1 (14) Connor Zary - CAN - C - Kamloops (WHL)
-With Quinn, Jarvis and Askarov gone I attempted to trade down with no takers. I am still happy with Zary here as bpa, probably like him more than most. I don't not see his skating as particularly poor and think he could be a more skilled Bo Horvat.
3 (76) Carter Savoie - CAN - LW - Sherwood Park (AJHL)
-Dynamic offense, one of the best shots in the draft. Might be my favourite pick based on pure value, think he also fits a need on the left side as a 1 shot scorer. Could be a steal with work on conditioning and consistency.
5 (138) Oskar Magnusson - SWE - LW/C - Malmo (SHL)
-Again simply tried to take the most skilled player available. Great junior numbers in Sweden, some utility on the PK as well, more well rounded than most small, skilled forwards at this age.
6 (169) Luke Prokop - CAN - RD - Calgary (WHL)
-Continuing a theme of local/Western Cdn boys that was by no means intentional, I was very happy to get Prokop here. I see him as similar to Mike Kesselring (Oilers 6th Rd pick in 2018) due to size R shot, excellent mobility and untapped offensive potential while being known for his defensive side. Might be great insurance if both Phil Kemp and Kesselring go the Marino route, tho that is hopefully very unlikely.
7 (200) Ivan Didkovsky - RUS - C/W - Dynamo Krasnogorsk (VHL)
-Again quite surprised he was on the board here. Very dynamic offensively while the work ethic and tenacity on both sides of the puck are discussed often in his scouting reports. Versatile, able to play all 3 fwd positions with an apparent edge to his game despite his relatively small stature.
Overall was pleased with the amount of skill and versatility I ended up with, with the exception of the more 1 dimensional Savoie (but what a dimension it is!) and would be pretty excited with a similar draft for my Oilers. Thanks again all, cheers!