. Even if he never becomes the next Hedman, he should be a very solid d-man at the very least. This could be a rare year where the 1st overall pick doesn't jump to the NHL immediately, but I think he could step in and look fine.
Comparisons: Victor Hedman, Darnell Nurse
Alternate pick: Matthew Beniers
2. Seattle Kraken - C Matthew Beniers 6'1" 174lbs
NCAA 24GP 10G 14A 24pts
Beniers has shown to be the most competitive with Power as top ranked prospect in this draft class. This would be a great start to building a new franchise by getting a #1 Center. While Beniers isn't a McDavid or Matthews, he could be a Bergeron, Toews type of #1 Center. Beniers is a good skater, passes and shoots well and he's a very competitive two-way player with lots of drive and heart. Another player that might play another year of college, but could possibly step into the NHL right away.
Comarisons: Patrice Bergeron, Jonathan Toews
Alternate picks: Brandt Clarke, Luke Hughes
3. Anaheim Ducks - LW/RW Dylan Guenther 6'1" 181lbs
WHL 12GP 12G 12A 24pts
With the weird year, it left some prospects with much less games played than normal, so Guenther didn't have as large of a sample to see what he can do, but in the 12 WHL games this season, he produced greatly and had a good showing at the U-18's as well. Anaheim has a solid group of D-men and with a player like Zegras, Guenther could be a great linemate for him. Guenther is a little thin now, but he has the frame to put on more weight. He's a good skater, with a very good shot and good playmaking as well. He also brings a solid two-way game and has some grit as well. He should be a safe pick for a top 6 winger, but also with high upside. He'll need at least 1 more year of junior, if not 2 before he makes the
NHL jump.
Comparisons: Jonathan Huberdeau, Kyle Connor
Alternate picks: William Eklund, Luke Hughes
4. New Jersey Devils - D Brandt Clarke 6'2" 190lbs
SVK 26GP 5G 10A 15pts
With no OHL season, it did hurt Clarke a little with needing to switch leagues and getting less exposure and less of a sample size, but he did shine at the U-18's. There is a 4 or even 5 d-men in this draft class that are relatively close, but after Power, I see Clarke as the next best. He's the only RHD of the bunch as well and that's exactly what NJ could use. While some would think Luke Hughes makes sense because he's also a d-man and Jack's brother, I just don't see him as quite as good as Clarke and the handedness helps Clarke's case too. NJ already have two recent 1st round picks spent on LHD. Clarke has good speed, very smart and I think could definitely be compared to recent RHD picked high like Makar and Drysdale. He would definitely help provide stability to their D-core and help their young forwards like Hughes and Hischier get more offensive production. He'll need 1-2 years before he makes the NHL jump.
Comparisons: Cale Makar, John Klingberg
Alternate picks: Luke Hughes, William Eklund
5. Columbus Blue Jackets - D Luke Hughes 6'2" 176lbs
USDP 38GP 6G 28A 34pts
There's been a lot of talk about him, seeing as he's the 3rd of the Hughes brothers. He'll be the 3rd to be picked high as well. 1 difference is he's definitely got more height to him, so that'll bring some more attractiveness from scouts. He's not quite as good of a skater as his brothers, but he's still a good skater.
Defensively there will be some work to made, similar to Quinn. But he's definitely dynamic offensively as well. With the recent talk about Seth Jones wanting out of Columbus, that'll put a huge hole in their defense. And while there's still going to be Werenski and Hughes is not a RHD like Jones is, it'll still be an important void to fill. And not much argument that he wouldn't be the BPA here either. Hughes will need a couple of years before making the jump to the NHL.
Comparisons: Roman Josi, Zach Werenski
Alternate picks: Simon Edvinsson, William Eklund
6. Detroit Red Wings - D Simon Edvinsson 6'5" 207lbs
Allsvenskan 14GP 0G 5A 5pts
They took a big d-man 6th overall 2 years ago, so here comes another. They've built a decent group of forwards, so they need to start building up that d-core as well. Edvinsson, Seider could be a scary combo for years, whether they're paired together or not. Edvinsson is slightly divisive among scouts, but still consistently ranked within the top 10. Similar to Hughes, he is a raw talent, but definitely has high potential. He's got size and brings good skating as well. Similar to Power, does draw some comparisons to Hedman as well. Defensively, he's inconsistent, so he'll definitely need to round out that side of his game. Could definitely become one of the best picks of this draft when looking back years later though. He'll need a couple of years before he's NHL ready.
Comparisons: Dougie Hamilton, Rasmus Ristolainen
Alternate picks: William Eklund, Kent Johnson
7. San Jose Sharks - LW/C William Eklund 5'10 180lbs
SHL 40GP 11G 12A 23pts
Some are higher on him, but it's not that I'm necessarily lower on him, it's just a lot of these players are very close together. In a draft that's more top heavy with d-men, Eklund is definitely 1 of the best forwards. He is on the smaller side though, but he definitely has the skill to make up for it. He's more likely to be a winger in the NHL, but a chance he could be a center. He has drawn some comparisons to Sebastian Aho, who did end up being a #1 center, after being looked at as more of a winger. San Jose were a playoff contender for many years, so it lead to their prospect pool being not so impressive, but they're starting to build it more. Eklund would definitely elevate it a lot. San Jose could use just about everything at this point, so they're getting the BPA here. Eklund might only be 1 year away from NHL ready.
Comparisons: Viktor Arvidsson, Nikolaj Ehlers
Alternate picks: Kent Johnson, Jesper Wallstedt
8. L.A. Kings - C/LW Kent Johnson 6'1" 170lbs
NCAA 26GP 9G 18A 27pts
Similar to Edvinsson, Johnson is a bit divisive amongst scouts. Some see a top 2-3 player, some might not take him even in the top 10. Johnson is a boom or bust prospect. He's either going to be a top 6/star player or nothing in the NHL. But due to his skill and upside, you can't let him slide any further. He has played some center, but he's most likely much more fit to be a winger in the NHL and with who LA already has anyways, Johnson won't need to be a center. While he is on the thin side now, he has the frame to put on more mass eventually. He's arguably the most dynamic player in this whole draft, but there's also the biggest flaws to his
game as well, like on the defensive side. He has drawn quite a bit of comparison to Casey Mittelstadt, who has struggled in the NHL, but lately has been starting to put it together. Johnson is probably further away from being NHL ready than the others above, but he could be absolutely worth it.
Comparisons: Mathew Barzal, Ryan Strome
Alternate picks: Jesper Wallstedt, Carson Lambos
9. Arizona Coyotes - D Carson Lambos 6'1" 201lbs
U20 SM 13GP 2G 9A 11pts
Most aren't as high on him as me, but there's been a few scouts who like him this much as well. I don't think he's far off at all from the other 4 d-men above. With losing OEL, they could use another top d-man to come in to fill that void. Lambos can be that all around d-man that solidifies their defense more. He can definitely be a top 4 d-man and I think he's a very safe pick, but still has good upside. He's got size, brings physicality, strong skating as well. The only real knock is that he's not that dymanic offensively and maybe not elite at anything, but he also has no weakness though either. His lack of games played is likely why he isn't getting ranked higher on most lists.
Lambos could be NHL ready in 2-3 years.
Comparisons: Jakob Chychrun, Charlie McAvoy
Alternate picks: Mason McTavish, Chaz Lucius
10. Ottawa Senators - G Jesper Wallstedt 6'3" 214lbs
SHL 22GP 2.23GAA .908sv%
With having just drafted Stutzle, as well as having Norris, I see their center situation being solved already. Their goalie situation is more questionable to me, so this is somewhat of a "need" pick, you also can't deny Wallstedt has as high of value as anyone left and there's a solid chance he'll even be drafted already. Goalies are a gamble, but I think Ottawa is in a situation now that they can do that and Wallstedt can clearly be seen as the BPA as well. Wallstedt might be looked back one day like Vasilevsky is now. While Vasilevsky didn't go this high, he was still a 1st rounder and even still could have went a lot higher. He's got modern day NHL ideal size, but has all the technical skills and agility you want from an elite goaltender. You might have to wait longer for him than other forwards and d-men, but he could be well worth the wait.
Comparison: Andrei Vasilevsky, Carey Price
Alternate picks: Mason McTavish, Chaz Lucius
11. Chicago Blackhawks - C Mason McTavish 6'2" 207lbs
SL 13GP 9G 2A 11pts
Another player that was hurt by no OHL season, but he did play some games in Switzerland and did well there. He mostly shined at the U-18's. He's been a riser in draft rankings over the last few months. I see him more as a #2 Center, rather than a #1 and this isn't a particularly strong draft class for Centers, but McTavish is still a good player. He's got size and brings grit and still is a solid skater with offensive skills to go with it. He's a do it all type of Center. While Chicago does have Dach to be their future #1 Center, there has been some questions about their depth down the middle after Toews missed the whole season and he's only getting older and Strome had a down year after looking quite good the year before. McTavish will need a year or two before he's NHL ready.
Alternate picks: Chaz Lucius, Cole Sillinger
Comparisons: Bo Horvat, Jordan Staal
12. Calgary Flames - C/RW Chaz Lucius 6'0" 172lbs
USDP 13GP 13G 7A 20pts
Calgary is sort of in a re-tool phase right now. Lucius would be a solid fit in their top 6. Lucius is one of the best goal scorers in the draft and is very skilled. His big weakness is his average skating. He can play center and wing, but probably better suited on the wing in the NHL. He's on the thin side, so he'll need to put on some muscle. He's going to be a few years away from the NHL.
Alternate picks: Cole Sillinger, Fabian Lysell
Comparisons: Brock Boeser, Tyler Toffoli
13. Buffalo Sabres - C/LW Cole Sillinger 6'0" 201lbs
USHL 31GP 24G 22A 46pts
Buffalo is up with their second 1st round pick and this time, they grab 1 of the top forwards available. Another player that can play center and wing, but probably better suited at wing in the NHL. He's got NHL bloodlines as his dad had a long NHL career. So he'll know what it takes to be a pro. Sillinger is solidly built already and he's also one of the more skilled forwards in the draft. He's a good goal scorer and overall offensive threat. Similar to Lucius as well, his skating could be better. He'll be 2-3 away from the NHL.
Alternate picks: Fabian Lysell, Corson Ceulemans
Comparisons: Tyler Toffoli, TJ Oshie
14. Dallas Stars - RW Fabian Lysell 5'10" 172lbs
SHL 26GP 2G 1A 3pts
The Stars issue has kind of been scoring depth and they do need to inject more youth into their lineup as players like Radulov, Pavelski, Benn are getting older. Lysell does have experience against men already, but obviously in more limited ice time. He did shine more in the U-18's. Lysell is a boom or bust type player, but
he offers pretty high upside. He's quite skilled, has a good shot and has good speed. He'll need to develop a few more years in the SHL before he's NHL ready.
Alternate picks: Fyodor Svechkov, Matt Coronato
Comparisons: Kevin Fiala, Jakub Vrana
15. New York Rangers - C Fyodor Svechkov 6'0" 179lbs
MHL 15GP 4G 11A 15pts
The NYR have had lots of wealth with young players lately. They don't have much weaknesses at this point. Zibanejad has emerged as a #1 center. Ryan Strome has been productive as well and there still is Chytill as well for Center options, but this is arguably the BPA and fills somewhat of a need. Svechkov was 1 of the biggest shining stars of the U-18's. His draft stock has gone way up since then. And again, with this not being a strong draft for centers, he is 1 of the few higher end ones. He's one of the best two-way players in the draft and he likely ends up a 3C at worst, but with the U-18's he showed how much skill and offensive upside he has too. He could end up a #2 Center for the NYR. There may be a little risk with Russian players, but he'll need time to develop anyways, so he can spend a few years developing in the KHL and he could be well worth the wait.
Alternate picks: Autu Raty, Francesco Pinelli
Comparisons: Ryan O'Reilly, Logan Couture
16. St. Louis Blues - D Corson Ceulemans 6'2" 201lbs
AJHL 8GP 4G 7A 11pts
There's a big hole on the Blues defense since Pietrangelo left and now Vince Dunn too. While Ceulemans will likely not completely fill that void, he should be able to ease some of the pain. Ceulemans did play in a lower level league, but so did Cale Makar and look how great he is now. He didn't get to play a ton of games this year, but had a solid season and showed a bit more at the U-18's as well. He's got good size and solid offensive upside. Defensively, he needs to work on rounding out that side of his game though. But his potential is a solid top 4 d-man. He'll be able to develop for a few years in the NCAA and could be NHL ready by then.
Alternate picks: Matt Coronato, Autu Raty
Comparisons: Alec Martinez, Cody Ceci
17. Winnipeg Jets - LW/RW Matt Coronato 5'10" 183lbs
USHL 51GP 48G 37A 85pts
While the Jets could probably use a d-man a little more, there's none quite in this range that are worth it. With Laine gone and Wheeler getting older, they could use someone in their prospect pool to come in and fill that void eventually. Coronato was one of the best producing players in this draft class, albeit in a somewhat
lesser league. Similar to players like Sillinger, Lucius, Lysell, he is kind of in that grouping of skilled wingers that have top 6 upside. And alike them, also a good goal scorer. He'll be spending a few years in the NCAA to develop and could be quite a player after that.
Alternate picks: Zachary L'Heureux, Autu Raty
Comparisons: Jake Guentzel, Oliver Bjorkstrand
18. Nashville Predators - C Autu Raty 6'1" 181lbs
Liiga 35GP 3G 3A 6pts
One of the most interesting prospects in this whole draft because a year ago, he was ranked #1, but after a very disappointing season in Liiga, as well as not even making Finland's U-20 team, there's been a lot of uncertainty about Raty now. On one hand, this is a very risky pick because you usually want to see progress with young prospects and Raty hasn't really shown it, but on the other hand, Raty is a good two-way player and has enough skill still, that he could be a 3C at worse. He's also the type of player that Nashville has always liked, players with well rounded games. At this point in the draft, I think he's worth it. At worst, he could still be a 3C, at best maybe he starts to show why he used to be ranked so high. And despite his draft stock dropping, most scouts still see a worthy 1st round pick. He'll need a few years before he's NHL ready.
Alternate picks: Francesco Pinelli, Zachary L'Heureux
Comparisons: Mikael Backlund, Brandon Sutter
19. Edmonton Oilers - G Sebastian Cossa 6'6" 212lbs
WHL 1.57GAA .941sv%
Another wild card in the draft, especially being a goalie. He could definitely end up being picked higher than this. Some scouts have even preferred him over Wallstedt. Oilers have shown some improvement, but they still seem to kind of lack a true identity. They have McDavid and Draisaitl, but a bunch of question marks with the rest of their team. Klefbom's career is in doubt, so that puts a big hole in their defense. But a big issue has been goaltending for years. Mike Smith did have a good season, but he's 39 and he's definitely not a long term solution. Cossa has huge size, so that is quite ideal for the modern NHL. He had an outstanding season in the WHL. Goalies are typically a longer wait, but we did see Spencer Knight step into the NHL sooner than expected.
Alternate picks: Zachary L'Heureux, Francesco Pinelli
Comparisons: Pekka Rinne, Jacob Markstrom
20. Boston Bruins - C/LW Zachary L'Heureux 5'11" 198lbs
QMJHL 33GP 19G 20A 39pts
Boston are a bit of an aging team and could just use the BPA. L'Heureux is arguably that, but he's also a very Bruins type of player. He is so reminiscent of a player they already have in Marchand too. He has a bit of size on Marchand though. He may never be as productive as Marchand, but it did take him a while to get there himself too. While L'Heureux isn't a 6'4" hulking power forward, he definitely doesn't shy from physical contact. He's a very gritty player, but also a big agitator as well. Of course the downside is that he can go overboard and can be more costly to his team sometimes. Scouts seem to be a bit divisive on him, but I think he's got top 6 upside and would be a very good player especially when it comes to the playoffs. He'll be a few years away from the NHL.
Alternate picks: Francesco Pinelli, Logan Stankoven
Comparisons: Matthew Tkachuk, Brad Marchand
21. Minnesota Wild - C Francesco Pinelli 6'1" 185lbs
AlpsHL 13GP 5G 6A 11pts
After getting Rossi in the 2020 Draft, the Wild grab another Center to build more down the middle. Pinelli is a solid two-way player with good speed. He projects as a middle six center. I think he fits their team well. His stock was hurt a little due to needing to play in a lower level league because of no OHL season. He had a solid performance at the U-18's. He'll be a few years away from the NHL.
Alternate picks: Logan Stankoven, Xavier Bourgault
Comparisons: Vincent Trocheck, JG Pageau
22. Detroit Red Wings - C/RW Logan Stankoven 5'8" 170lbs
WHL 6GP 7G 3A 10pts
Due to the weird year, he only got to play a limited number of games in the WHL, but he produced well. He was solid at the U-18's as well. While he lacks in stature, he does make up for it with a relentless motor. He's also a pretty good offensive player with a good shot. He should be able to turn into an important role player in any teams top 9 and still has good upside. He'll be a few years away from the NHL.
Alternate picks: Xavier Bourgault, Nikita Chibrikov
Comparisons: Paul Byron, Yanni Gourde
23. Florida Panthers - D Daniil Chayka 6'3" 185lbs
KHL 11GP 1G 1A 2pts
With the recent buyout of Yandle, the Panthers could use some help on the defensive side for the future and in their prospect pool. Chayka is more of a defensive d-man, but has some offense to his game too. He'll need to fill out, but he's got a big frame. He should turn into a big d-man that can play physical and help shutdown
other teams top lines. He was set for another OHL season, but due to no season, he went to the KHL to play against men. He obviously got less games and less ice time due to that, but can also be beneficial in some ways too. He's got experience against men now. He'll be a few years away from the NHL.
Alternate picks: Nikita Chibrikov, Brennan Othmann
Comparisons: Niklas Hjalmarsson, Esa Lindell
24. Columbus Blue Jackets - C/W Xavier Bourgault 6'0" 172lbs
QMJHL 29GP 20G 20A 40pts
Columbus has three 1sts, so they'll look to take a forward this time. Bourgault can play center or wing, could go either way in the NHL. He produced fairly well in the QMJHL this year. He's quite a skilled player. Pretty good goal scorer and playmaker. Has 2nd line upside. We'll need to continue working on the defensive side of things and add more muscle to his body. He'll be a few years away from the NHL.
Alternate picks: Nikita Chibrikov, Brennan Othmann
Comparisons: Alex Killorn, Tomas Tatar
25. Minnesota Wild - LW/RW Nikita Chibrikov 5'10" 172lbs
KHL 16GP 1G 1A 2pts
The Wild use their second 1st rounder to grab a winger this time. They've had good success with Kaprizov, so they bring in another skilled Russian winger. Chibrikov is a smaller player, but he's quite skilled. He's a good goal scorer and playmaker. He played in a few Russian leagues this year, but he really shined at the U-18's.
He's more of a boom or bust pick, but definitely has the upside. Wild were patient with Karpizov, so no rush for Chibrikov either as they can wait a few years.
Alternate picks: Brennan Othmann, Zachary Bolduc
Comparisons: Anthony Duclair, Oliver Bjorkstrand
26. Carolina Hurricanes - LW Brennan Othmann 6'0" 174lbs
SL 34GP 7G 9A 16pts
Carolina will look to get more forward depth. Othmann has top 6 upside and has some grit to his game as well. He'll need to gain strength to be further effective at the NHL level though. He had to play in Switzerland this season due to no OHL season, but he was solid there and also showed more at the U-18's as well. He'll be a few years away from the NHL.
Alternate picks: Sasha Pastujov, Isak Rosen
Comparisons: Patric Hornqvist, Gabriel Landeskog
27. Colorado Avalanche - C/LW Zachary Bolduc 6'1" 174lbs
QMJHL 27GP 10G 19A 29pts
Bolduc is a good skater and quite skilled. He can play center and wing, so he's a versatile forward. He had some injuries this year, so it held him back some. With Colorado losing Donskoi to the expansion draft, this will help fill the void in the future. He's got top 6 upside. He'll need to further develop his defensive game
to become an even more effective two-way threat. He's a few years away from being NHL ready.
Alternate picks: Sasha Pastujov, Isak Rosen
Comparisons: David Krejci, Josh Bailey
28. New Jersey Devils - LW Sasha Pastujov 6'0" 183lbs
USHL 18GP 10G 16A 26pts
NJ is back with their second 1st round pick and this time they grab a forward and they get a LW with top 6 upside to hopefully play with their star centers one day. Pastujov was 1 of the more productive players this season in the USHL and USDP. He's one of the more skilled players in the draft as well as one of the better goal scorers. Defensively, he needs to improve, but he's worth picking at this point due to his upside. He can spend a few years in the NCAA and he could be NHL ready after that.
Alternate picks: Isak Rosen, Simon Robertson
Comparisons: Dominik Kubalik, Victor Olofsson
29. Vegas Golden Knights - LW/RW Isak Rosen 5'11" 161lbs
SHL 22GP 0G 1A 1pt
What he lacks in size, he makes up for it in skill. He's one of the flashiest players in the draft. He's also spent time playing against men, so he is somewhat accustomed to playing against bigger, stronger players already. He did see more limited minutes, but he did have a bigger role in the U-18's and he scored often. Putting on more weight and getting stronger will obviously be needed. He'll need to spend a few years in the SHL before he's ready for the NHL.
Alternate picks: Simon Robertson, Scott Morrow
Comparisons: Kailer Yamamoto, Nikita Gusev
30. Montreal Canadiens - D Stanislav Svozil 6'0" 172lbs
Czech 30GP 1G 2A 3pts
With Weber's future in doubt and just lack of defensive depth, they look to improve that area. Svozil is more of a classic shut-down d-man. While he isn't a big d-man, he's a good skater, that defends very well using an active stick and good positioning. Offensively, he's more limited, but he has top 4 upside still. He's been playing in the top Czech league, so he's adept to playing against men already. It'll be a few years before he's NHL ready.
Alternate picks: Scott Morrow, Sean Behrens
Comparisons: Jonas Brodin, Niklas Hjalmarsson
31. Columbus Blue Jacekts - D Scott Morrow 6'2" 192lbs
USHS-Prep 30GP 8G 40A 48pts
With their third 1st round pick, Columbus go back to defense and grab a RHD this time and so Morrow and Hughes combined, should be able to help fill that future void of Seth Jones. Morrow has got solid size, but he moves very well as well. While he didn't play at a high level, he looked very good in prep school. He's more offense than defense, but he should be able to round out his game more when he spends a few years in the NCAA.
Alternate picks: Sean Behrens, Mackie Samoskevich
Comparisons: Justin Schultz, Colin Miller
1. Buffalo Sabres - D Owen Power 6'5" 214lbs
NCAA 26GP 3G 13A 16pts
It's been talked about as a more wide open draft, but Owen Power has been pretty consistently been ranked #1 just about everywhere. While Eichel looks like he's on his way out, they still have to take the BPA here. It was just 3 years ago they took another D-man 1st overall, but it wouldn't hurt to get another and really solidify their D-core for years. Power comes with massive size and has good skating to go along with that. He can do just about everything. PP, PK, even strength. Even if he never becomes the next Hedman, he should be a very solid d-man at the very least. This could be a rare year where the 1st overall pick doesn't jump to the NHL immediately, but I think he could step in and look fine.
Comparisons: Victor Hedman, Darnell Nurse
Alternate pick: Matthew Beniers
2. Seattle Kraken - C Matthew Beniers 6'1" 174lbs
NCAA 24GP 10G 14A 24pts
Beniers has shown to be the most competitive with Power as top ranked prospect in this draft class. This would be a great start to building a new franchise by getting a #1 Center. While Beniers isn't a McDavid or Matthews, he could be a Bergeron, Toews type of #1 Center. Beniers is a good skater, passes and shoots well and he's a very competitive two-way player with lots of drive and heart. Another player that might play another year of college, but could possibly step into the NHL right away.
Comarisons: Patrice Bergeron, Jonathan Toews
Alternate picks: Brandt Clarke, Luke Hughes
3. Anaheim Ducks - LW/RW Dylan Guenther 6'1" 181lbs
WHL 12GP 12G 12A 24pts
With the weird year, it left some prospects with much less games played than normal, so Guenther didn't have as large of a sample to see what he can do, but in the 12 WHL games this season, he produced greatly and had a good showing at the U-18's as well. Anaheim has a solid group of D-men and with a player like Zegras, Guenther could be a great linemate for him. Guenther is a little thin now, but he has the frame to put on more weight. He's a good skater, with a very good shot and good playmaking as well. He also brings a solid two-way game and has some grit as well. He should be a safe pick for a top 6 winger, but also with high upside. He'll need at least 1 more year of junior, if not 2 before he makes the
NHL jump.
Comparisons: Jonathan Huberdeau, Kyle Connor
Alternate picks: William Eklund, Luke Hughes
4. New Jersey Devils - D Brandt Clarke 6'2" 190lbs
SVK 26GP 5G 10A 15pts
With no OHL season, it did hurt Clarke a little with needing to switch leagues and getting less exposure and less of a sample size, but he did shine at the U-18's. There is a 4 or even 5 d-men in this draft class that are relatively close, but after Power, I see Clarke as the next best. He's the only RHD of the bunch as well and that's exactly what NJ could use. While some would think Luke Hughes makes sense because he's also a d-man and Jack's brother, I just don't see him as quite as good as Clarke and the handedness helps Clarke's case too. NJ already have two recent 1st round picks spent on LHD. Clarke has good speed, very smart and I think could definitely be compared to recent RHD picked high like Makar and Drysdale. He would definitely help provide stability to their D-core and help their young forwards like Hughes and Hischier get more offensive production. He'll need 1-2 years before he makes the NHL jump.
Comparisons: Cale Makar, John Klingberg
Alternate picks: Luke Hughes, William Eklund
5. Columbus Blue Jackets - D Luke Hughes 6'2" 176lbs
USDP 38GP 6G 28A 34pts
There's been a lot of talk about him, seeing as he's the 3rd of the Hughes brothers. He'll be the 3rd to be picked high as well. 1 difference is he's definitely got more height to him, so that'll bring some more attractiveness from scouts. He's not quite as good of a skater as his brothers, but he's still a good skater.
Defensively there will be some work to made, similar to Quinn. But he's definitely dynamic offensively as well. With the recent talk about Seth Jones wanting out of Columbus, that'll put a huge hole in their defense. And while there's still going to be Werenski and Hughes is not a RHD like Jones is, it'll still be an important void to fill. And not much argument that he wouldn't be the BPA here either. Hughes will need a couple of years before making the jump to the NHL.
Comparisons: Roman Josi, Zach Werenski
Alternate picks: Simon Edvinsson, William Eklund
6. Detroit Red Wings - D Simon Edvinsson 6'5" 207lbs
Allsvenskan 14GP 0G 5A 5pts
They took a big d-man 6th overall 2 years ago, so here comes another. They've built a decent group of forwards, so they need to start building up that d-core as well. Edvinsson, Seider could be a scary combo for years, whether they're paired together or not. Edvinsson is slightly divisive among scouts, but still consistently ranked within the top 10. Similar to Hughes, he is a raw talent, but definitely has high potential. He's got size and brings good skating as well. Similar to Power, does draw some comparisons to Hedman as well. Defensively, he's inconsistent, so he'll definitely need to round out that side of his game. Could definitely become one of the best picks of this draft when looking back years later though. He'll need a couple of years before he's NHL ready.
Comparisons: Dougie Hamilton, Rasmus Ristolainen
Alternate picks: William Eklund, Kent Johnson
7. San Jose Sharks - LW/C William Eklund 5'10 180lbs
SHL 40GP 11G 12A 23pts
Some are higher on him, but it's not that I'm necessarily lower on him, it's just a lot of these players are very close together. In a draft that's more top heavy with d-men, Eklund is definitely 1 of the best forwards. He is on the smaller side though, but he definitely has the skill to make up for it. He's more likely to be a winger in the NHL, but a chance he could be a center. He has drawn some comparisons to Sebastian Aho, who did end up being a #1 center, after being looked at as more of a winger. San Jose were a playoff contender for many years, so it lead to their prospect pool being not so impressive, but they're starting to build it more. Eklund would definitely elevate it a lot. San Jose could use just about everything at this point, so they're getting the BPA here. Eklund might only be 1 year away from NHL ready.
Comparisons: Viktor Arvidsson, Nikolaj Ehlers
Alternate picks: Kent Johnson, Jesper Wallstedt
8. L.A. Kings - C/LW Kent Johnson 6'1" 170lbs
NCAA 26GP 9G 18A 27pts
Similar to Edvinsson, Johnson is a bit divisive amongst scouts. Some see a top 2-3 player, some might not take him even in the top 10. Johnson is a boom or bust prospect. He's either going to be a top 6/star player or nothing in the NHL. But due to his skill and upside, you can't let him slide any further. He has played some center, but he's most likely much more fit to be a winger in the NHL and with who LA already has anyways, Johnson won't need to be a center. While he is on the thin side now, he has the frame to put on more mass eventually. He's arguably the most dynamic player in this whole draft, but there's also the biggest flaws to his
game as well, like on the defensive side. He has drawn quite a bit of comparison to Casey Mittelstadt, who has struggled in the NHL, but lately has been starting to put it together. Johnson is probably further away from being NHL ready than the others above, but he could be absolutely worth it.
Comparisons: Mathew Barzal, Ryan Strome
Alternate picks: Jesper Wallstedt, Carson Lambos
9. Arizona Coyotes - D Carson Lambos 6'1" 201lbs
U20 SM 13GP 2G 9A 11pts
Most aren't as high on him as me, but there's been a few scouts who like him this much as well. I don't think he's far off at all from the other 4 d-men above. With losing OEL, they could use another top d-man to come in to fill that void. Lambos can be that all around d-man that solidifies their defense more. He can definitely be a top 4 d-man and I think he's a very safe pick, but still has good upside. He's got size, brings physicality, strong skating as well. The only real knock is that he's not that dymanic offensively and maybe not elite at anything, but he also has no weakness though either. His lack of games played is likely why he isn't getting ranked higher on most lists.
Lambos could be NHL ready in 2-3 years.
Comparisons: Jakob Chychrun, Charlie McAvoy
Alternate picks: Mason McTavish, Chaz Lucius
10. Ottawa Senators - G Jesper Wallstedt 6'3" 214lbs
SHL 22GP 2.23GAA .908sv%
With having just drafted Stutzle, as well as having Norris, I see their center situation being solved already. Their goalie situation is more questionable to me, so this is somewhat of a "need" pick, you also can't deny Wallstedt has as high of value as anyone left and there's a solid chance he'll even be drafted already. Goalies are a gamble, but I think Ottawa is in a situation now that they can do that and Wallstedt can clearly be seen as the BPA as well. Wallstedt might be looked back one day like Vasilevsky is now. While Vasilevsky didn't go this high, he was still a 1st rounder and even still could have went a lot higher. He's got modern day NHL ideal size, but has all the technical skills and agility you want from an elite goaltender. You might have to wait longer for him than other forwards and d-men, but he could be well worth the wait.
Comparison: Andrei Vasilevsky, Carey Price
Alternate picks: Mason McTavish, Chaz Lucius
11. Chicago Blackhawks - C Mason McTavish 6'2" 207lbs
SL 13GP 9G 2A 11pts
Another player that was hurt by no OHL season, but he did play some games in Switzerland and did well there. He mostly shined at the U-18's. He's been a riser in draft rankings over the last few months. I see him more as a #2 Center, rather than a #1 and this isn't a particularly strong draft class for Centers, but McTavish is still a good player. He's got size and brings grit and still is a solid skater with offensive skills to go with it. He's a do it all type of Center. While Chicago does have Dach to be their future #1 Center, there has been some questions about their depth down the middle after Toews missed the whole season and he's only getting older and Strome had a down year after looking quite good the year before. McTavish will need a year or two before he's NHL ready.
Alternate picks: Chaz Lucius, Cole Sillinger
Comparisons: Bo Horvat, Jordan Staal
12. Calgary Flames - C/RW Chaz Lucius 6'0" 172lbs
USDP 13GP 13G 7A 20pts
Calgary is sort of in a re-tool phase right now. Lucius would be a solid fit in their top 6. Lucius is one of the best goal scorers in the draft and is very skilled. His big weakness is his average skating. He can play center and wing, but probably better suited on the wing in the NHL. He's on the thin side, so he'll need to put on some muscle. He's going to be a few years away from the NHL.
Alternate picks: Cole Sillinger, Fabian Lysell
Comparisons: Brock Boeser, Tyler Toffoli
13. Buffalo Sabres - C/LW Cole Sillinger 6'0" 201lbs
USHL 31GP 24G 22A 46pts
Buffalo is up with their second 1st round pick and this time, they grab 1 of the top forwards available. Another player that can play center and wing, but probably better suited at wing in the NHL. He's got NHL bloodlines as his dad had a long NHL career. So he'll know what it takes to be a pro. Sillinger is solidly built already and he's also one of the more skilled forwards in the draft. He's a good goal scorer and overall offensive threat. Similar to Lucius as well, his skating could be better. He'll be 2-3 away from the NHL.
Alternate picks: Fabian Lysell, Corson Ceulemans
Comparisons: Tyler Toffoli, TJ Oshie
14. Dallas Stars - RW Fabian Lysell 5'10" 172lbs
SHL 26GP 2G 1A 3pts
The Stars issue has kind of been scoring depth and they do need to inject more youth into their lineup as players like Radulov, Pavelski, Benn are getting older. Lysell does have experience against men already, but obviously in more limited ice time. He did shine more in the U-18's. Lysell is a boom or bust type player, but
he offers pretty high upside. He's quite skilled, has a good shot and has good speed. He'll need to develop a few more years in the SHL before he's NHL ready.
Alternate picks: Fyodor Svechkov, Matt Coronato
Comparisons: Kevin Fiala, Jakub Vrana
15. New York Rangers - C Fyodor Svechkov 6'0" 179lbs
MHL 15GP 4G 11A 15pts
The NYR have had lots of wealth with young players lately. They don't have much weaknesses at this point. Zibanejad has emerged as a #1 center. Ryan Strome has been productive as well and there still is Chytill as well for Center options, but this is arguably the BPA and fills somewhat of a need. Svechkov was 1 of the biggest shining stars of the U-18's. His draft stock has gone way up since then. And again, with this not being a strong draft for centers, he is 1 of the few higher end ones. He's one of the best two-way players in the draft and he likely ends up a 3C at worst, but with the U-18's he showed how much skill and offensive upside he has too. He could end up a #2 Center for the NYR. There may be a little risk with Russian players, but he'll need time to develop anyways, so he can spend a few years developing in the KHL and he could be well worth the wait.
Alternate picks: Autu Raty, Francesco Pinelli
Comparisons: Ryan O'Reilly, Logan Couture
16. St. Louis Blues - D Corson Ceulemans 6'2" 201lbs
AJHL 8GP 4G 7A 11pts
There's a big hole on the Blues defense since Pietrangelo left and now Vince Dunn too. While Ceulemans will likely not completely fill that void, he should be able to ease some of the pain. Ceulemans did play in a lower level league, but so did Cale Makar and look how great he is now. He didn't get to play a ton of games this year, but had a solid season and showed a bit more at the U-18's as well. He's got good size and solid offensive upside. Defensively, he needs to work on rounding out that side of his game though. But his potential is a solid top 4 d-man. He'll be able to develop for a few years in the NCAA and could be NHL ready by then.
Alternate picks: Matt Coronato, Autu Raty
Comparisons: Alec Martinez, Cody Ceci
17. Winnipeg Jets - LW/RW Matt Coronato 5'10" 183lbs
USHL 51GP 48G 37A 85pts
While the Jets could probably use a d-man a little more, there's none quite in this range that are worth it. With Laine gone and Wheeler getting older, they could use someone in their prospect pool to come in and fill that void eventually. Coronato was one of the best producing players in this draft class, albeit in a somewhat
lesser league. Similar to players like Sillinger, Lucius, Lysell, he is kind of in that grouping of skilled wingers that have top 6 upside. And alike them, also a good goal scorer. He'll be spending a few years in the NCAA to develop and could be quite a player after that.
Alternate picks: Zachary L'Heureux, Autu Raty
Comparisons: Jake Guentzel, Oliver Bjorkstrand
18. Nashville Predators - C Autu Raty 6'1" 181lbs
Liiga 35GP 3G 3A 6pts
One of the most interesting prospects in this whole draft because a year ago, he was ranked #1, but after a very disappointing season in Liiga, as well as not even making Finland's U-20 team, there's been a lot of uncertainty about Raty now. On one hand, this is a very risky pick because you usually want to see progress with young prospects and Raty hasn't really shown it, but on the other hand, Raty is a good two-way player and has enough skill still, that he could be a 3C at worse. He's also the type of player that Nashville has always liked, players with well rounded games. At this point in the draft, I think he's worth it. At worst, he could still be a 3C, at best maybe he starts to show why he used to be ranked so high. And despite his draft stock dropping, most scouts still see a worthy 1st round pick. He'll need a few years before he's NHL ready.
Alternate picks: Francesco Pinelli, Zachary L'Heureux
Comparisons: Mikael Backlund, Brandon Sutter
19. Edmonton Oilers - G Sebastian Cossa 6'6" 212lbs
WHL 1.57GAA .941sv%
Another wild card in the draft, especially being a goalie. He could definitely end up being picked higher than this. Some scouts have even preferred him over Wallstedt. Oilers have shown some improvement, but they still seem to kind of lack a true identity. They have McDavid and Draisaitl, but a bunch of question marks with the rest of their team. Klefbom's career is in doubt, so that puts a big hole in their defense. But a big issue has been goaltending for years. Mike Smith did have a good season, but he's 39 and he's definitely not a long term solution. Cossa has huge size, so that is quite ideal for the modern NHL. He had an outstanding season in the WHL. Goalies are typically a longer wait, but we did see Spencer Knight step into the NHL sooner than expected.
Alternate picks: Zachary L'Heureux, Francesco Pinelli
Comparisons: Pekka Rinne, Jacob Markstrom
20. Boston Bruins - C/LW Zachary L'Heureux 5'11" 198lbs
QMJHL 33GP 19G 20A 39pts
Boston are a bit of an aging team and could just use the BPA. L'Heureux is arguably that, but he's also a very Bruins type of player. He is so reminiscent of a player they already have in Marchand too. He has a bit of size on Marchand though. He may never be as productive as Marchand, but it did take him a while to get there himself too. While L'Heureux isn't a 6'4" hulking power forward, he definitely doesn't shy from physical contact. He's a very gritty player, but also a big agitator as well. Of course the downside is that he can go overboard and can be more costly to his team sometimes. Scouts seem to be a bit divisive on him, but I think he's got top 6 upside and would be a very good player especially when it comes to the playoffs. He'll be a few years away from the NHL.
Alternate picks: Francesco Pinelli, Logan Stankoven
Comparisons: Matthew Tkachuk, Brad Marchand
21. Minnesota Wild - C Francesco Pinelli 6'1" 185lbs
AlpsHL 13GP 5G 6A 11pts
After getting Rossi in the 2020 Draft, the Wild grab another Center to build more down the middle. Pinelli is a solid two-way player with good speed. He projects as a middle six center. I think he fits their team well. His stock was hurt a little due to needing to play in a lower level league because of no OHL season. He had a solid performance at the U-18's. He'll be a few years away from the NHL.
Alternate picks: Logan Stankoven, Xavier Bourgault
Comparisons: Vincent Trocheck, JG Pageau
22. Detroit Red Wings - C/RW Logan Stankoven 5'8" 170lbs
WHL 6GP 7G 3A 10pts
Due to the weird year, he only got to play a limited number of games in the WHL, but he produced well. He was solid at the U-18's as well. While he lacks in stature, he does make up for it with a relentless motor. He's also a pretty good offensive player with a good shot. He should be able to turn into an important role player in any teams top 9 and still has good upside. He'll be a few years away from the NHL.
Alternate picks: Xavier Bourgault, Nikita Chibrikov
Comparisons: Paul Byron, Yanni Gourde
23. Florida Panthers - D Daniil Chayka 6'3" 185lbs
KHL 11GP 1G 1A 2pts
With the recent buyout of Yandle, the Panthers could use some help on the defensive side for the future and in their prospect pool. Chayka is more of a defensive d-man, but has some offense to his game too. He'll need to fill out, but he's got a big frame. He should turn into a big d-man that can play physical and help shutdown
other teams top lines. He was set for another OHL season, but due to no season, he went to the KHL to play against men. He obviously got less games and less ice time due to that, but can also be beneficial in some ways too. He's got experience against men now. He'll be a few years away from the NHL.
Alternate picks: Nikita Chibrikov, Brennan Othmann
Comparisons: Niklas Hjalmarsson, Esa Lindell
24. Columbus Blue Jackets - C/W Xavier Bourgault 6'0" 172lbs
QMJHL 29GP 20G 20A 40pts
Columbus has three 1sts, so they'll look to take a forward this time. Bourgault can play center or wing, could go either way in the NHL. He produced fairly well in the QMJHL this year. He's quite a skilled player. Pretty good goal scorer and playmaker. Has 2nd line upside. We'll need to continue working on the defensive side of things and add more muscle to his body. He'll be a few years away from the NHL.
Alternate picks: Nikita Chibrikov, Brennan Othmann
Comparisons: Alex Killorn, Tomas Tatar
25. Minnesota Wild - LW/RW Nikita Chibrikov 5'10" 172lbs
KHL 16GP 1G 1A 2pts
The Wild use their second 1st rounder to grab a winger this time. They've had good success with Kaprizov, so they bring in another skilled Russian winger. Chibrikov is a smaller player, but he's quite skilled. He's a good goal scorer and playmaker. He played in a few Russian leagues this year, but he really shined at the U-18's.
He's more of a boom or bust pick, but definitely has the upside. Wild were patient with Karpizov, so no rush for Chibrikov either as they can wait a few years.
Alternate picks: Brennan Othmann, Zachary Bolduc
Comparisons: Anthony Duclair, Oliver Bjorkstrand
26. Carolina Hurricanes - LW Brennan Othmann 6'0" 174lbs
SL 34GP 7G 9A 16pts
Carolina will look to get more forward depth. Othmann has top 6 upside and has some grit to his game as well. He'll need to gain strength to be further effective at the NHL level though. He had to play in Switzerland this season due to no OHL season, but he was solid there and also showed more at the U-18's as well. He'll be a few years away from the NHL.
Alternate picks: Sasha Pastujov, Isak Rosen
Comparisons: Patric Hornqvist, Gabriel Landeskog
27. Colorado Avalanche - C/LW Zachary Bolduc 6'1" 174lbs
QMJHL 27GP 10G 19A 29pts
Bolduc is a good skater and quite skilled. He can play center and wing, so he's a versatile forward. He had some injuries this year, so it held him back some. With Colorado losing Donskoi to the expansion draft, this will help fill the void in the future. He's got top 6 upside. He'll need to further develop his defensive game
to become an even more effective two-way threat. He's a few years away from being NHL ready.
Alternate picks: Sasha Pastujov, Isak Rosen
Comparisons: David Krejci, Josh Bailey
28. New Jersey Devils - LW Sasha Pastujov 6'0" 183lbs
USHL 18GP 10G 16A 26pts
NJ is back with their second 1st round pick and this time they grab a forward and they get a LW with top 6 upside to hopefully play with their star centers one day. Pastujov was 1 of the more productive players this season in the USHL and USDP. He's one of the more skilled players in the draft as well as one of the better goal scorers. Defensively, he needs to improve, but he's worth picking at this point due to his upside. He can spend a few years in the NCAA and he could be NHL ready after that.
Alternate picks: Isak Rosen, Simon Robertson
Comparisons: Dominik Kubalik, Victor Olofsson
29. Vegas Golden Knights - LW/RW Isak Rosen 5'11" 161lbs
SHL 22GP 0G 1A 1pt
What he lacks in size, he makes up for it in skill. He's one of the flashiest players in the draft. He's also spent time playing against men, so he is somewhat accustomed to playing against bigger, stronger players already. He did see more limited minutes, but he did have a bigger role in the U-18's and he scored often. Putting on more weight and getting stronger will obviously be needed. He'll need to spend a few years in the SHL before he's ready for the NHL.
Alternate picks: Simon Robertson, Scott Morrow
Comparisons: Kailer Yamamoto, Nikita Gusev
30. Montreal Canadiens - D Stanislav Svozil 6'0" 172lbs
Czech 30GP 1G 2A 3pts
With Weber's future in doubt and just lack of defensive depth, they look to improve that area. Svozil is more of a classic shut-down d-man. While he isn't a big d-man, he's a good skater, that defends very well using an active stick and good positioning. Offensively, he's more limited, but he has top 4 upside still. He's been playing in the top Czech league, so he's adept to playing against men already. It'll be a few years before he's NHL ready.
Alternate picks: Scott Morrow, Sean Behrens
Comparisons: Jonas Brodin, Niklas Hjalmarsson
31. Columbus Blue Jacekts - D Scott Morrow 6'2" 192lbs
USHS-Prep 30GP 8G 40A 48pts
With their third 1st round pick, Columbus go back to defense and grab a RHD this time and so Morrow and Hughes combined, should be able to help fill that future void of Seth Jones. Morrow has got solid size, but he moves very well as well. While he didn't play at a high level, he looked very good in prep school. He's more offense than defense, but he should be able to round out his game more when he spends a few years in the NCAA.
Alternate picks: Sean Behrens, Mackie Samoskevich
Comparisons: Justin Schultz, Colin Miller
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