The 2024 NHL draft is happening this weekend. Watch a replay of Spherical 1 right here and tune in Saturday (11:30 a.m. ET, ESPN+) for Rounds 2-7.
From the primary spherical all the best way to choose No. 225 in Spherical 7, this web page is your private home for each choice, together with scouting notes from Rachel Doerrie, and staff match evaluation for the 32 gamers taken within the first spherical from Ryan S. Clark and Greg Wyshynski.
Extra: Ultimate mock
Prospect rankings
Profiles: Celebrini
Tij Iginla
Staff: Boston College (H-EAST) | Rank: 1
DOB: 06/13/06 | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 190 | Shot: L
2023-24 stats: GP: 38 | G: 32 | A: 32 | P: 64
Scouting notes: There is no such thing as a space of the sport the place reputable issues exist. Merely put, he doesn’t have a weak level. He excels as a size of the ice participant, making vital contributions on each ends.
Offensively, he navigates the center of the ice, disrupts defensive schemes and finds passing lanes that others can not. His puck safety abilities, willingness to play by contact, spin off defenders and preserve play are qualities that may translate properly to the NHL. Even with out the puck, he stays a scoring menace because of his capacity to seek out open areas, retains his stick away from defenders and releases the puck rapidly. — Doerrie
Staff match: Rebuilds require cornerstone gamers. Celebrini seems to be simply that, contemplating this 12 months’s draft was generally known as “The Celebrini Draft.” Ending with the NHL’s worst report meant the Sharks had a variety of areas that wanted to be addressed. Amongst them: top-six ahead assist. Enter Celebrini.
Whereas the likelihood exists that Celebrini might return to BU for his sophomore 12 months, he might step proper in to the Sharks’ lineup. Since 2005, the forwards who have been chosen with the No. 1 choose performed the following season. It is a listing that features Sidney Crosby, Nathan MacKinnon, Auston Matthews, Connor McDavid and final 12 months’s No. 1 choose, Connor Bedard. Moreover, Celebrini now formally turns into the face of a promising rebuild that already had Thomas Bordeleau, William Eklund, Mario Ferraro, Quinten Musty and the staff’s 2023 first-round choose in Will Smith, who’s leaving Boston Faculty after one season after signing his entry-level contract with the Sharks. — Clark
Staff: Michigan State (BIG10) | Rank: 3
DOB: 10/28/05 | Ht: 6-2 | Wt: 208 | Shot: R
2023-24 stats: GP: 38 | G: 9 | A: 26 | P: 35
Scouting notes: The Belarusian is broadly considered the most effective defender within the draft class, impressing scouts in lots of areas. A right-shot defenseman, he imposes himself bodily and dictates offensive play. His fast improvement has led scouts to imagine he might rapidly turn into an impactful two-way defenseman within the NHL. He excels at making good first passes, discovering capturing lanes and taking management of the sport from the blue line.
Although nonetheless uncooked defensively, he has great upside because of his bodily attributes, glorious skating capacity and excessive puck battle success fee. Persistently engaged and a play driver at each ends of the ice, he has the potential to shift momentum. Levshunov might turn into a top-pairing defenseman who dictates play in transition and tilts the ice in his staff’s favor. — Doerrie
Staff match: The Blackhawks discovered their subsequent foundational participant atop final 12 months’s draft in ahead Connor Bedard, who gained the Calder Trophy because the NHL’s Rookie of the 12 months on Thursday. However additionally they needed to strip down their staff to the foundations to get him. The period of the rebuild round Bedard is fully contingent on the gamers with whom they encompass him. To that finish, Levshunov is a large addition, actually and figuratively.
The Blackhawks have some intriguing younger defenseman of their system, however not sufficient of them. Kevin Korchinski performed 76 video games as a rookie final season and has some upside. Wyatt Kaiser break up time between the Blackhawks and AHL Rockford. Sam Rinzel, chosen twenty fifth general in 2022, had an excellent first season with the College of Minnesota. However what they’ve in Levshunov is, for lack of a greater label, “The Man.” The large blueliner who may very well be their Victor Hedman. These dynastic Lightning groups have been constructed on offensive stars reminiscent of Steven Stamkos and Nikita Kucherov, however they gained Cups because of the efforts of Hedman on the again finish. This draft may very well be seemed again on as a vital second of the Bedard period in Chicago. — Wyshynski
0:35
Artyom Levshunov’s NHL draft profile
Take a look at the performs that helped make Michigan State’s Artyom Levshunov one of many high prospects within the NHL draft.
Staff: Oshawa (OHL) | Rank: 13
DOB: 01/28/06 | Ht: 6-2.25 | Wt: 177 | Shot: R
2023-24 stats: GP: 63 | G: 27 | A: 41 | P: 68
Scouting notes: Offensively, it’s troublesome to discover a weak point. He’s a dual-threat menace within the offensive zone and dropped extra jaws in one-on-one play than every other draft-eligible participant within the OHL this season. His capacity to drive defenders into dangerous spots and manipulate his method round them is terrifying. Not solely is he a menace in tight conditions, however he is additionally a menace in transition. The puck follows him across the ice, and he slices defensive protection with ease by glorious reads, decisive passing and a high quality shot.
Off the puck, he makes use of his consciousness to win pucks again. Because the season progressed, he turned a nightmare on the forecheck, routinely hemming gamers in and profitable pucks again. For lack of a greater phrase, he is a gamer. If he needs the puck, he is greater than possible going to finish up with it. He isn’t an elite skater, however he will get to the place he must go, performs two steps forward of his friends and makes his teammates higher. There are groups which have him of their high 5, and whereas that could be a little excessive for me, it’s simple to know why scouts imagine Sennecke may very well be a top-line participant. — Doerrie
Staff match: As soon as once more, Geese common supervisor Pat Verbeek went in a little bit of an sudden route by taking Sennecke. The Geese have been in a little bit of a difficult scenario when it got here to including to their rebuild. Not that they could not have used extra forwards, however they have already got fairly a little bit of youth with Leo Carlsson, Cutter Gauthier, Mason McTavish, Troy Terry and Trevor Zegras. The identical holds true with defensemen after all, with Jackson LaCombe and Pavel Mintyukov enjoying as rookies final season and one other defenseman, Olen Zellweger, getting 9 factors in 26 video games with the Geese after spending nearly all of the 12 months within the AHL with the San Diego Gulls.
Now that they’ve added Sennecke, the Geese have one other top-six ahead with dimension because the 6-foot-2 Sennecke will probably be a participant who provides the Geese another choice of their assault. — Clark
1:08
Beckett Sennecke has wonderful response to being drafted No. 3 by the Geese
Beckett Sennecke is chosen by the Anaheim Geese with the No. 3 choose within the 2024 NHL draft.
Staff: Drugs Hat (WHL) | Rank: 4
DOB: 02/03/06 | Ht: 6-3.25 | Wt: 210 | Shot: L
2023-24 stats: GP: 32 | G: 27 | A: 19 | P: 46
Scouting notes: Lindstrom combines velocity, dimension and talent, making him a dominant drive on the junior degree. He successfully makes use of his body to guard the puck, wins battles and performs by contact in difficult areas of the ice. His bodily bundle and skating capacity make him a formidable opponent on the frenzy and in puck battles. If he continues to develop his capacity to play by contact, he has the instruments to be a superb energy ahead on the NHL degree. His velocity in transition retains defensemen on their heels and he alters gears to create house.
With out the puck, he reads off his linemates properly and finds open pockets of house. As a flexible offensive participant, he is aware of when to make use of his physicality to create scoring probabilities or maintain the puck to arrange performs within the offensive zone. Though his harm historical past is a priority, projections point out that Lindstrom might turn into a second-line heart with the potential to attain 70 factors over an extended interval. He might take longer to develop, however a participant along with his toolbox is intriguing to many groups. — Doerrie
Staff match: That is the primary Blue Jackets draft since 2012 that did not have Jarmo Kekalainen operating the desk. He was dismissed as common supervisor earlier this season, creating a gap for one of many NHL’s most attention-grabbing jobs. Columbus is a spot the place the bar for achievement is low and the expertise within the prospect pool is excessive.
It simply obtained increased. New GM Don Waddell, who took over the Blue Jackets after leaving the Carolina Hurricanes, had a variety of choices after the Geese shocked the draft by taking Beckett Sennecke third general. They fought some temptation and added Lindstrom. The Drugs Hat heart joins heart Adam Fantilli, the third general choose in 2023 who had 27 factors in 49 video games this season; Kent Johnson, one other Michigan alum, who’s getting into his fourth NHL season; and the large physique and booming shot of defenseman David Jiricek as the following era of the Blue Jackets. With Cole Sillinger additionally up the center, the times of the Blue Jackets being the NHL’s donut — nothing within the center — seem over. — Wyshynski
Staff: SKA St. Petersburg Jr. (RUSSIA-JR.) | Rank: 2
DOB: 12/10/05 | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 181 | Shot: L
2023-24 stats: GP: 30 | G: 23 | A: 37 | P: 60
Scouting notes: Offensively, he is the whole bundle and is projected to be a top-six difference-maker within the NHL. His dynamic capacity to create offense combines an excellent launch, elite imaginative and prescient and elite puckhandling abilities, maybe the most effective on this draft class. He is larger and extra bodily mature than initially thought, which drew consideration on the Florida showcase. Able to driving play offensively, Demidov constantly took over video games within the playoffs, incomes the MVP award.
He ranks within the high 5% for capturing and passing metrics and is a transition menace. He drives the center from the surface and constantly will get himself to the damaging scoring areas. As a flexible offensive participant, Demidov has the potential to be a 40-goal, 40-assist producer and is the one participant with a ceiling near Celebrini’s. — Doerrie
Staff match: Previous to the draft, it appeared that getting a ahead was going to be the transfer for the Canadiens. They usually fulfilled that in taking Demidov. They have been ready to take a ahead final 12 months however handed on Matvei Michkov earlier than taking defenseman David Reinbacher. With Reinbacher being the choose final season, he added to a defensive setup that already included Kaiden Guhle, Logan Mailloux and Jayden Struble.
Concentrating on defensemen the previous few years created that opening to take a ahead for the second time in three years, having chosen Juraj Slafkovsky with the No. 1 choose in 2022. Now the Canadiens have one other top-six ahead in Demidov, who sooner or later will make the trek to North America. And when he does, he’ll be part of Slafkovsky and Cole Caufield as one other homegrown participant who’s trying to take the Habs again to prominence within the Japanese Convention. — Clark
1:07
Celine Dion proclaims Canadiens’ No. 5 choose in NHL draft
Celine Dion proclaims the Montreal Canadiens’ fifth general choose, Ivan Demidov.
Staff: Kelowna (WHL) | Rank: 7
DOB: 08/04/06 | Ht: 5-11.75 | Wt: 182 | Shot: L
2023-24 stats: GP: 64 | G: 47 | A: 37 | P: 84
Scouting notes: His offensive instincts and deadly wrist shot make him a severe goal-scoring menace with and with out the puck. His puck talent steadily improved this season, and he turned a severe offensive menace. When he has possession, Iginla shows glorious puckhandling, sturdy safety and a launch that surprises goaltenders. He has a novel understanding of learn how to mix aggressive physicality with elite talent, a harmful mixture.
With out the puck, he finds open areas, forechecks tenaciously and displays the competitiveness his father Jarome was identified for. Though he wants to enhance defensively, his mixture of skating, puck abilities, tenacity and capturing capacity ought to allow him to contribute constantly in a top-six position, with a ceiling of a top-line winger. — Doerrie
Staff match: When the Arizona Coyotes have been offered to Smith Leisure Group and relocated to Utah, their historical past did not include them. So that is the primary choose ever made by this franchise.
However their hockey operations workers was imported together with the gamers. That included GM Invoice Armstrong, whose calling card has at all times been his work in scouting and drafting. That is enabled Utah to have gamers reminiscent of ahead Logan Cooley and Dylan Guenther, who made an affect on the NHL degree, in addition to heart Conor Geekie, defenseman Maveric Lamoureux and KHL defensemen Dmitry Simashev and Daniil However.
Armstrong informed me that Utah would not really feel stress so as to add a “poster on the aspect of the sector” degree star for its first season in Salt Lake Metropolis, as a result of there may be some within the group who might match that position. It may need one other in Tij Iginla. He is obtained the hockey legacy of his Corridor of Fame father and his personal high-end expertise. Iginla is a perfect choice given the membership’s wants on offense, and as somebody who can finally assist promote hockey to a brand new fan base. — Wyshynski
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Tij Iginla’s NHL draft profile
Check out the highlights that make Tij Iginla a compelling NHL draft prospect.
Staff: Calgary (WHL) | Rank: 14
DOB: 09/29/05 | Ht: 6-2.75 | Wt: 201 | Shot: R
2023-24 stats: GP: 66 | G: 30 | A: 41 | P: 71
Scouting notes: Yakemchuk is an offensive difference-maker on the junior degree and confirmed glimpses of fantastic puck distribution. He dictates the facility play from the purpose, however he must develop the flexibility to facilitate offense to reap the benefits of his shot within the NHL. He manipulates defenders with glorious arms, fakes and sheer energy. The shortage of an explosive skating stride makes him simpler to defend than a extra elusive skater.
Defensively, he is a piece in progress. His skating mobility wants to enhance to be an efficient transition defender within the NHL. Scouts and executives love his imply streak, as he hits to go away a mark. He will get caught puck-watching or stepping out of place to be bodily. He lacks the skating step to catch opponents once they beat him in these conditions, an space he must develop earlier than making the leap. — Doerrie
Staff match: Drafting Yakemchuk might show to be an intriguing transfer for just a few causes. The primary is that this was the primary time in two years the Senators used a first-round choose. It’s kind of of a weird dynamic for a franchise that is been attempting to shed the title of rebuild and transition right into a playoff staff, solely to overlook the postseason for the previous seven campaigns.
That stated, Yakemchuk provides it a younger defenseman who provides to a bunch that already has Thomas Chabot, Jakob Chychrun, Jake Sanderson and Jacob Bernard-Docker, amongst others. However that additionally comes with the understanding that Chychrun’s future with the membership is in query. He has a 12 months left on his contract earlier than hitting free company. He might both signal a brand new deal or the Sens might commerce him. Both method, they will have choices, and getting Yakemchuk will now play a giant position in that dynamic. — Clark
Staff: Spokane (WHL) | Rank: 10
DOB: 01/14/06 | Ht: 5-10 | Wt: 170 | Shot: L
2023-24 stats: GP: 68 | G: 54 | A: 62 | P: 116
Scouting notes: Catton is a type of “get you out of your seats” gamers. He is dynamic with the puck, reads defensive constructions, slices by protection and is a nightmare to defend in one-on-one conditions. His capacity to govern defenders along with his velocity and talent is pure brilliance. He is one of the harmful transition gamers within the draft, and even at 5-10, he is proven a capability to execute high-skill performs in site visitors.
As is the case with any participant of this talent set, he wants to choose his spots somewhat higher to enhance his offensive effectivity. The turnovers will not be going to fly on the NHL degree, and he’ll must develop his capacity to create offense when he is not in transition. The identical manipulation, stick talent and deception he makes use of on the frenzy must be utilized in smaller areas. If he can take pucks off the wall and get to the center, there’s a higher likelihood he hits his ceiling of a top-six, level producer.
He is already a twin menace with a promising arsenal of releases and shot varieties. Provided that he understands learn how to put defenders in susceptible postures, it isn’t a stretch to imagine his offensive sport will proceed to enhance. I am undecided he is a middle within the NHL, however the dynamic twin menace needs to be an entertaining participant to look at for years. — Doerrie
Staff match: Getting into the draft, the narrative surrounding the Kraken was that they wanted to draft a defenseman. Specifically, a puck mover who might assist facilitate possession for a staff that is struggled to attain targets in two of their first three seasons. Though the argument may very well be had that they have already got that with Ryker Evans.
It nonetheless amounted to the Kraken needing prospects who can rating or create targets and it led to them selecting Berkly Catton. He addresses their scoring wants supplied he scored 54 targets and 116 factors for the Spokane Chiefs final season. If the Kraken decide to maintain Catton at heart, he’ll be part of their backbone of the long run that features Matty Beniers and Shane Wright. However there’s an opportunity he may very well be moved to the wing, with the expectation that he might sometime play alongside Beniers on one of many Kraken’s high two strains and on their energy play. — Clark
Staff: Saginaw (OHL) | Rank: 5
DOB: 02/15/06 | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 179 | Shot: R
2023-24 stats: GP: 66 | G: 33 | A: 63 | P: 96
Scouting notes: Parekh is the highest offensive defenseman within the draft, with out query. He has all of the makings of a game-breaker on the blue line. His statistics and mannequin projections stand out, surpassing each different defenseman besides Levshunov. He’s clearly within the high tier, projected as a top-four offensive catalyst with an over 80% likelihood of enjoying 200-plus NHL video games.
Proper-handed offensive dynamos are uncommon and infrequently out there by way of commerce. Parekh has all of the qualities of a top-notch power-play quarterback and even-strength play driver, able to scoring upward of 60 factors per season within the NHL. He had top-of-the-line draft-eligible seasons in CHL historical past, which shouldn’t be ignored. His elite four-way mobility permits him to evade opponents and create house effortlessly.
His defensive sport improved all through the OHL season, and whereas it isn’t as strong as some would possibly choose, his skating and hockey sense equip him to defend successfully on the NHL degree. His offensive instincts are innate and type the inspiration of his play-driving offense. Mix his offensive instincts with demonstrated capacity to maneuver pucks to harmful areas, create capturing alternatives and get pucks by, and Parekh presents an intriguing bundle. His ceiling is the best amongst defensemen within the draft, confidently projecting him as an impactful top-four defenseman over a prolonged NHL profession. — Doerrie
Staff match: The choose wasn’t Tij Iginla and that is going to be a bummer for lots of Flames followers. However Zayne Parekh is a strong alternative and a participant who will definitely assist with Calgary’s rebuild … retool … no matter it’s that GM Craig Conroy is doing with this franchise, which is content material to ship out some veterans (Jacob Markstrom, Andrew Mangiapane), whereas holding onto others (like reportedly, Nazem Kadri). They’ve some high quality younger gamers up entrance reminiscent of winger Matt Coronato, who performed 35 video games within the NHL; heart Connor Zary, who had a powerful rookie season with 34 factors in 63 video games; and a giant ahead in Samuel Honzek.
Now they add Parekh, a participant who has electrifying offensive upside. Parekh is the primary defenseman the Flames chosen within the first spherical since Juuso Valimaki at No. 16 in 2017. They merely did not have a participant along with his talent set of their pipeline, and this choose is a superb one for Calgary. — Wyshynski
Staff: Nizhny Novgorod (RUSSIA) | Rank: 8
DOB: 04/11/06 | Ht: 6-7 | Wt: 211 | Shot: L
2023-24 stats: GP: 63 | G: 3 | A: 8 | P: 11
Scouting notes: At 6-7, this hulking defender performed vital minutes for one of many KHL’s higher groups, a rarity at age 17, and this vastly enhances his projection. Whereas he is not anticipated to be dynamic within the NHL, his growing offensive abilities counsel he might turn into a 35- to 40-point producer.
He skates very properly, with good edgework and agility, which is clear in his defensive transitions and his motion alongside the offensive blue line. If he can add energy with out shedding mobility, he might turn into a high-minute defenseman within the NHL, able to shutting down the opposition’s greatest gamers.
His ground is increased than different high defensive prospects because of his confirmed capacity to achieve the KHL. Scouts are excessive on his skating capacity, physicality and transition protection. There are issues about his capacity to learn the play and make good puck choices. He’ll want time to boost his capacity to facilitate breakouts, transition offense and browse stress. —Doerrie
Staff match: There was loads of hypothesis that the Devils would transfer this choose — it was definitely in play within the hours main as much as the draft. However New Jersey stored it and added to the deepest a part of its prospect pool: the blue line.
Anton Silayev is a 6-7 mountain, a defensive defenseman who has great skating capacity and a incredible attain. They moved 24-year-old Kevin Bahl, who’s 6-6, for goalie Jacob Markstrom. Silayev greater than matches in as an eventual alternative. He joins Calder Trophy finalist Luke Hughes, Simon Nemec and finally Seamus Casey because the defensive foundations for years to come back. — Wyshynski
Staff: London (OHL) | Rank: 11
DOB: 06/07/06 | Ht: 6-2.5 | Wt: 199 | Shot: L
2023-24 stats: GP: 68 | G: 18 | A: 52 | P: 70
Scouting notes: Dickinson is without doubt one of the greatest all-around skating defensemen within the draft, and it’s significantly evident in transition. Offensively, he carries the puck with ease, evades defenders, cuts to the center and creates scoring probabilities.
Defensively, he maintains an excellent hole, matches opponent’s velocity and finishes his checks. His shot is above common, however he’s unlikely to overpower goalies on the NHL degree. His skating and defensive talents will carry him within the NHL. These are all attributes scouts and coaches love. It’s simple to see why the mannequin initiatives him to be a top-four defender with a puncher’s likelihood of being a top-pairing man.
The large query with Dickinson is decision-making on each side of the puck. On the junior degree, he is so evasive and above his friends within the skating division, that it masks some consciousness points. On the frenzy, he can skate himself into bother and make life extra difficult when an easier play exists. Within the defensive zone, he will get caught on the improper aspect of gamers and makes questionable choices with the puck after he wins a battle. He is a strong athlete who will play within the NHL, however time will inform if he can develop his consciousness and reads to reap the benefits of his abilities and turn into a difference-maker. — Doerrie
Staff match: When the Sharks traded as much as No. 11 on Thursday, it got here with the expectation that they have been going to make use of that choose to get a defenseman, particularly contemplating they already had Celebrini, along with forwards reminiscent of Bordeleau, Eklund, Musty and Smith. And that is not together with who they took in 2022, heart Filip Bystedt.
That perception solely intensified by the point the Sharks picked at 11, as defensemen reminiscent of Zeev Buium and Sam Dickinson have been nonetheless out there when it got here time for his or her second choose of the primary spherical. They selected Dickinson, who provides them a large defenseman who cannot solely serve in a top-pairing position however can be on the controls of an influence play. An influence play that within the coming years may very well be led by Celebrini, Smith, Dickinson and Eklund. — Clark
Staff: Denver (NCHC) | Rank: 6
DOB: 12/07/05 | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 183 | Shot: L
2023-24 stats: GP: 42 | G: 11 | A: 39 | P: 50
Scouting notes: Probably the greatest defensemen in school hockey this season, Buium is confidently projected as a top-four defenseman within the NHL. He constantly stands out by becoming a member of the frenzy, defending properly in transition and excelling in man-to-man protection in his personal zone. He is an elite two-way defenseman on the school degree and is probably going probably the most environment friendly puck mover on this draft class. He reveals elite hockey sense and appears to be two to a few performs forward, permitting him to make performs that different gamers cannot.
Defensively, he maintains a decent hole, adapts to modifications in tempo and makes use of glorious edgework to keep away from getting crushed in tight conditions. His puck abilities, mixed with varied head and shoulder fakes, allow him to create house and passing lanes. If there’s a higher one-on-one defenseman on this draft, I’ve but to see him.
Buium elevates his play as video games intensify and was certainly one of Staff USA’s greatest gamers on the World Juniors as an underage participant, along with being an important a part of the NCAA champion Denver blue line. With all of the qualities of a play-driving, momentum-shifting defenseman, Buium may very well be prepared for the NHL by the tip of the 2024-25 school season. — Doerrie
Staff match: GM Invoice Guerin obtained aggressive right here to pick out Zeev Buium, and rightfully so. Buium has a excessive hockey IQ and could be somebody that may run an NHL energy play, main all NCAA defenseman in factors final season (50). Denver trusted him massive time in profitable the nationwide title this season — he performed 31 minutes towards Boston College within the semifinal and greater than 29 minutes towards Boston Faculty for the title.
He is an affect participant and the best defenseman the Wild have taken since Matt Dumba at seventh general in 2012. — Wyshynski
Staff: Guelph (OHL) | Rank: 26
DOB: 08/21/06 | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 180 | Shot: R
2023-24 stats: GP: 68 | G: 20 | A: 54 | P: 74
Scouting notes: Luchanko has all of the makings of a dream bottom-six position. Given the offensive instincts and talents he has proven this season, Luchanko has a greater capacity to drive play than many imagine. He is a superb two-way participant, a uncommon feat for a really younger participant in a draft class. The mixture of manufacturing, improvement and a later birthday give Luchanko a projection nearer to center six than backside six.
Luchanko was the principle beneficiary of Matthew Poitras’ transfer to the Bruins, permitting him to turn into the first driver on each side of the puck. His skating takes the tempo of the sport to a different degree, forcing his opponents to play at speeds wherein they’re uncomfortable. His capacity to dictate the play is eye-opening, beating defenders clear along with his velocity whereas being a royal ache to cope with on the forecheck and backcheck. He’s in the course of every part that occurs, displaying off a detail-oriented sport that features consciousness, shiftiness and talent that scouts love. — Doerrie
Staff match: Buying and selling right down to No. 13 earned some further draft capital. However additionally they landed a middle in Jett Luchanko that provides to a future that already contains Noah Cates, Joel Farabee, Tyson Foerster and Matvei Michkov. Even with that many forwards, the Flyers have been nonetheless in want of a middle. That made Luchanko or Konsta Helenius an choice.
The final time they drafted a middle within the first spherical was in 2018 once they took Jay O’Brien, who they didn’t signal (and earned a compensatory choose this 12 months for it). Previous to that, It was 2017 once they took Nolan Patrick with the second choose and Morgan Frost at 27. Patrick was traded, whereas Frost stays with the membership. Luchanko provides the Flyers somebody who initiatives as a two-way choice who may very well be anchoring one of many strains of a rebuild that took a big step ahead in 2023-24. — Clark
1:23
Legendary ring announcer Michael Buffer calls thirteenth choose for Flyers
Philadelphia native Michael Buffer proclaims that Jett Luchanko is headed to the Flyers.
Staff: Jukurit (FINLAND) | Rank: 12
DOB: 05/11/06 | Ht: 5-10.75 | Wt: 180 | Shot: R
2023-24 stats: GP: 51 | G: 14 | A: 22 | P: 36
Scouting notes: Helenius is great defensively, and his play is straight away projectable to the NHL. Offensively, he’s efficient, not flashy. He retrieves pucks, enters the zone with possession, creates house with efficient physique positioning and depends on his elite hockey sense to make sound choices offensively. The mixture of his competitiveness, hockey sense and puck administration make him a extremely efficient and dependable participant in all three zones.
He lacks dynamic attributes that different gamers within the draft class possess, however he makes up for that his in his capacity to be the engine of his line. He constantly drives play and confirmed flashes of offensive creativity, however Helenius doesn’t have a standout offensive attribute. He is a well-rounded, length-of-the-ice participant who will probably be impactful on each side of the puck on the NHL degree. Scouts see some Mikael Backlund in him, which is excessive reward for the younger Finn.
A second-line heart/high penalty killer who can drive play at even energy is one thing each contender wants. That’s Helenius. If his offense develops, there’s an opportunity he matches the mildew of a Joel Eriksson Ek or Elias Lindholm sort of participant. — Doerrie
Staff match: The Sabres traded down this week, buying the Devils’ No. 42 general choose of their flip-flop with the Sharks. Helenius is a strong two-way heart who joins a depth chart that features Tage Thompson, Dylan Cozens, Peyton Krebs, Matthew Savoie, Jiri Kulich and Noah Ostlund.
Clearly, a few of them might shift to the wing, however the backside line is that the Sabres have a ton of expertise on the best way up entrance, to associate with the foundational defensemen in Rasmus Dahlin and Owen Energy. — Wyshynski
Staff: Mora (SWEDEN-2) | Rank: 19
DOB: 10/05/05 | Ht: 6-1 | Wt: 198 | Shot: R
2023-24 stats: GP: 41 | G: 8 | A: 10 | P: 18
Scouting notes: The Norwegian ahead is without doubt one of the most well-rounded gamers within the draft. The mix of grit, talent and in-tight scoring capacity has scouts believing he’s a Swiss Military knife on the NHL degree. There may be perception that he may very well be the most effective two-way ahead within the draft not named Celebrini.
Defensively, he could also be the most effective ahead within the draft. He’s constantly in the best positions, makes glorious reads in defensive transition and reads off his teammates properly to help the puck. His capacity to retrieve pucks, win puck battles and place his physique in ways in which make it almost not possible to knock him off the puck will solely enhance has he bodily matures and provides energy. He is unafraid to ship a board-shaking physique test to shift momentum, however doesn’t put himself out of place to take action. He separates opponents from the puck, drives ahead and makes use of his highly effective body to chop to the center or the online. If there’s a weak point in his defensive sport, I’ve but to seek out it.
The downside with Brandsegg-Nygard is that he is not dynamic. His ceiling is not as excessive as different gamers, however his ground is increased than almost each ahead exterior of the highest 5. There may be little doubt he will probably be a middle-six energy ahead who will probably be deployed to close down opponent’s greatest gamers and end offensive alternatives in tight. As one scout put it, “He is not the man you construct round, however definitely the kind of participant that each contender needs in the course of their lineup.” — Doerrie
Staff match: What’s this? The Purple Wings went into Europe and drafted a participant?
In all seriousness, Brandsegg-Nygard was regarded as a participant who might have gone on this vary, so it wasn’t just like the Purple Wings reached.
Detroit has used two of its most up-to-date first-round picks to get facilities. It is simply that Brandsegg-Nygard provides it one other potential top-six winger. And given how the Wings are at the moment arrange with their ahead depth, Brandsegg-Nygard has an excellent likelihood to interrupt onto the scene within the close to future. — Clark
Staff: Plzen (CZECHIA) | Rank: 17
DOB: 06/28/06 | Ht: 6-2.5 | Wt: 182 | Shot: R
2023-24 stats: GP: 19 | G: 0 | A: 1 | P: 1
Scouting notes: The 6-2, right-handed defenseman has been on scouting radars for years, permitting for his sport to be put beneath the microscope. He is aggressive, makes good puck choices and prompts within the play.
Shedding almost a full season of improvement throughout probably the most essential years makes for a harder analysis and mannequin projection. Jiricek’s numbers are very risky, and the draft 12 months pattern is just not massive sufficient for a assured projection. The instruments to be an impactful defenseman are there, with good reads, aggressive defensive posture, sturdy puck retrieval abilities and physicality. He wants the skating, which clearly took a developmental hit when he tore an ACL, to enhance by a step and half or two to reap the benefits of his different abilities. His stride lacks the explosive and aggressive attributes to enhance the remainder of his sport and can hinder his capacity to make the most of different abilities if he cannot preserve tempo.
He has an extended runway to develop as a result of he is inexperienced and misplaced almost a 12 months of improvement to his harm. There’s a actual likelihood he turns into a second-pairing defenseman and an out of doors shot on the high pair. — Doerrie
Staff match: The Blues actually wanted so as to add some expertise to their protection prospects — they hadn’t drafted a defenseman within the first spherical since Jordan Schmaltz in 2012 — and Jiricek is a terrific alternative. He gained nice expertise enjoying within the Czech league, and as a right-shot defenseman he is a invaluable commodity.
Jiricek won’t have the ceiling of his brother, David, who went sixth general to the Blue Jackets in 2022, however he is definitely obtained some upside. — Wyshynski
Staff: Prince George (WHL) | Rank: 30
DOB: 05/28/06 | Ht: 5-11.5 | Wt: 173 | Shot: R
2023-24 stats: GP: 68 | G: 43 | A: 62 | P: 105
Scouting notes: His manufacturing is harking back to a participant who needs to be chosen in high half of the primary spherical. His skating, like Jason Robertson’s in 2017, worries scouts. He would not have the bodily bundle of Robertson, however his manufacturing is significantly better. Parascak has all of the capabilities to be a twin menace on the NHL degree if his skating improves.
Parascak’s instincts on and off the puck are high-end. He understands defensive schemes and learn how to penetrate them, however his skating holds him again from driving play. That is evident in transition, the place he lacks the tempo to assault the center and depends on his instincts to seek out open house and arrive on the excellent time. When he will get the puck in house, he is terrifying. His catch and launch shot, one-timer and skill to shoot reverse his momentum make him difficult for goalies to cease.
A staff taking Parascak is getting a participant with an elite hockey sense and lots of pictures in his arsenal. If he can add energy and extra energy to his skating, there’s a actual likelihood he is a top-six, difference-maker within the NHL. He is unlikely to be a real play driver, however a complementary participant who can ignite an influence play. — Doerrie
Staff match: Utilizing their first-round picks to pick out top-six forwards they imagine can present a way of offensive consistency going ahead has been the plan for the Caps the previous few years. The choice to take Parascak matches inside that dynamic. Parascak was one of some forwards who might have been picked at this spot.
When the time comes, he’ll be the most recent prospect to come back by a farm system that has watched its AHL affiliate, the Hershey Bears, win Calder Cups whereas persevering with to ship the group’s homegrown abilities to the NHL. — Clark
Staff: Muskegon (USHL) | Rank: 24
DOB: 03/17/06 | Ht: 6-2 | Wt: 176 | Shot: L
2023-24 stats: GP: 61 | G: 36 | A: 32 | P: 68
Scouting notes: Boisvert can actually shoot the puck, and no matter the place he receives it, he’s a menace. He will get pucks by layers with accuracy and has glorious arms to complete performs on the internet entrance. There may be cause to imagine his misleading launch will switch to the NHL degree, but when it doesn’t, his capacity to complete performs in tight will certainly make him worthy of consideration.
With out the puck, Boisvert continues to be impactful. He tracks again properly, disrupts transition play and delivers onerous hits to separate gamers from the puck. There is a noticeable edge to his sport that may solely enhance as he will get stronger. His skating posture is off steadiness, and he lacks the explosiveness required to create more room offensively. An improved skating stride with extra energy and higher capacity to learn defensive protection will permit Boisvert to reap the benefits of his NHL-ready shot and two-way sport. — Doerrie
Staff match: The idea was that the Blackhawks would go together with a ahead right here after taking Levshunov at second general. Boisvert presents a terrific distinction to the best way Connor Bedard performs at heart — a two-way sport with some physicality. He aspires to be an Evgeni Malkin-like participant within the NHL. Not a nasty gamble for the Blackhawks to take, contemplating they have already got their Sidney Crosby. — Wyshynski
Staff: Tri-Metropolis (USHL) | Rank: 15
DOB: 02/28/06 | Ht: 6-0.25 | Wt: 156 | Shot: L
2023-24 stats: GP: 52 | G: 31 | A: 47 | P: 78
Scouting notes: On expertise and expertise alone, the mannequin initiatives him to be a top-six ahead with a good likelihood at a top-line position. There are just a few gamers with higher offensive attributes than Connelly, and they’re going to go within the high 10. He leaves lots to be desired defensively however ought to get a wholesome dose of improvement at Windfall Faculty. He’s unlikely to be a two-way participant, and that is not his type. His type is flash, sprint and pizzazz — a participant with a real wow issue.
Connelly has a number of maturing to do on and off the ice. The egocentric main and misconduct on the under-18 championship kick-started the collapse towards Canada within the gold medal sport. Fairly just a few groups have designated him as “don’t draft” due the knowledge revealed in a narrative from The Athletic. As one NHL head scout put it, “top-10 expertise, bottom-10 character. Cannot do it.”
The definition of high-risk, high-reward for all of the improper causes. — Doerrie
Staff match: There is a risk that the Golden Knights have reached the purpose that they might begin to incorporate prospects as they proceed to problem for the Stanley Cup. It is potential that drafting Connolly might work out certainly one of two methods for the Golden Knights. He may very well be a participant who works his method into the lineup as a productive winger on a team-friendly deal to assist offset a few of their wage cap points. Or he may very well be utilized in a possible commerce to assist the Golden Knights get a participant they covet.
No matter path the Golden Knights take, it’s going to include the win-at-all prices mentality that is continued to outline them. — Clark
Staff: USA U-18 (NTDP) | Rank: 9
DOB: 08/29/06 | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 195 | Shot: L
2023-24 stats: GP: 49 | G: 49 | A: 27 | P: 76
Scouting notes: Eiserman is taken into account the most effective pure scorer within the draft, although opinions about him range broadly.
His spectacular objective totals with the nationwide staff improvement program are onerous to disregard, but he usually leaves scouts wanting extra. With the most effective shot within the draft, his projection suggests he might rating 35 to 40 targets per season if he reaches his ceiling. As a younger participant within the draft, he has extra runway to enhance his decision-making and develop a well-rounded offensive sport. Whereas habits could be fastened and skating will proceed to enhance, scoring instincts and the flexibility to catch and launch the puck from awkward positions are innate, and Eiserman excels in each areas.
There are occasions he tries to do an excessive amount of with the puck, resulting in turnovers and compelled pictures — habits that may frustrate scouts and coaches. Regardless of this, his potential as a 40-goal scorer is simple if developed with persistence. The mannequin is assured he’ll produce on the NHL degree in a top-six position. Eiserman has the expertise to be an even-strength scorer, power-play asset and most significantly, a difference-maker. — Doerrie
Staff match: Go away it to Lou Lamoriello to punch consensus within the face. Cole Eiserman is without doubt one of the greatest goal-scorers within the draft, whose inventory had fallen because of criticisms of his defensive sport. The Islanders definitely wanted an infusion of high-end offensive expertise of their prospect pool. Eiserman is the embodiment of the “you possibly can’t educate offense” mindset. — Wyshynski
Staff: Chicago (USHL) | Rank: 18
DOB: 04/14/06 | Ht: 6-0.5 | Wt: 187 | Shot: R
2023-24 stats: GP: 54 | G: 33 | A: 42 | P: 75
Scouting notes: An enormous, right-handed heart who’s a twin menace within the offensive zone and confirmed one of the promising improvement curves of the season? Examine. Examine. Examine. A dynamic transitioner of the puck, Hage is a cerebral participant who picks aside defensive schemes in transition with ease. He will get the puck off the wall to the damaging areas of the ice higher than most gamers within the draft.
The deceptiveness of his shot and the array of pictures in his arsenal makes him equally harmful with and with out the puck. He can pull the puck and fireplace it by defenders as simply as he receives the puck and releases in a single movement. A heady participant, Hage understands learn how to manipulate defenders and open up capturing lanes. If he can add a step to his tempo, he’ll have the ability to reap the benefits of the compromising positions he places defenders in.
There are numerous elements of Hage’s sport that scouts love exterior of his bodily items. He wins puck battles, will get to the online entrance and makes his teammates higher. He’ll develop onerous talent by enhancing his capacity to take contact and use it to his benefit. The small print of his sport are a powerful level. He helps the puck properly, and his capacity to affect the sport will solely enhance as his skating takes a step. The mannequin sees him as a middle-six participant with an out of doors likelihood at hitting his second-line ceiling. — Doerrie
Staff match: After taking Demidov at No. 5, the Canadiens used their second first-round choose to take one other ahead in Hage. The expectation with Hage is that he might give them a two-way heart for the long run.
Hypothetically talking, the Canadiens won’t be in any rush, as they’re arrange with Nick Suzuki and Alex Newhook down the center for a minimum of three extra years. Hage will spend subsequent season enjoying on the College of Michigan which has lately developed a variety of facilities reminiscent of Matty Beniers, Thomas Bordeleau and Brendan Brisson, amongst others. — Clark
Staff: Yaroslavl Jr. (RUSSIA-JR.) | Rank: 44
DOB: 08/01/06 | Ht: 6-1 | Wt: 192 | Shot: L
2023-24 stats: GP: 43 | G: 23 | A: 30 | P: 53
Staff match: Barry Trotz goes ahead first once more, after choosing Matthew Wooden at No. 15 final season. Yegor Surin’s inventory reportedly shot up after collaborating in agent Dan Milstein’s camp in Fort Lauderdale throughout the Stanley Cup Ultimate.
He definitely matches the Predators’ id beneath Trotz and head coach Andrew Brunette of compete degree up entrance. — Wyshynski
Staff: Valerenga (NORWAY) | Rank: 36
DOB: 12/29/05 | Ht: 6-2 | Wt: 194 | Shot: L
2023-24 stats: GP: 42 | G: 5 | A: 10 | P: 15
Staff match: Solberg provides the Geese one other defensemen for the long run in a farm system wherein blueliners are in extra. They have already got Jackson LaCombe, Pavel Mintyukov and Olen Zellweger, plus Tristan Luneau. However additionally they have a pair of defenseman older than 32 in Cam Fowler and Radko Gudas.
Briefly order, the Geese might doubtlessly have 5 homegrown defensemen, or they might look to maneuver certainly one of them sooner or later if it could possibly assist them swing a deal to deal with one other space of the roster. — Clark
Staff: Barrie (OHL) | Rank: 32
DOB: 04/24/06 | Ht: 6-2 | Wt: 209 | Shot: L
2023-24 stats: GP: 67 | G: 28 | A: 34 | P: 62
Scouting notes: Mix an elite motor, good two-way play and a wholesome dose of compete, Cole Beaudoin is just a gamer. If I have been giving every draft-eligible a superlative or vibe, Beaudoin’s could be “gamer.” The mannequin is decrease on him than this rating, however the perception that he ought to turn into a bottom-six participant that checks properly, kills penalties and produce vitality to the lineup.
An enormous, sturdy participant who could also be best on the wing on the NHL degree, Beaudoin reads the play properly, will get into site visitors, wins almost each puck battle and grinds opponents down. There is no such thing as a OHL participant who enjoys going into the nook with him — and various got here out worse for put on. He is obtained the energy and need to be an impactful bodily participant within the NHL. If his skating continues to enhance, there’s cause to imagine he has the next ceiling than present projections point out. Utah will want a extra affected person method with him, however added tempo might see him leap right into a third-line position as a participant coaches belief implicitly. — Doerrie
Staff match: GM Invoice Armstrong had a treasure trove of draft picks and determined to dip into them swap with Colorado, sending the thirty eighth, 71st and the Rangers’ 2025 second-rounder to the Avalanche. That is as a result of it was broadly anticipated that the Bruins have been going to pick out Beaudoin with the following choice.
Utah will get a powerful heart who performs with bodily tenacity, a puck-swarming ahead that matches in properly on the UHC depth chart. — Wyshynski
Staff: St. Andrews Faculty (HIGH-ON) | Rank: 34
DOB: 02/21/06 | Ht: 6-6 | Wt: 210 | Shot: R
2023-24 stats: GP: 56 | G: 61 | A: 66 | P: 127
Staff match: Letourneau provides the Bruins excessive dimension down the center. The very fact he scored greater than 60 targets and 127 factors proves there’s offensive upside, too.
He’ll attend Boston Faculty beginning in 2025, so the Bruins can preserve an in depth eye on his improvement. Maybe probably the most fascinating half is that the Bruins are hoping to strike it wealthy with Letourneau given they’ve solely had 4 draft picks since 2018 who’ve reached the NHL. — Clark
Staff: Windsor (OHL) | Rank: 16
DOB: 01/01/06 | Ht: 6-2.25 | Wt: 207 | Shot: L
2023-24 stats: GP: 64 | G: 36 | A: 54 | P: 90
Scouting notes: Greentree has many attributes that scouts love — he performs in the course of the ice, sees the ice very properly, is an adept playmaker and a throwback construct within the type of an influence ahead. He ranks extremely throughout the board from his bodily sport to his hockey sense to his high-end playmaking. He lacks in an important, but most simply improvable, space: skating. Have been Greentree a mean or barely above common skater, he possible would’ve been a top-10 choose as a result of he is that good within the different areas of his sport.
Greentree was successfully a one-man present on a rebuilding Windsor staff. His manufacturing is probably going 20% higher on a staff that does not end close to the underside of the OHL standings. Not solely is he a high quality offensive driver, however he’s additionally dependable defensively. He will get himself in good positions, wins puck battles and routinely outmuscles opponents all around the ice. He is enjoyable to look at since you marvel how he’s as efficient as he’s along with his skating deficiencies.
Scouts and executives have expressed an admiration for his sport. His puckhandling, imaginative and prescient and shot make him an issue to cope with within the offensive zone. There are a number of instruments to work with and would not be the primary prospect to enhance his skating after being drafted. The issue with Greentree’s skating is that it’s sufficient of a priority in in the present day’s league that if it would not enhance, he might not have the ability to sustain. Functionally massive and expert energy wingers are onerous to seek out these days, and Greentree is strictly that. If he does add a step or two to his sport, there is a good likelihood he is a top-six level producer on the NHL degree. — Doerrie
Staff match: The Kings picked up this choose when Montreal traded as much as No. 21 to pick out heart Michael Hage. Greentree was captain of the Windsor Spitfires, and has a giant physique and a sensible offensive sport.
He joins a bunch of younger forwards with the Kings that features burgeoning star Quinton Byfield, Alex Laferriere and hopefully Alex Turcotte, who hasn’t developed as rapidly because the others. Most significantly, Liam Greentree wore No. 66 within the OHL and would routinely turn into our favourite participant if he had the audacity of sporting Mario Lemieux’s sacred digits within the NHL. — Wyshynski
Staff: Brantford (OHL) | Rank: HM
DOB: 04/12/06 | Ht: 6-0.5 | Wt: 174 | Shot: L
2023-24 stats: GP: 68 | G: 36 | A: 46 | P: 82
Staff match: It merely wasn’t sufficient to draft Levshunov and Boisvert within the first spherical. Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson traded as much as get the twenty seventh choose to take Mark Vanacker, a choice that provides to what they imagine is a shiny future.
Vanacker provides the Blackhawks a winger they might doubtlessly see on the NHL degree in just a few years. Whereas their rebuild begins and ends with Bedard, getting Vanacker means the Blackhawks have used seven first-round picks to draft forwards since 2020. — Clark
Staff: Muskegon (USHL) | Rank: HM
DOB: 03/01/06 | Ht: 6-1.25 | Wt: 182 | Shot: L
2023-24 stats: GP: 60 | G: 38 | A: 45 | P: 83
Staff match: The Flames acquired this choose within the Elias Lindholm commerce with the Canucks. Lose a ahead, acquire a ahead. Gridin led the USHL in factors with 83 in 60 video games, giving the rebuilding-and-or-retooling Flames one other sturdy offensive winger.
One other Russian participant who was spotlighted on the Dan Milstein camp throughout the Stanley Cup Ultimate, he has a giant body for an agile skater. He is College of Michigan-bound, and the Flames will gladly anticipate his abilities to sharpen within the NCAA. — Wyshynski
Staff: TPS (FINLAND) | Rank: 25
DOB: 06/27/06 | Ht: 6-0.75 | Wt: 201 | Shot: R
2023-24 stats: GP: 40 | G: 7 | A: 4 | P: 11
Scouting notes: Hemming is a enjoyable subject of debate amongst scouts. He is thought-about to have a really excessive ground and decrease offensive ceiling. The mannequin sees him becoming in fairly properly as a third-line ahead who can contribute offensively. Hemming is without doubt one of the few gamers who the mannequin predicts he has greater than an 80% likelihood of enjoying 200 NHL video games with lower than a ten% likelihood of changing into a star — true “protected” vibes.
He is a powerful two-way participant with a high quality launch that borders on being a separating talent. He can shoot off each legs, off steadiness and in lots of catch-and-release positions. He is a menace to attain from distance, will get pucks by defenders and may rating when he drives the online. He understands learn how to use contact to his benefit, wins puck battles, is in glorious spots off the puck and by no means cheats defensively. These onerous abilities ought to simply translate right into a bottom-six position, and he is possible prepared for the AHL subsequent season.
Offensively, there have been flashes of excellent puck distribution and hockey sense. Nevertheless, he’s reliant on his capturing capacity and two-way play. If he can add a step to his skating, there’s reputable upside as an influence ahead who contributes 40 to 50 factors per season, enjoying on a high penalty-killing unit and secondary power-play unit. The ceiling is not as excessive as that of different gamers, however he’s way more prone to play significant video games. — Doerrie
Staff match: Irrespective of who the Stars chosen at No. 29, the choose was going to be met with the expectation that they’d be the most recent success story in Dallas’ prospect pipeline. So the very fact they took Emil Hemming solely provides to the idea that he may very well be the following prospect who would possibly have the ability to contribute rapidly.
He had 11 targets and 18 factors in 13 video games whereas enjoying towards under-20 competitors in Finland, whereas scoring seven targets and 11 factors in 40 factors towards older competitors in Liiga, the best degree of hockey within the nation. — Clark
Staff: USA U-18 (NTDP) | Rank: 28
DOB: 03/30/06 | Ht: 6-3 | Wt: 185 | Shot: R
2023-24 stats: GP: 53 | G: 0 | A: 11 | P: 11
Scouting notes: Emery has the makings of an impactful defenseman who can anchor a second pairing. Emery is an ideal complementary piece to an elite offensive defenseman who wants a dependable companion to enhance their sport.
Emery is a high transition defenseman, whose one-on-one defensive play stands out. He maintains glorious posture, successfully makes use of his stick with information opponents, takes away passes and pokes pucks off opponent’s sticks. In transition, he maintains good hole management, would not permit attackers to beat him to the surface and forces them to relinquish the puck. When the sport wants a relaxing presence, the opponent’s greatest gamers stored off the scoresheet and a high quality defensive play, Emery is that participant. From that perspective, he’s a coach’s dream. His defensive improvement this season has me believing he’ll proceed to enhance and certain turn into top-of-the-line defenders within the draft class.
Offensively, there’s not lots there. That is not Emery’s calling card. That’s possible why the mannequin would not venture him to be greater than a second-pairing defenseman. He makes easy breakout passes and would not get caught up ice. Whereas that’s usually regarding, as an absence of offense on the junior degree results in a much less assured statistical projection, his capacity to defend in all three zones, skate properly and win bodily battles ought to make him a top-four defenseman within the NHL. — Doerrie
Staff match: There was a way forward of the draft that if the Rangers stored this choose, they have been going protection. They chose a strong one right here.
Emery is a right-handed shot who skates properly and has a powerful bodily sport with out chasing hits. He initiatives to be a top-four defenseman. It isn’t troublesome to see Emery as a protégé for Rangers standout Ok’Andre Miller on the NHL degree, and part of that blue line with youthful Rangers like Miller and Braden Schneider. — Wyshynski
Staff: Oshawa (OHL) | Rank: HM
DOB: 02/06/06 | Ht: 6-1 | Wt: 188 | Shot: R
2023-24 stats: GP: 64 | G: 1 | A: 32 | P: 33
Staff match: Buying and selling down created questions on what the Leafs would do with the second-to-last choose of the primary spherical. They answered by drafting defenseman Danford.
He offers them with a participant who might assist strengthen the blue line within the Leafs’ farm system. As a staff pushing for titles, the Leafs are up towards the wage cap annually, so having a participant who may also help within the close to future on an entry-level deal is a lift. — Clark
Staff: London (OHL) | Rank: HM
DOB: 03/30/06 | Ht: 6-1 | Wt: 178 | Shot: R
2023-24 stats: GP: 68 | G: 20 | A: 36 | P: 56
Staff match: The Oilers acquired this choose from the Flyers, who acquired it from the Panthers within the Claude Giroux commerce, so it is good to see Edmonton lastly take one thing that belonged to Florida.
Edmonton was prepared to mortgage a first-rounder in both 2025 or 2026 for O’Reilly, who earned his stripes as an incredible defender however had 56 factors in 68 video games for the London Knights final season. And that is actually the important thing right here: O’Reilly went by the Hunter brothers system in London, which means he is prepped to be an NHL participant.
Edmonton CEO Jeff Jackson, operating the hockey operations present now that Ken Holland parted methods, has at all times been a fan of London GM Mark Hunter. Suppose we’ll learn how massive that fandom is now that the Oilers want a common supervisor. Keep tuned. — Wyshynski
Spherical 2
33. San Jose Sharks: Igor Chernyshov, F, Dynamo Moscow (RUSSIA)
34. Carolina Hurricanes: Dominik Badinka, D, Malmo (SWEDEN)
35. Anaheim Geese: Lucas Pettersson, C, Modo Jr. (SWEDEN-JR.)
36. Columbus Blue Jackets: Charlie Elick, D, Brandon (WHL)
37. Winnipeg Jets: Alfons Freij, D, Vaxjo Jr. (SWEDEN-JR.)
38. Colorado Avalanche: Ilya Nabokov, G, Magnitogorsk (RUSSIA)
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