2021 NHL Entry Draft

[smithers joe]

17 minutes ago, HKSR said:

McTavish is the counterpunch to every Tkachuk that steps onto the ice.

 

On a side note, I would like to see the Canucks trade up from their 2nd round pick to snag Morrow if at all possible.

i was hoping for bar with that pick.

[Canuck Surfer]

27 minutes ago, DeNiro said:

Cant ignore skating in today’s NHL. As we’ve seen it’s not always something you can just teach players to improve. It takes a work ethic like Bo’s to improve it in a couple offseasons.

Good post.

 

Its also more common that you improve your endurance. Can skate longer, harder at the end of shifts. Improve your strength and flexibility, which adds power to your stride. Even diet; carrying the correct weight, having more energy to expend.  All could offer a simple appearance of an improved stride! My point is as guys get in to professional rhythms they will skate better.  Look at Gadjovich? Its training habits...

 

And it is somewhat predictable? Horvat for example at draft age won endurance skating events at the combine.  Work ethic is measurable. It also reflected in his compete level, and attending to details like face off's & the back check.  Guys who compete harder, IMO, are more likely to train harder! 

[Guest]

4 hours ago, Canuckster86 said:

if true then trade him for a good return, why have 6m on your bottom pair. Oh ya, that is how you get into cap trouble...

He was 2nd on the Canucks in ice time, at 22:05 per game.  You can call him bottom pair all you want but he was our best defenseman this year.  I have time to listen to an argument for Nate Schmidt, but for me he was our best d-man this year.  

 

Why would you trade away a defenseman when we're paper thin on the back end, being held together by a 35 year old Alex Edler? 

[Beary Sweet]

I read The Hockey News latest magazine. They had McTavish going 9th. I’d be really thrilled with that selection. They also posted his statistics with the teams he spent developing and he has a real knack for scoring goals. 30+ goals everywhere he’s gone. If he’s available at our pick, we gotta snatch him up. A potential Horvat replacement down the road

[nergish]

1 hour ago, Canuck Surfer said:

Good post.

 

Its also more common that you improve your endurance. Can skate longer, harder at the end of shifts. Improve your strength and flexibility, which adds power to your stride. Even diet; carrying the correct weight, having more energy to expend.  All could offer a simple appearance of an improved stride! My point is as guys get in to professional rhythms they will skate better.  Look at Gadjovich? Its training habits...

 

And it is somewhat predictable? Horvat for example at draft age won endurance skating events at the combine.  Work ethic is measurable. It also reflected in his compete level, and attending to details like face off's & the back check.  Guys who compete harder, IMO, are more likely to train harder! 

I've seen that phrase thrown around too much for my liking - Clarke's "knock-kneed skating"... and to be honest I'm not really sure that's even a thing. 

His speed is one of his most appealing elements as a prospect, he just isn't as graceful as a Hughes boy. He moves around the ice perfectly well, and is every bit a new-age defender. When I'm judging a player's skating, it's really more about how much ice they cover... not the way they position their knees.

 

I just don't buy that Clarke (a 6'2 190lbs, high IQ defender) is a "2nd pairing, PP specialist". His game seems very well-rounded to me, way more so than L. Hughes for example.

In fact, from what I've seen I'd say he's easily the second best Dman in this draft class, and probably 3rd-4th overall in my books.

[J.I.A.H.N]

17 minutes ago, nergish said:

I've seen that phrase thrown around too much for my liking - Clarke's "knock-kneed skating"... and to be honest I'm not really sure that's even a thing. 

His speed is one of his most appealing elements as a prospect, he just isn't as graceful as a Hughes boy. He moves around the ice perfectly well, and is every bit a new-age defender. When I'm judging a player's skating, it's really more about how much ice they cover... not the way they position their knees.

 

I just don't buy that Clarke (a 6'2 190lbs, high IQ defender) is a "2nd pairing, PP specialist". His game seems very well-rounded to me, way more so than L. Hughes for example.

In fact, from what I've seen I'd say he's easily the second best Dman in this draft class, and probably 3rd-4th overall in my books.

I am reminded of Evan Bouchard who had everything but skating (He was drafted 10th OA in 2018)

Looks to be doing just fine as a rookie last year

[J.I.A.H.N]

In a perfect world, we get Clarke at #9 OA, but as I said earlier, he will not be there (IMO)

 

So, with that being said, and the RHD position being so thin of prospects, I would like to see us move up

 

I would target either Anahiem's #3 pick or Columbus's #4 pick, and yes, I would pay the ransom

 

Anahiem's #3     for     Vancouver's #9 + 2022-2nd + Juolevi

 

Columbus's #5      for     Vancouver's #9 + 2022-2nd + DiPietro 

 

IMO, it is Columbus that wants Clarke, and to be truthful, this is probably the last time we get close enough to being able to draft a top RHD.

 

I would also target one of Morrow, Schmidt, Mailloux, Heimosalmi or Bar............I would be happy with any of these 5 as our 2nd round pick 

 

But Clarke is the prize!  

Edited June 16, 2021 by janisahockeynut

[Warhippy]

2 hours ago, Bertuzzipunch said:

Corey Pronman’s final rankings. He writes fir the athletic so u need a subscription. His opinion on brandt dont mean much to me tbh

 

https://theathletic.com/2620093/2021/06/15/nhl-draft-prospects-ranking-2021-corey-pronmans-final-top-151/

 

This is where a good man would copy and paste everything to us from 1-15 and earn those accolades!

[Warhippy]

Essentially what we have is a list of prospects from #3 through 15 that will end up in a Canucks uniform.

 

Everyone has this preconceived list of prospects from 1-11 that might end up but I think people are seriously underestimating this draft and who teams might just take.  I expect there's at least 2 players listed 10-20 that will get drafted in the top 10.

 

My opinion only but...

[Bertuzzipunch]

Just now, Warhippy said:

This is where a good man would copy and paste everything to us from 1-15 and earn those accolades!

If i had a subscription I definitely wouldve done that for you guys. 
 

i got that pic from twitter

[J.I.A.H.N]

1		-	Owen Power	TIER 1: Projected NHL All-Star
2		-	Dylan Guenther	TIER 2: Projected bubble all-star/top of lineup player
3		-	William Eklund	TIER 3: Projected top of the lineup player
4		-	Luke Hughes
5		-	Matthew Beniers
6		-	Kent Johnson
7		-	Chaz Lucius	TIER: 4: Projected bubble top/middle of lineup or quality starting goaltender
8		-	Brandt Clarke
9		-	Mason McTavish
10		-	Sebastian Cossa
11		-		Draft Pick Forfeited
12		-	Jesper Wallstedt
13		-	Simon Edvinsson	TIER 5: Projected middle of lineup player
14		-	Corson Ceulemans
15		-	Nikita Chibrikov

[J.I.A.H.N]

Would it look like this?

 

PS.......I do not have a subscription........but I heard from a guy who knew a guy.

 

 

 

Edited June 16, 2021 by janisahockeynut

[Warhippy]

9 minutes ago, Bertuzzipunch said:

If i had a subscription I definitely wouldve done that for you guys. 
 

i got that pic from twitter

What we need...is a good man now.  Someone to go behind the scenes

[Junkyard Dog]

20 minutes ago, Warhippy said:

This is where a good man would copy and paste everything to us from 1-15 and earn those accolades!

Just sub and cancel right away. You keep the free week trial. 

[A.A.A]

Pronmans top 15 rankings:

 

TIER 1: Projected NHL All-Star

 

Owen Power, LHD, Michigan-Big Ten Nov. 22, 2002 | 6-foot-6 | 213 pounds 

Skating: Average

Puck Skills: Below-average

Hockey Sense: Above-average

Compete: Average 

Power had a great freshman season as one of the best defensemen in his conference while also one of its youngest, and played a key role for Canada in its gold medal run at the world championships. Power’s offensive toolkit won’t jump out immediately to you, but a 6-foot-6 defenseman who can skate at the NHL level and move the puck well is a major asset. His skating isn’t explosive, but his stride and edgework are excellent, and he can evade pressure very well. Power’s offense comes from a great first pass and an ability to find seams in the offensive zone well. I question if he will be a go-to power play type, but I can for sure see him on PP2 and can be PP1 in a pinch. Defensively he’s not that physical, but he closes on checks well with his range and reach, and breaks up a lot of plays. In a sentence, Power projects as a star all-situations NHL defenseman who won’t land on highlight reels but will play tough minutes and drive play. 

 

TIER 2: Projected bubble all-star/top of lineup player

 

Dylan Guenther, RW, Edmonton-WHL April 10, 2003 | 6-foot-2 | 175 pounds 

Skating: Average

Puck Skills: Average

Hockey Sense: Average

Compete: Above-average

Shot: Above-average 

Guenther had a great limited WHL season, scoring two points per game (24 points in 12 games) for the Oil Kings following his great underage season, although his U18 worlds were good but not as inspiring. Guenther is a forward with a lot of NHL attributes. He has great skill, and can make skilled plays through defenders and to teammates at an NHL pace. He can make some plays through seams while also having the shot to score from a distance. He has a lot of talent, but also works off the puck, forcing turnovers and playing in traffic, even if he’s not overly physical. In a sentence, Guenther may not be a true game breaker in the NHL, but he projects as a top-line forward who will endear himself to fans and coaches. 

 

TIER 3: Projected top of the lineup player

 

William Eklund, LW, Djurgarden-SHL Oct. 12, 2002 | 5-foot-10 | 176 pounds 

Skating: High-end

Puck Skills: Average

Hockey Sense: Above-average

Compete: Above-average 

Eklund was an important player on an SHL team as an 18-year-old — a rare feat for a first-year draft-eligible player — and played well for Sweden’s national team. He has good, not great, straightaway speed to go along with fantastic edgework. He shows tremendous elusiveness to evade pressure and create space with his skating. Eklund skates fast, but it’s his skating plus his compete that earned the trust of big minutes as he showed he could be responsible off the puck. He combines that with a high skill level, a very imaginative hockey IQ offensively and the ability to execute difficult plays at speed. His ability to play in the high-traffic areas and win battles, but also play on the perimeter and be a primary set-up guy, will make him a versatile NHL player. In a sentence, Eklund projects as an undersized first-line NHL winger with dynamic attributes. 

 

Luke Hughes, LHD, U.S. NTDP-USHL Sept. 9, 2003 | 6-foot-2 | 184 pounds 

Skating: High-end

Puck Skills: Average

Hockey Sense: Average

Compete: Average 

Hughes had a strong season, as a leading player for the U.S. NTDP, but a late-season injury kept him from playing at the U18 worlds. Hughes is a 6-foot-2 elite-skating defenseman with offensive ability, which is a highly appealing toolkit for an NHL projection. Like his brothers Jack and Quinn, Luke’s edgework is fantastic, showing great ability to elude checks. His skating and skill combination allow him to generate a lot of controlled exits and entries. His playmaking isn’t at the same level as his brothers, but he has enough skill and vision to be on an NHL power play and be a driver at the top level. The size and skating combination should allow him to make stops as a pro, but currently his D-zone coverage isn’t completely refined, as he needs to work on his gaps. He can be a bit risky and turnover prone with the puck, and managing that is a main area of concern with scouts. In a sentence, Hughes projects as a top-pair defenseman who can be on a power play and be elite in transition, but will have issues matching up versus top players. 

 

Matthew Beniers, C, Michigan-Big Ten Nov. 5, 2002 | 6-foot-2 | 175 pounds 

Skating: Average

Puck Skills: Below-average

Hockey Sense: Average

Compete: High-end 

Beniers is the top center prospect in this draft. He has a quality NHL-caliber skill set but not a lot jumps off the page. He is a top prospect because he is an elite competitor and makes the most of his toolkit every game. I’ve seen him play nearly a hundred games over the last three years between the U.S. NTDP, college and international competitions, and I can count on one hand the times he’s never made an impact on a game. His work ethic shows through how hard he forechecks and backchecks, how every play is made with speed, how he wins a ton of battles, and how fearless he is getting to the high-traffic areas. Beniers wills his way to puck possession and scoring chances, while also able to set up a lot of plays. In a sentence, Beniers projects as a top-two line center, a No. 2 on a Stanley Cup contender or a low-end No. 1, who can score at a reasonable rate for those roles and provide high-end value off the puck. 

 

Kent Johnson, C, Michigan-Big Ten Oct. 18, 2002 | 6-foot-1 | 167 pounds 

Skating: Below-average

Puck Skills: Elite Hockey

Sense: Average

Compete: Average 

Johnson is the player you want to know about in this year’s draft in terms of dynamic skill and playmaking ability. A lot of his puck touches look unique from other players on the ice, with the ability to make between-the-legs and behind-the-back plays look routine. He’s a very creative playmaker who can make difficult plays in small areas consistently but can overcomplicate at times. Johnson has a decent wrist shot, which he showed more in junior than college. His game can lack pace and he’s not that hard to play against, but I wouldn’t call him soft either. In a sentence, Johnson projects as a top-line NHL forward, likely on the wing, who has the most star potential in the draft but also has the most significant physical drawbacks of the top prospects. 

 

TIER: 4: Projected bubble top/middle of lineup or quality starting goaltender

 

Chaz Lucius, C, U.S. NTDP-USHL May 2, 2003 | 6-foot-1 | 185 pounds 

Skating: Below-average

Puck Skills: Above-average

Hockey Sense: Average

Compete: Above-average 

Lucius missed most of the season with various injuries but when healthy he showed what he did in his underage season, in that he could score a lot of goals and drive a team’s offense. Lucius is one of the most purely skilled players in the draft, with elite one-on-one skills and the ability to make defenders miss. He is known for his goal scoring, but he has good vision and can find seams and create in tight areas. His scoring is less due to an elite shot and where he scores. If you saw a heat map for his shots, it’s a big blob in front of the crease. Lucius lacks physicality and defensive value off the puck but he generates a lot of offense by going to the net. His skating is a concern and he will likely not be able to separate at the NHL level. In a sentence, Lucius projects as a strong top-six NHL forward who can be on a top power-play unit in a bumper/net position. 

 

Brandt Clarke, RHD, Barrie-OHL Feb. 9, 2003 | 6-foot-2 | 185 pounds 

Skating: Below-average

Puck Skills: Above-average

Hockey Sense: Average

Compete: Average 

Clarke went to Slovakia because there was no OHL season and was quite good. He is a dynamic player with the puck because of his puck skills and playmaking ability. He has the poise and vision to make tough plays from both ends of the rink. He can beat opponents with his skill consistently and looks unique with the puck on his stick, with true first power-play unit potential in the NHL. The concern on Clarke is his skating as he’s a somewhat knock-kneed skater without great quickness. He defends well in junior due to his sense and having decent reach, but the pace will be a concern in that regard as he advances levels. In a sentence, Clarke projects as a second or third defenseman who can be on a top NHL power-play unit but may not be able to face top opponents defensively. 

 

Mason McTavish, C, Peterborough-OHL Jan. 30, 2003 | 6-foot-1 | 207 pounds 

Skating: Below-average

Puck Skills: Average

Hockey Sense: Average

Compete: Above-average

Shot: Above-average 

McTavish was good in Switzerland’s second-tier pro league, with the OHL season canceled, and great at the U18 worlds for Canada. McTavish has always shown he can score — and in numbers. He can attack defenses in numerous ways in the offensive zone with his NHL-caliber skill, vision and shot. He is a creative player who tries to make things happen. He has the shot to score from range versus pros and is very good at creating around the net. He works hard enough to win a lot of puck battles. The main flaw in McTavish’s skill set is his skating, as he will be OK in the NHL in that regard but will struggle to create separation. In a sentence, McTavish projects as a strong top-six forward in the NHL, a second-line center or a low-end first-line wing. 

 

Sebastian Cossa, G, Edmonton-WHL Nov. 21, 2002 | 6-foot-6 | 210 pounds 

Athleticism: Average

Hockey Sense: Average 

Cossa has been as good as you could have asked him to be in the WHL, dominating the league for the last two seasons. His athletic toolkit is very intriguing as a 6-foot-6 goalie who can move very well for that size. He covers a lot of net with his length. He has some quick twitch in his frame in how he moves around the net, and gets in and out of his butterfly. Cossa’s reads are typically great. He loses track of some pucks and can be a bit busy in the net but usually anticipates the play very well. I love his selective aggressiveness with his positioning, and how he takes away angles with his size as well as how well he uses his stick to break up a lot of plays. In a sentence, Cossa projects as a quality NHL starting goaltender with the potential to become an upper-echelon goalie. 

 

Jesper Wallstedt, G, Lulea-SHL Nov. 14, 2002 | 6-foot-3 | 214 pounds 

Athleticism: Below-average

Hockey Sense: Above-average 

Wallstedt started off very well, as a rare first-year draft-eligible to not only play but also excel in the SHL. He fell off in the second half, but his body of work between junior, pro and international is quite strong. Wallstedt’s athletic toolkit doesn’t jump out at you immediately. He’s about 6-foot-3 and moves well but not at an elite level. What makes him such a good goaltender is his tremendous sense and puck-tracking ability. He makes the right read at a remarkably high frequency, with little unnecessary movement in net. Wallstedt can make a tough save when he needs to and has some lateral quickness, but it often seems like he doesn’t have to adjust his technique much on a given save, especially when the puck is in the high-percentage areas. In a sentence, Wallstedt projects as a quality NHL starting goaltender. 

 

TIER 5: Projected middle of lineup player

 

Simon Edvinsson, LHD, Frolunda-SHL Feb. 5, 2003 | 6-foot-4 | 198 pounds 

Skating: Average

Puck Skills: Average

Hockey Sense: Average

Compete: Average 

Edvinsson was impressive in the junior ranks in Sweden. He was good, but not amazing at varying pro levels and was an anchor for Sweden’s U18 team internationally. He stands out instantly as a 6-foot-4 defenseman with legit offensive skill. It’s rare to see a player his size lead a rush or make a play off the blue line and dangle through opponents consistently like he does. Edvinsson is also quite a good skater for his size. His straightaway speed is just OK, but he’s got great edgework, showing the first step and quick turns to elude pressure and create clean exits and entries. Defensively his size and skating allow him to close gaps and make a lot of stops and he’s not afraid to be physical. He’s not a dynamic playmaker, but Edvinsson can make the heads-up first pass and shows some power-play poise. In a sentence, Edvinsson projects as a quality top-four defenseman and on a power-play unit with the potential to play higher in an NHL lineup. 

 

Corson Ceulemans, RHD, Brooks-AJHL May 5, 2003 | 6-foot-2 | 198 pounds 

Skating: Average

Puck Skills: Average

Hockey Sense: Average

Compete: Above-average 

Ceulemans’ season was cut short due to the AJHL’s pause. He was up and down during that season, but his U18 worlds was promising and his underage profile is encouraging. Ceulemans is a complete defenseman as a 6-foot-2, right-shot blueliner who is mobile, hard to play against and has offensive ability. At the AJHL level, he showed great one-on-one skill and the ability to move the puck. He kills a lot of rushes with his skating and physicality and picks off a lot of passes. At the higher levels of play I’ve watched him over the years I’ve questioned if the offense will translate at a top level, particularly the playmaking. But I see enough good things in his puck moving to think he can be a good NHL player. In a sentence, Ceulemans projects as a quality top-four NHL defenseman who could possibly be on a second power-play unit with the potential to play higher in a lineup. 

 

Nikita Chibrikov, RW, SKA-VHL Feb. 16, 2003 | 5-foot-10 | 170 pounds 

Skating: Average

Puck Skills: Average

Hockey Sense: Above-average

Compete: Above-average 

Chibrikov impressed early at the junior level this season, earning a quick promotion to playing versus men where he held his own at the VHL and KHL levels and making an appearance with Russia’s senior team. He was also a top scorer at the U18 worlds with 13 points in seven games. He’s undersized and not an amazing skater for his size, but he’s done well versus pros because of his tremendous playmaking ability and his ability to win battles despite his size. He can make slick one-on-one plays, creative plays under pressure and find seams consistently. He’s physical and responsible defensively. He could be a more explosive skater ideally, but the other elements of his game pop. In a sentence, Chibrikov projects as a top-six forward who will be on an NHL power play. 

 

Matthew Coronato, RW, Chicago-USHL Nov. 14, 2002 | 5-foot-10 | 183 pounds 

Skating: Above-average

Puck Skills: Average

Hockey Sense: Average

Compete: Above-average

Shot: Above-average 

Coronato was one of the best players in the USHL and among the leaders in most offensive categories. Coronato is an undersized forward with a lot of skill who can make plays with pace. He’s a strong skater, not elite for a small guy, but good enough to be an NHL player. He’s able to create controlled entries with his speed and skill, and make tough plays to his teammates on the move. Coronato is also able to play the half-wall on the power play and find seams as well as finish from distance. He killed penalties for Chicago and works hard enough to advance levels and win battles despite his size. In a sentence, Coronato projects as a versatile second-line NHL winger.

Edited June 16, 2021 by Amaneey

[higgyfan]

1 hour ago, nergish said:

I've seen that phrase thrown around too much for my liking - Clarke's "knock-kneed skating"... and to be honest I'm not really sure that's even a thing. 

His speed is one of his most appealing elements as a prospect, he just isn't as graceful as a Hughes boy. He moves around the ice perfectly well, and is every bit a new-age defender. When I'm judging a player's skating, it's really more about how much ice they cover... not the way they position their knees.

 

I just don't buy that Clarke (a 6'2 190lbs, high IQ defender) is a "2nd pairing, PP specialist". His game seems very well-rounded to me, way more so than L. Hughes for example.

In fact, from what I've seen I'd say he's easily the second best Dman in this draft class, and probably 3rd-4th overall in my books.

Skating

Clarke’s game is based on his outstanding skating ability. This allows him to get forward in the offensive zone as well as join the rush, and still get back defensively. He has an outstanding first step and great acceleration. His ability to change speeds allows him to avoid forecheckers and get past defenders. His top-end speed is also very good. Clarke’s edgework and agility are elite. He can turn on a dime, and can also walk the line, opening up passing and shooting lanes in the offensive zone. Clarke could stand to get a bit stronger in his core though. This will help improve his balance and strength on his skates. It will help him to win battles in the defensive zone and clear the front of the net.

 

https://lastwordonsports.com/hockey/2021/04/16/brandt-clarke-scouting-report/

[R3aL]

If Clarke goes at 8 I’ll be choked but if we get McTavish at 9 I’ll be good just sad we were so close to getting Clarke lol

 

i don’t think that’s how the draft goes but very possible

 

interesting to see edvinsson that low
 

no Sillinger or Lysell and very high on luscius

[Warhippy]

1 hour ago, Warhippy said:

What we need...is a good man now.  Someone to go behind the scenes

 

1 hour ago, Amaneey said:

Pronmans top 15 rankings:

 

TIER 1: Projected NHL All-Star

 

Owen Power, LHD, Michigan-Big Ten Nov. 22, 2002 | 6-foot-6 | 213 pounds 

Skating: Average

Puck Skills: Below-average

Hockey Sense: Above-average

Compete: Average 

Power had a great freshman season as one of the best defensemen in his conference while also one of its youngest, and played a key role for Canada in its gold medal run at the world championships. Power’s offensive toolkit won’t jump out immediately to you, but a 6-foot-6 defenseman who can skate at the NHL level and move the puck well is a major asset. His skating isn’t explosive, but his stride and edgework are excellent, and he can evade pressure very well. Power’s offense comes from a great first pass and an ability to find seams in the offensive zone well. I question if he will be a go-to power play type, but I can for sure see him on PP2 and can be PP1 in a pinch. Defensively he’s not that physical, but he closes on checks well with his range and reach, and breaks up a lot of plays. In a sentence, Power projects as a star all-situations NHL defenseman who won’t land on highlight reels but will play tough minutes and drive play. 

 

TIER 2: Projected bubble all-star/top of lineup player

 

Dylan Guenther, RW, Edmonton-WHL April 10, 2003 | 6-foot-2 | 175 pounds 

Skating: Average

Puck Skills: Average

Hockey Sense: Average

Compete: Above-average

Shot: Above-average 

Guenther had a great limited WHL season, scoring two points per game (24 points in 12 games) for the Oil Kings following his great underage season, although his U18 worlds were good but not as inspiring. Guenther is a forward with a lot of NHL attributes. He has great skill, and can make skilled plays through defenders and to teammates at an NHL pace. He can make some plays through seams while also having the shot to score from a distance. He has a lot of talent, but also works off the puck, forcing turnovers and playing in traffic, even if he’s not overly physical. In a sentence, Guenther may not be a true game breaker in the NHL, but he projects as a top-line forward who will endear himself to fans and coaches. 

 

TIER 3: Projected top of the lineup player

 

William Eklund, LW, Djurgarden-SHL Oct. 12, 2002 | 5-foot-10 | 176 pounds 

Skating: High-end

Puck Skills: Average

Hockey Sense: Above-average

Compete: Above-average 

Eklund was an important player on an SHL team as an 18-year-old — a rare feat for a first-year draft-eligible player — and played well for Sweden’s national team. He has good, not great, straightaway speed to go along with fantastic edgework. He shows tremendous elusiveness to evade pressure and create space with his skating. Eklund skates fast, but it’s his skating plus his compete that earned the trust of big minutes as he showed he could be responsible off the puck. He combines that with a high skill level, a very imaginative hockey IQ offensively and the ability to execute difficult plays at speed. His ability to play in the high-traffic areas and win battles, but also play on the perimeter and be a primary set-up guy, will make him a versatile NHL player. In a sentence, Eklund projects as an undersized first-line NHL winger with dynamic attributes. 

 

Luke Hughes, LHD, U.S. NTDP-USHL Sept. 9, 2003 | 6-foot-2 | 184 pounds 

Skating: High-end

Puck Skills: Average

Hockey Sense: Average

Compete: Average 

Hughes had a strong season, as a leading player for the U.S. NTDP, but a late-season injury kept him from playing at the U18 worlds. Hughes is a 6-foot-2 elite-skating defenseman with offensive ability, which is a highly appealing toolkit for an NHL projection. Like his brothers Jack and Quinn, Luke’s edgework is fantastic, showing great ability to elude checks. His skating and skill combination allow him to generate a lot of controlled exits and entries. His playmaking isn’t at the same level as his brothers, but he has enough skill and vision to be on an NHL power play and be a driver at the top level. The size and skating combination should allow him to make stops as a pro, but currently his D-zone coverage isn’t completely refined, as he needs to work on his gaps. He can be a bit risky and turnover prone with the puck, and managing that is a main area of concern with scouts. In a sentence, Hughes projects as a top-pair defenseman who can be on a power play and be elite in transition, but will have issues matching up versus top players. 

 

Matthew Beniers, C, Michigan-Big Ten Nov. 5, 2002 | 6-foot-2 | 175 pounds 

Skating: Average

Puck Skills: Below-average

Hockey Sense: Average

Compete: High-end 

Beniers is the top center prospect in this draft. He has a quality NHL-caliber skill set but not a lot jumps off the page. He is a top prospect because he is an elite competitor and makes the most of his toolkit every game. I’ve seen him play nearly a hundred games over the last three years between the U.S. NTDP, college and international competitions, and I can count on one hand the times he’s never made an impact on a game. His work ethic shows through how hard he forechecks and backchecks, how every play is made with speed, how he wins a ton of battles, and how fearless he is getting to the high-traffic areas. Beniers wills his way to puck possession and scoring chances, while also able to set up a lot of plays. In a sentence, Beniers projects as a top-two line center, a No. 2 on a Stanley Cup contender or a low-end No. 1, who can score at a reasonable rate for those roles and provide high-end value off the puck. 

 

Kent Johnson, C, Michigan-Big Ten Oct. 18, 2002 | 6-foot-1 | 167 pounds 

Skating: Below-average

Puck Skills: Elite Hockey

Sense: Average

Compete: Average 

Johnson is the player you want to know about in this year’s draft in terms of dynamic skill and playmaking ability. A lot of his puck touches look unique from other players on the ice, with the ability to make between-the-legs and behind-the-back plays look routine. He’s a very creative playmaker who can make difficult plays in small areas consistently but can overcomplicate at times. Johnson has a decent wrist shot, which he showed more in junior than college. His game can lack pace and he’s not that hard to play against, but I wouldn’t call him soft either. In a sentence, Johnson projects as a top-line NHL forward, likely on the wing, who has the most star potential in the draft but also has the most significant physical drawbacks of the top prospects. 

 

TIER: 4: Projected bubble top/middle of lineup or quality starting goaltender

 

Chaz Lucius, C, U.S. NTDP-USHL May 2, 2003 | 6-foot-1 | 185 pounds 

Skating: Below-average

Puck Skills: Above-average

Hockey Sense: Average

Compete: Above-average 

Lucius missed most of the season with various injuries but when healthy he showed what he did in his underage season, in that he could score a lot of goals and drive a team’s offense. Lucius is one of the most purely skilled players in the draft, with elite one-on-one skills and the ability to make defenders miss. He is known for his goal scoring, but he has good vision and can find seams and create in tight areas. His scoring is less due to an elite shot and where he scores. If you saw a heat map for his shots, it’s a big blob in front of the crease. Lucius lacks physicality and defensive value off the puck but he generates a lot of offense by going to the net. His skating is a concern and he will likely not be able to separate at the NHL level. In a sentence, Lucius projects as a strong top-six NHL forward who can be on a top power-play unit in a bumper/net position. 

 

Brandt Clarke, RHD, Barrie-OHL Feb. 9, 2003 | 6-foot-2 | 185 pounds 

Skating: Below-average

Puck Skills: Above-average

Hockey Sense: Average

Compete: Average 

Clarke went to Slovakia because there was no OHL season and was quite good. He is a dynamic player with the puck because of his puck skills and playmaking ability. He has the poise and vision to make tough plays from both ends of the rink. He can beat opponents with his skill consistently and looks unique with the puck on his stick, with true first power-play unit potential in the NHL. The concern on Clarke is his skating as he’s a somewhat knock-kneed skater without great quickness. He defends well in junior due to his sense and having decent reach, but the pace will be a concern in that regard as he advances levels. In a sentence, Clarke projects as a second or third defenseman who can be on a top NHL power-play unit but may not be able to face top opponents defensively. 

 

Mason McTavish, C, Peterborough-OHL Jan. 30, 2003 | 6-foot-1 | 207 pounds 

Skating: Below-average

Puck Skills: Average

Hockey Sense: Average

Compete: Above-average

Shot: Above-average 

McTavish was good in Switzerland’s second-tier pro league, with the OHL season canceled, and great at the U18 worlds for Canada. McTavish has always shown he can score — and in numbers. He can attack defenses in numerous ways in the offensive zone with his NHL-caliber skill, vision and shot. He is a creative player who tries to make things happen. He has the shot to score from range versus pros and is very good at creating around the net. He works hard enough to win a lot of puck battles. The main flaw in McTavish’s skill set is his skating, as he will be OK in the NHL in that regard but will struggle to create separation. In a sentence, McTavish projects as a strong top-six forward in the NHL, a second-line center or a low-end first-line wing. 

 

Sebastian Cossa, G, Edmonton-WHL Nov. 21, 2002 | 6-foot-6 | 210 pounds 

Athleticism: Average

Hockey Sense: Average 

Cossa has been as good as you could have asked him to be in the WHL, dominating the league for the last two seasons. His athletic toolkit is very intriguing as a 6-foot-6 goalie who can move very well for that size. He covers a lot of net with his length. He has some quick twitch in his frame in how he moves around the net, and gets in and out of his butterfly. Cossa’s reads are typically great. He loses track of some pucks and can be a bit busy in the net but usually anticipates the play very well. I love his selective aggressiveness with his positioning, and how he takes away angles with his size as well as how well he uses his stick to break up a lot of plays. In a sentence, Cossa projects as a quality NHL starting goaltender with the potential to become an upper-echelon goalie. 

 

Jesper Wallstedt, G, Lulea-SHL Nov. 14, 2002 | 6-foot-3 | 214 pounds 

Athleticism: Below-average

Hockey Sense: Above-average 

Wallstedt started off very well, as a rare first-year draft-eligible to not only play but also excel in the SHL. He fell off in the second half, but his body of work between junior, pro and international is quite strong. Wallstedt’s athletic toolkit doesn’t jump out at you immediately. He’s about 6-foot-3 and moves well but not at an elite level. What makes him such a good goaltender is his tremendous sense and puck-tracking ability. He makes the right read at a remarkably high frequency, with little unnecessary movement in net. Wallstedt can make a tough save when he needs to and has some lateral quickness, but it often seems like he doesn’t have to adjust his technique much on a given save, especially when the puck is in the high-percentage areas. In a sentence, Wallstedt projects as a quality NHL starting goaltender. 

 

TIER 5: Projected middle of lineup player

 

Simon Edvinsson, LHD, Frolunda-SHL Feb. 5, 2003 | 6-foot-4 | 198 pounds 

Skating: Average

Puck Skills: Average

Hockey Sense: Average

Compete: Average 

Edvinsson was impressive in the junior ranks in Sweden. He was good, but not amazing at varying pro levels and was an anchor for Sweden’s U18 team internationally. He stands out instantly as a 6-foot-4 defenseman with legit offensive skill. It’s rare to see a player his size lead a rush or make a play off the blue line and dangle through opponents consistently like he does. Edvinsson is also quite a good skater for his size. His straightaway speed is just OK, but he’s got great edgework, showing the first step and quick turns to elude pressure and create clean exits and entries. Defensively his size and skating allow him to close gaps and make a lot of stops and he’s not afraid to be physical. He’s not a dynamic playmaker, but Edvinsson can make the heads-up first pass and shows some power-play poise. In a sentence, Edvinsson projects as a quality top-four defenseman and on a power-play unit with the potential to play higher in an NHL lineup. 

 

Corson Ceulemans, RHD, Brooks-AJHL May 5, 2003 | 6-foot-2 | 198 pounds 

Skating: Average

Puck Skills: Average

Hockey Sense: Average

Compete: Above-average 

Ceulemans’ season was cut short due to the AJHL’s pause. He was up and down during that season, but his U18 worlds was promising and his underage profile is encouraging. Ceulemans is a complete defenseman as a 6-foot-2, right-shot blueliner who is mobile, hard to play against and has offensive ability. At the AJHL level, he showed great one-on-one skill and the ability to move the puck. He kills a lot of rushes with his skating and physicality and picks off a lot of passes. At the higher levels of play I’ve watched him over the years I’ve questioned if the offense will translate at a top level, particularly the playmaking. But I see enough good things in his puck moving to think he can be a good NHL player. In a sentence, Ceulemans projects as a quality top-four NHL defenseman who could possibly be on a second power-play unit with the potential to play higher in a lineup. 

 

Nikita Chibrikov, RW, SKA-VHL Feb. 16, 2003 | 5-foot-10 | 170 pounds 

Skating: Average

Puck Skills: Average

Hockey Sense: Above-average

Compete: Above-average 

Chibrikov impressed early at the junior level this season, earning a quick promotion to playing versus men where he held his own at the VHL and KHL levels and making an appearance with Russia’s senior team. He was also a top scorer at the U18 worlds with 13 points in seven games. He’s undersized and not an amazing skater for his size, but he’s done well versus pros because of his tremendous playmaking ability and his ability to win battles despite his size. He can make slick one-on-one plays, creative plays under pressure and find seams consistently. He’s physical and responsible defensively. He could be a more explosive skater ideally, but the other elements of his game pop. In a sentence, Chibrikov projects as a top-six forward who will be on an NHL power play. 

 

Matthew Coronato, RW, Chicago-USHL Nov. 14, 2002 | 5-foot-10 | 183 pounds 

Skating: Above-average

Puck Skills: Average

Hockey Sense: Average

Compete: Above-average

Shot: Above-average 

Coronato was one of the best players in the USHL and among the leaders in most offensive categories. Coronato is an undersized forward with a lot of skill who can make plays with pace. He’s a strong skater, not elite for a small guy, but good enough to be an NHL player. He’s able to create controlled entries with his speed and skill, and make tough plays to his teammates on the move. Coronato is also able to play the half-wall on the power play and find seams as well as finish from distance. He killed penalties for Chicago and works hard enough to advance levels and win battles despite his size. In a sentence, Coronato projects as a versatile second-line NHL winger.

My Man <3 

[HighOnHockey]

What do people think about Olen Zellweger? I feel like I've hardly seen him mentioned here. Was one of Canada's top three defensemen at U18s. He's on the small side for a defenseman at 5'10, but his skating is explosive, and good puck skills to go with it. One of the youngest players in the draft as a September 10 birthday. Seems to have some offensive creativity, but I haven't paid close enough attention to get a good read on his hockey IQ.

[Eddie]

Hey everyone - I've been closely following the drafts for the last 10 years and as there has been almost nothing to do for the last year thanks to our old friend Corona I watched a lot of footage, and read a lot of reports. 

So, As my first post on these here forums I wanted to provide a slightly different take on a draft list which doesn't so much describe and rank the players but takes the Range I feel they are predicted to go in taken from many many sources while adding my own personal bias - From there i have added some theories on how likely they are to rise of fall around or beyond that range. 

Given our draft position and the many many variables of this years draft I thought it could be an interesting take and while its a long old story I hope some people might find it interesting : 

Range : 1-3. Owen Power, LHD, Michigan Wolverines (NCAA)
Does he drop ?  Small chance of dropping to 2 but no further. Seems consensus number 1 amongst scouts. Has the tools and the toolbox which make him as close to a sure thing as this draft is gonna see. Having a big mobile D certainly seems to be a thing this playoffs. He is likely to have a more Ekblad level career than Hedman tho so not the most exciting #1, and questions around fit in Buffalo along with commitment to a college route might cause a small place drop.
 

Range : 1-3. Matthew Beniers, C/W, Michigan Wolverines (NCAA)
Does he move up ? Low chance he goes #1.  If Buffalo really feel they are going to lose both Reinhart and Eichel then maybe they choose the center over the D where they already have Dahlin. If not then likely they do go with Power who is the consensus better player
Does he drop ? Unlikely to drop below three. High motor, character, all round game and the value of playing the center position makes him a very appealing pick. That being said, there are not many truly elite aspects of his game with scouts feeling he is more likely ultimately a 2nd center, again making him not the most exciting top 2 pick.  It could be a team or two that prefers the higher ceiling of one of the big D in this position. 

Range : 3-5. William Eklund, C/W, Djurgårdens IF (SHL)
Does he move up ? Highly unlikely. Too many good players at more important positions ( based on the feeling he will play W in the NHL). 
Does he Drop ? Very unlikely he drops below 5. Due to already being a proven talent in the SHL Eklund is a very safe bet to be a high impact scoring forward at NHL level. His final position will depend on how the teams picking in this range value the other D or really believe in one of the other high skill cap forwards.
 
 
Range : 3-11. Dylan Guenther, C/W, Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL)
Does he move up ? Scouts were very high on him earlier in the year after posting some impressive numbers. He could move up as high as 3 if a team in need of high scoring potential coupled with an all round game really likes the player.
Does he drop ? I think Guenther is one of the largest wildcards in the top 11. He has high IQ and a great motor but his skill level is lower than you would like for a top 5 pick. Sample size is lower and against weaker opposition. Projects to wing which is a less favourable position. Was outshined by other prospects at the U18’s.

Range : 2-9 . Brandt Clarke, RHD, HC Nove Zamky (Slovakia) – on loan from Barrie Colts (OHL)
Does he move up ? Clarke has a good chance of moving as high as 2. Tho I think 3-5 is more likely. His Offensive talents are exactly what many teams are looking for in an offensive D /  Powerplay quaterback. He has good size and great I.Q. He is also Right Handed and has at least a developing defensive game.
Does he Drop ? He could drop as far as Vancouver at 9 where he would feel a huge organizational need - but I think that’s highly unlikely… He struggled defensively when playing against men this season. His skating is not great and it would seem still affected by a prior knee injury that could scare teams off. I’m telling u there is a chance ;-) 

Range : 5-12. Luke Hughes, LHD, USNTDP Juniors (USHL)
Does he move up ? I feel Luke could be a bit more of a wild card than some people think. I think it's possible he moves as high as 4. His bloodline seems to imply that he is a sure bet to make the show.  He has a lot of good looking tools and I feel you could make an argument for him being the 3rd best offensive D in the draft.
Does he drop ? Once you add in season ending foot surgery, a below average defensive game and the odd murmurings of some attitude problems. Then look at his offensive tools that are way less developed than Quinn who I also feel had a better defensive game in his draft year (and still dropped to our extreme benefit!). If you're banking on his larger frame making up for those short falls - closer inspection of his game proves he hardly uses that size to good effect.  He could drop outside the top 10 - but i do think the upsides will out weigh the downsides when it comes to Luke and someone will take him in the middle of the top 10 region.

Range : 3-11. Simon Edvinsson, LHD, Frölunda HC (SHL)
Does he move up ? I have seen a lot of people compare Edvinsson to Philip Broberg from the 2019 draft. While they are stylistically a little different they are very similar on the risk Vs reward front.  If a team likes him as much as Edmonton did Broberg I could see him going as high as 3. And if he can put all the aspects of his game together coupled with his size he could very well be the best D in this draft.
Does he drop ? Edvinsson has all the tools to be a Norris level D - he also has all the risk of being a Gudbransson level bust. His decision making can be terrible. Sbisa pizza level passing plagues his breakout game and routine mistakes indicate IQ problems. There may just be too much risk here for team to take a gamble in the top 10 and he could end up in free fall. I still think it's likely he goes top 11 - probably top 8 just like Broberg.

Range : 2-11. Kent Johnson, C, Michigan Wolverines (NCAA)
Does he move up ? Johnson has the highest skill ceiling of any forward in the top 10. The kid has a crazy offensive toolbox with some highlight reel plays on show. He could have Petey / Barzal level potential if he can put it all together. If a team believes he has the drive and IQ to put it together i can see him going 2-6 no problem.
Does he drop ? Johnson does have a small frame and an underdeveloped defensive game. He also has some IQ problems that lead to holding onto the puck for too long and ultimately making a bad decision. He at times reminds me of Drouin in his draft year and could follow his career path if he is unable to pull things together.  Still, i think his upside is too much to pass up on. I can still see him going 5-10.

Range : 9-15. Jesper Wallstedt, G, Luleå HF (SHL)
Does he move up ? The only way I really see Wallstedt moving up is one of the teams in the top 10 see this pick as the only way of shoring up the position. Some noise coming out of Detroit and San Jose that adding this player could be just what they need and could play sooner rather than later for a G prospect given his already impressive numbers in the SHL. I think the overall upside is not there to justify taking Wallstedt in the top 5-7. 
Does he drop ? I think unless he really fits a teams needs he will ultimately go 10-17 range. His upside looks lower than some recent first round pick Gs who went lower than his projection range and picking a G top 10 can always be a risky proposition. I feel he goes to Det / SJ or he drops 12-15.

Range : 3-15  Mason McTavish, C, EHC Olten (SL) – on loan from Peterborough Petes (OHL)
Does he move up ? The C factor coupled with the compete, bloodline and shot could well see McTavish go top 5-10. He could be this year's Hayton or KK for sure. He looked good at the U18’s, not out of his depth against men in the Swiss league and he brings the game teams win with in the playoffs. He seems mature and intelligent in all interviews i have seen.
Does he drop ? I think there is no chance he drops below 12. However I do think people are now over hyping Mason. While he has compete and character, he doesn’t have the pace and skill of other players around him and If you want a pure goal scoring center both Sillinger and Lucius are better options. I think he would be a perfect fit for Vancouver as his pretty safe floor of competitive 3rd line center who can chip in 20 goals would fill a big organizational need. He looks very similar to Bo in his draft year. Most likely goes 5-10.

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I really feel the above is the top 9 (+ 1 G) that Benning was talking about - the drop off from here is a bit larger - tho there are a few interesting prospect who could jump up depending on scouting / interviews who i will briefly cover next

Top 20. Fabian Lysell, RW, Luleå HF (SHL)
Strong motor with a tenacious game and a high skill ceiling to boot. Very much could be a Ehlers / Nylander type of pick due to his current size (tho he plays a more complete game with less offensive IQ that those players).Small frame who struggled a bit against men and his trade request raised concerns about attitude. If a team with strong Sweedish scouting like Detroit or Vancouver picks him I think he turn out to be a great pick - otherwise likely goes 12-20.

Top 20. Chaz Lucius, C/W, U.S. National U18 Team (USDP)
Huge potential to be highly skilled scoring forward. He is defensively responsible and has good hands, reasonable size with a scary array of deadly shots in his arsenal. Only his skating is suspect. An injury hit season has enabled scouts to only get a short look at him so likely he now goes outside the top 10 however he could end up being a Barzal like pickup for some lucky team in the mid teens - if someone in the top 10 doesn’t take a small reach to snag him.

Top 20. Cole Sillinger, C, Sioux Falls Stampede (USHL)
Another good goal scoring prospect whose stock has probably been affected badly by the pandemic. I do think he is a tier below Lucius with even worse staking. So baring his bloodline or other insider scouting knowledge i find it hard to believe he would go before Lucius, Johnson and McTavish

Top 20. Carson Lambos, LHD, Winnipeg ICE (WHL)
Lambos could be one of if not the best all round D of this draft and a perfect fit for Vancouver's blueline baring the small issue of handedness. He is a great powerful skater with a large body and most importantly for us, a killer shot from the point. Biggest concerns seem to be around his season ending injury which is still largely undisclosed in nature - meaning it could be a similar knee injury to that which has seriously hampered OJ’s development. I do actually believe if not for this injury and if he had played a full season that he could be challenging for 3rd best D prospect right now. 

Final potential mentions to players who could be seeing their draft stock rise but also pretty unlikely to be of consideration when Vancouver pick due to being a tier lower in skill or with other added risk areas. Still can’t say i would be upset if we picked one of the following either :

Fyodor Svechkov, C/LW, Ladia Togliatti (MHL)
Nikita Chibrikov, RW, SKA-1946 St. Petersburg (MHL)
Corson Ceulemans, RHD, Brooks Bandits (AJHL)
Zachary L’Heureux, C, Halifax Mooseheads (QMJHL)
Aatu Räty, C, Kärpät (Liiga)