The full deal sees Colorado add forwards Soslan Tavasiyev and Patrick Baldry with Tampa Bay collecting forwards Dylan Featherstone and Marek Krakovsky plus the rights to KHL winger Joakim Andersson and QMJHL defenceman Samuel Blackburn.

Colorado Avalanche: B+ 
The money in money out trades with contenders stuck against the cap are always difficult to swing. I think Colorado did really good here to upgrade two forward slots while not creating a gap elsewhere on their squad. I know some people point towards it being a dangerous time to add as the Avs barely hold a wildcard spot but with the games in hand they have in their division they are well positioned to take advantage of this deal and chase down a top 3 division seed.

Baldry is a great two way winger who brings a lot of experience and energy to the team. His 36 points in 59 games thus far with the Lightning might feel underwhelming but I think it is fair to expect a ppg closer to his career high with Colorado as he should be rejuvenated joining a contending team.  

Tavasiyev is of a similar build; offensive talent and defensively responsible with the added touch of mean streak. Some have pointed out that he is the first Russian to join the Avs in quite a while. An important thing for me is this isn't some 18 year old kid breaking a trend and being pressured to save a franchise. Tavasiyev is a seasoned veteran and all he has to do is keep playing his game, he's built for the playoffs and all signs point towards Colorado heading to the dance.

I've left a little room for growth here, to push into an "A" grade the Avs need to take advantage of their games in hand. Getting one or both guys on a reasonable extension instead of oure rentals would help too.

Tampa Bay Lightning: B
I've said it before and I'm sure I'll say it again, its tough to see your team tearing down from a fan perspective. However, from a business perspective this is quality asset management from the Bolts. They swapped out two aging forwards that represent depleting assets quickly approaching free agency and bring in instead two warm bodies for the rest of the season and two prospects that have legit chances at being PSHL level assets for them.

No disrespect is intended towards Featherstone or Krakovsky who join Tampa mainly as salary offset for the transaction and to fill lineup spots for the rest of the season. Both of them are still quality PSHLers who were having down statistical years buried deep on the Avs depth chart. You've also got to feel for the guys as they both go from fighting for a playoff berth to joining a team not so subtly happy to lose. I have hope that in an expanded role both can bounce back and showcase themselves as potential deadline flips or at the very least help themselves for contract negotiations in the summer as both are pending free agents.

Of course, for a rebuilding team the interest is in the future assets brought in. In a bit of an anomaly for this type of trade Tampa did not collect any draft picks but instead two already developing prospects both of whom have a mix of intriguing upside and concerns.

Samuel Blackburn is a 20 year old defenseman previously selected in the third round by Colorado. After back-to-back 40+ point campaigns he has taken a step forward offensively sitting just below a point per game with 12 goals and 45 points in 46 Q games. He shouldn't be expected to see the PSHL ice for at least another year or two but projects as a solid two-way defenceman that can make quick breakouts, is sound positionally, and a team first guy. The offense isn't a complete blackhole but it is definitely his weaker end of the ice. The uptick in stats this season is a positive trend but being an overager in junoirs may explain it more than development can. He's got an outside chance to be a #4 defenceman but more likely is looking at being a bottom pairing guy on a championship level team.

The final asset brought in, and perhaps the most intriguing for Tampa Bay, is winger Joakim Andersson. Andersson was an Avs second rounder in 2044 but now 20 years old is yet to come to North America. Last season in his home nation of Sweden, he proved himself at the SHL level notching 40 points in 48 games. It still wasnt enough for the Avs to sign him leading to him signing a 3 year contract in the KHL. He's looked good in the second best league in the world currently having 35 points to his name in 56 games. Although he doesn't have any standout abilities he is an all-around solid player who looks capable of being a middle six two way forward at the PSHL level as soon as next season. The difficult part will be the final two years of his contract in Russia. If Tampa Bay can negotiate a reasonable buyout with Cherepovets Severstal then this would already look like a much better deal. It would not be the worst thing in the world for Andersson to develop another year or two in Russia but Tampa Bay potentially waiting multiple more years before seeing any value at the PSHL level from the return on the trade has me leaning Colorado on this one. 
 

Of course, outside of the PSHL many storylines have developed and the first round of the PSHL draft is continuing to shape itself. Here is the midseason mock draft ranking the current top twenty prospects.

1.  C Paden Anderson, Oshawa Generals

Paden has had a strong first half of his draft season notching 12 goals and 54 points in 35 OHL games to date. He is about a half point per game behind Beckett Evans pace last year that netted him first overall honors, I don’t think it's fair to say Anderson has done anything to warrant losing the first overall slot but I also don’t feel he has been consistently dominant enough to be running away with it. Still his combination of elite skating and puckhandling while being a right-shot center with size has him as the leader of the class at this point. 

2. D Edvin Persson, Sodertalje SK

In the last mock draft Persson held the number three slot and I noted that taking the next step against pros in the SHL could see him push for number one. It's safe to say Persson has played well above expectations as he has 8 goals and 37 points in 40 SHL games while logging nearly 22 minutes per night as a draft eligible. At this point I think Persson is closer to #1 then he is to #3 and there is a very realistic chance a team prefers him over Anderson. The only knock right now is the draft class appears to be defence heavy which may make a team more comfortable going center number one and addressing defense later in the draft. Still, if Anderson can’t take it to the next level and Persson keeps at this level its going to be hard to argue against Persson. 

3. D Kevin Lariviere, Rimouski Oceanic 

Lariviere has not had a bad draft year and still possess a lot of upside as a potential top three pick that can be a top pairing shutdown defenceman for the next decade. It was no secret that Persson - among others - project to have better offense than Lariviere but its now looking worse than it was. Lariviere has just 29 points in 39 QMJHL games, a respectable mark for sure but concern is growing that the offense will hold him back from excelling at the next level regardless of his size/defense combo. If he is not able to find some more offense for the rest of the year, he could slide outside the top five as he looks more like a project pick. The kid is a hard worker though and I think a lot of scouts will forget their offense concerns when they see him in person at the combine. 

4. C Tanner Federov, Drummondville Voltigeurs 

Federov may not have one offensive trait that jumps off the page at you but he has managed to get his offensive game to the next level. At the time of writing he sits at nearly double his point-per-game mark from the year prior while also logging significantly more minutes and improving his game rating. He might not have enough sparkle for a team to take him top five, and some still have concerns about his long-term ability as a center, but I think at pick four a team could be getting excellent value. The more I watch him play the more I like him. 

5. C Marek Kroner, Bratislava HC

Kroner has done everything right in his draft year. Despite getting sent back to the under-20 team he put his head down, worked hard, and got himself back to the men;s team after posting 10 points in 8 games. Since then he’s been quite good at the top Slovakian level logging just under 20 minutes per night, holding his own defensively, and posting 19 points in 23 games. There have been some consistency concerns though and I think some evaluation teams are worried about the D+1 development year if Kroner opts to stay in Slovakia. 

6. LW Adamie Cousson, Rismouski Oceanic 

One of the draft class’ true boom-or-bust prospects, Cousson boasts elite offensive abilities that has seen him bury 23 goals with 63 points in 40 QMJHL games thus far. Although its tough to compare their style of game, Cousson has stolen the show from Rimouski teammate Lariviere on many nights. The problem is he is at best a non-factor in his own end and often even an inconvenience for his linemates when they don’t have the puck. However, the kid is a hard worker and has reportedly been in the film room every day with his assistant coach for additional work on defense. It remains to be seen how much of a difference the work will make. 

7. C Martin Hrdlicka, Chomutov Pirati 

Hrdlicka, who originally projected as a mid to late first rounder, has announced himself as a premier player of interest in this year’s class as he’s posted 34 points in 24 games for Chomutov. Similarly to Federov, Hrdlicka doesn’t have much wow factor but he does consistently look like a pro and at some point the stats have more relevance then the assessed attributes. 

8. C Remo Weidmann, HC Davos

Weidmann is another player who has been shooting up draft boards across the league. Playing in Switzerland’s second level against men, Weidmann has an outstanding 13 goals and 43 points in 38 games. I know some are pushed away because of the competition level but the way he is dominating despite being outsized every night has been impressive. He has shown no fear battling against bigger men and has held his own defensively with increased responsibilities as he builds trust from his coach.

9.  D Artyom Mikhalkov, HK Rostov 

Ranked as the 5th overall prospect prior to the season, Mikhalkov has done well transitioning the Russia’s second tier this season. His offensive upside has been clear as he currently has 6 goals and 33 points in 40 VHL games to his name. In the best way possible, he’s managed to be forgettable defensively not standing out as a negative for the team. The off-ice concerns are growing as scouts look closer at him and I think the potential of him preferring staying in Russia is also making teams weary. Still a strong finish - and ideally a look at the KHL level - could push him back towards the top five. 

10. D Brody Newman, Camrose Kodiaks

Newman has quietly been rising on draft boards but I think now is a safe time to really talk about him as a legit top ten possibility. 25 points in 33 AJHL games while logging nearly 26 minutes a night is undeniably impressive. Looking deeper at him, Newman already approaches the rink each day like a true professional, has elite skating, and projects to have great-elite offence with above average-great defense. There is a lot to like here. 

11. C Kristoffer Lundkvist, IK Oskarshamn 

There have been some growing pains as Lundkvist transitions this year from his dominance in juniors to playing against men at the second level of Swedish hockey. His 29 points in 39 games are more than respectable but the consistency is lacking. He still looks like a relatively safe pick who you can count on to have a lengthy PSHL career but he is looking more like a 2-3 years away guy rather than a 1-2 years away. 

12. D Wilhelm Harju, Jyvaskyla Riemu 

The numbers don’t jump off the page as Harju has struggled to find his role at times playing in Finland against me where he has 13 points in 27 games. It is a tough point-per-game to look at for a beyond elite skater which naturally entices teams to think they have a dominant offensive defenceman. There are still enough offensive traits that I think that side of his game can develop more and he has utilised his skating to be an effective defender and great on the breakout even if the points have added up yet. 

13. D Zakhar Migranov, Penza Dizel

Migranov has taken a big step forward at the VHL level playing nearly 19 minutes a night with 15 points in 42 games compared to under 12 minutes per night and 3 points in 13 games he had last year. He has proven night after night that he can be an effective and physical defender without crossing the line as he has just 6 penalty minutes on the season. Of course, the usual concerns are still there for any prospect coming out of Russia but I think there is a lot of potential value in taking him around this slot and aiming to bring him overseas in his 20s. 

14. D Brandon Carnevale, Atlantic Canada Jr B

Its no secret that playing your draft year at the junior B level is going to hurt your stock. Still Carmevale has a hit-parade compilation that rivals the highlight reel of anyone in the class. As much has hockey has evolved and will continue doing so, there will always be a need for hard-hitting, physical, team first, defencemen who make opposition skill guys uncomfortable touching the puck. 

15. RW Zach Mucenski, HK Aktobe 

Mucenski has been noted as full of potential since his bantam days state side. It's nobody in the hockey world’s place to debate him continuing his early career in Kazakhstan close to family but it is impossible not to factor in his level of competition to his stats and draft stock. 28 points in 30 games as an underager against men is impressive regardless of the level and Kazakhstan has a respectable hockey history but lets not pretend this is the same as playing in Finland or Czechia. Mucenski would need to absolutely obliterate his competition for the rest of the year to make any movement with his draft stock. It’s a lovely story but it is getting harder and harder to pitch the kid playing in Kazakhstan. 

16. LW Valtteri Junnikkala, Vaasa Sport

A team might feel inclined to take Junnikkala around this slot, if for nothing else, to ensure they don’t have to play against him in a few years. In the best way possible, Junnikkala is an absolute pest for opponents and although he sometimes crosses the line he is absolutely someone you don’t want to play against at all let alone for a seven game series. His 12 points in 42 SML games don’t show it, but there is offensive upside too to pair with his above-average defensive abilities. 

17. LW Matthew Podolsky, Langley Riverman

The smooth skating sniper from the BCHL, Podolsky has a pro-level release and has been showing it off with 17 goals and 30 points in 32 games. He is definitely a pick that projects to need more development time but the BCHL pathway has proven great for that. I think the defense scares some teams into thinking he may be more of a powerplay merchant but a bit of improvement could make him a legit second liner. 

18. LW Aris Belisle, Saint John Sea Dogs

Belisle draft year has not gone according to plan in the QMJHL as he now is closer to falling outside the top twenty than cracking the top ten like the preseason mock draft had him. The stats aren’t bad (16 goals, 46 points, 44 games) but it isn’t the leap forward from his D-1 year everyone was expecting. The hardest part of prospects climbing rankings is that a good kid like Aris is sliding down. There is still time to turn it around and a lot of teams picking in the later end of the first round would be grateful for Belisle to slide down to them. 

19. LW Colten Lombardo, Quebec Remparts 

The defense first winger has logged big minutes all year long for Quebec (over 23 per night) while posting a beautiful 76 game rating. His stock is going up too as he has taken a step forward offensively to the tune of 42 points in 44 games that a lot of people weren’t expecting of him this season.  

20. RW Jessen Keimig, Wolfsburg Baren

9 points in 42 games at the top German level really doesn’t scream first round pick let alone top twenty pick. I get it is a difficult argument to make, but I believe a lot in the offensive talents Keimig has displayed. Pair that with his pro-level skating and you’ve got a really good looking prospect on paper. I think some departments are afraid he might be the proverbial two years away from being a two years away prospect but I like the build. A strong finish will hopefully justify my stance. 

Detroit Red Wings: B-

It is no secret the season Detroit are looking to have and another early selling trade will continue to move them closer towards the sweet sweet lottery pick. Another third round pick in the cupboard is never a bad thing and there is some upside to Dobrovodsky. He was a 2045 2nd rounder and has pro-level size with above average defensive tools and passible offensive tools. The downside, and its a big one, is his skating ability or should I say lack of skating ability. He could easily be a #6 and has top 4 upside but he'll never be either if the skating doesn't improve. With the tankfest in Detroit they're not going to need pros soon so moving Cherepanov with term isn't a huge deal.

P.S. You've lost one of your GM phones for trading a player you just acquired 

Vancouver Canucks: B+

Cherepanov is not going to take a nothing team to the cup but he is a piece that fits into a potential championship team very well. The 28-year-old former first round pick has this year and two more at a very digestible cap hit a shade over 2.5m. He's an elite skater with top-level offensive IQ, puck-handling, and passing. The defense isn't great but it is better than average. The offense never fully reached its potential (he is 4 years removed from his only two 50+ point seasons) but he is capable of consistent 30+ points. He also started hot in Detroit with 6 points in 9 games but expect the PPG to drop as he shouldn't be playing 20 minutes a night for Vancouver. He should slide in nice as a 3C and can plug in at 2 if needed. Both assets given up have low percentages of hitting so I lean Vancouver on this one. 

Detroit Red Wings: A+

It's no secret that the Red Wings are in a rebuild and although that doesn't mean their 0-3-1 start is any less painful for fans to watch it isn't exactly a shocking occurrence. Tanking might not be fun, but it sure is effective and Detroit's early commitment to keep the rebuild going and not see if the pieces magically click together this season will likely result in a higher ability to collect assets for the future. What they do with those assets is up in the air, but for now this is a great step forward in my eyes. 

Losing Lapointe, a career Red Wing and veteran of 643 PSHL games, is no doubt tough for fans and teammates alike but he is a pending UFA and at 28 years old was more likely than not going to hit the market and leave anyways. Detroit is holding back half of his salary which gives them more value in return and is ultimately inconsequential for them long-term. They have also taken on Gabriel Lapointe, the long-time Hab joined Carolina last season and never fit in. Detroit takes him on at 4.38 million this year and next. Although Lapointe has little value now, a fresh start with low expectations could help him rediscover his game as a capable two-way defenseman. Worst case the contract comes off your books next year anyway but best case this is a potential deadline day sell next year for additional assets. 

The Wings also added future assets in the form of a 2nd round pick and prospect D Jackson White. White was the 4th overall pick just two years ago and although cooking in the CCHL isn't exactly a great long-term outlook he still has the tools and potential that warranted such a high pick. He projects as a physical, two-way defenseman with offensive upside that can handle a top four role. There is a decent enough chance that he has the best career of all involved in the deal and for that I am all Wings on this one. 

Carolina Hurricanes: C+

Now obviously, if one team is graded an A+ it is pretty likely the other team is not making out as well on paper, but I want to be clear… this is not an automatic loss for Carolina. Lapointe, clearly didn't fit the system and they cleared his cap space for this year and next on the deal. The future assets were a lot to give up but at the end of the day potential is not a tangible asset, it may turn out to be nothing, and most importantly it doesn't matter at all if Carolina wins which they clearly believe they are capable of doing. Van Guilder is a sizable upgrade on Lapointe both in skills and fit, they also have the added benefit of renting him for essentially a full season rather than a half season traditional rental. 

Longterm this definitely gets to a ‘B’ if Detroit doesn't capitalize on their future assets or Carolina resigns Van Guilder and it easily jumps to an ‘A’ if they win the cup. But when considering the high price paid and how long the odds still remain for Carolina - or any specific team for that matter - to win the cup this season, I can't fully buy into this from the Hurricanes perspective. 

WESTERN CONFERENCE:

Anaheim Ducks: C Will Macintyre 

Macintyre, the 2042 2nd rounder, possess elite skating abilities as well as world class punk handling and passing abilities. The defense was a step beyond last year in his rookie campaign which certainly was a factor in him getting just under 14 minutes per night. Still he buried 8 goals while adding 21 assists in 80 games for a very respectable rookie campaign. I think the defence has progressed enough to let him fly offensively and with more minutes we could be looking at an 50+ point campaign.

Calgary Flames: D Pontus Lorentzon 

Lorentzon has been cooking for a while since being selected 22nd overall in 2040 by Calgary and finally looks primed to step into the PSHL. Things didn’t go according to plan last year when he came over from the KHL only to manage 1 assist in 11 games with the Flames. The offense that makes him special shined bright in the AHL with a 21 goal 74 point campaign for the Wranglers in the AHL. He’s a dark horse for the calder this year if it can click with the Flames.

Chicago Blackhawks: D Igor Parusov 

Colt Kennedy and Dylan Brown certainly fit the theme here but I want to shout out another here. Parusov, has above average skating and defensive abilities while also seemingly having some untapped offensive potential. The former first rounder has been effective for the past 3 years in the KHL and should transition well to the PSHL. He’s stuck a bit low on the Hawks deep blueline depth chart right now but a strong camp should get him a look at the top level in Chicago or elsewhere. 

Colorado Avalanche: D Trevor Chisu 

Its now or never territory for the pair of big Avalanche defencemen with draft pedigree. Chisu, the 12th pick in 2039, has 22 points in 72 PSHL games over the past two seasons. He possesses above average traits in each zone and at worst is a serviceable bottom pairing d-man but the expectations are higher for a 12th overall pick. 

Dallas Stars: C Jesper Rylander 

The 24 year old Rylander hasn’t gotten things to click at the PSHL level having suited up for just 38 PSHL games since being taken 7th overall in 2038. He’s crushed at the AHL level though posting 111 points in 88 games. If he can find his groove he is more than capable of a 50+ point season. 

Edmonton Oilers: RW Oleg Kazionov

The elite defensively minded winger was a 2040 2nd rounder. His physicality and defensive abilities make him an effective bottom six winger. He’s a team first guy that everyone seems to love and I think there is some undervalued offensive potential. Two years ago he managed just 11 points in 64 PSHL games and last year he was cut in training camp. He posted a point-per-game campaign as a Condor last season and could be a game changing 3rd liner this season.

Los Angeles Kings: LW Bogdan Ostakhov

To be a good team, you’ve got to find value in the draft outside the top picks and it looks like the Kings have really done that here. Ostakhov was a 2040 4th rounder by LA and has gotten better every year since, including taking steps in each of the last three years in the KHL. He’s coming off a career high 22 goals and 52 points in the second best league in the world, now it's time to see what he can do in the best.

Milwaukee Lagers: RW Kord Haas

The 2041 first rounder got his first cup of coffee at the top level last season posting 5 points in 14 games. The defence is still a concern but Haas is a smooth skater with elite hands who has proved himself at the AHL level with back-to-back 40+ point campaigns. 

Minnesota Wild: RW Peter Ripplinger 

Ripplinger can best be described as a firecracker, he’s fast and is one of those players that wakes up more when the game gets physical. He does have to work on not crossing the line too much that he is a detriment to his own team but he has playable defensive abilities and has better offensive play than your average third line grinder. He’s got 9 points in 27 PSHL games thus far and is an excellent candidate to break out in Minny especially as the games start to get rough. 

Nashville Predators: C Nino Wollner 

Its shaping up to be another season in Nashville with little to look forward to, Wollner represents a rare bright spot on an otherwise dark roster. The 2043 2nd overall pick played sheltered minutes last year en route to a 25 point rookie campaign. The defense is still holding him back and realistically he should be kicked out to the wing full time but without much else going on why not set him loose offensively? He’s an elite skater and was drafted with hopes of 100 point potential, lets see if he’s got it.

Portland Vipers: G Peter Hvizd

Hvizd has bounced around bit since being taken in the 5th round of the 2039 draft by the Islanders but looked really good in his first full AHL campaign last year in Salem. He went 26-9-1 with a 2.33 goals against average and a sparkling .918 save percentage. The potential here might only be a 1B goalie but he is calm, positionally sound, and looks ready to take on the backup role in a revamped Portland crease.

San Jose Sharks: D Montana Johnston 

Its no secret in a league that excels in parity and has a salary cap to keep winning you need to constantly rotate in value through your system. The Sharks are setting out for a title defence attempt and Johnston breaking out could go a long way in supporting that. The former first rounder has gotten a full PSHL season under his belt already but split last year between the PSHL and ECHL. He’s not someone who is going to wow you offensively but he is capable of efficient breakouts and above average defence.

Seattle Kraken: D Wolff Walter

Although he doesn’t quite use his size (6’2 224lbs) as much as one would hope, Walter is positionally sound in his own end, besides the offensive side is really where you hope for the breakout to occur. He is two full seasons removed from playing PSHL games, now 22 years old and coming off a career high 42 points in the AHL last season its time for Walter to take a step forward. Its likely still 3rd pairing minutes for him but he is still capable of turning out a 35+ point campaign.

St Louis Blues: RW Hendrik Tooming 

It was a bit of a wasted year of development for Tooming last season. He played in 72 PSHL games but averaged barely over 7 minutes a game posting just 6 points. He also suited up for 10 AHL games posting just 3 points. However, if you disregard the stats for the season and just look at the player, you’ve got a 20 year old above-average defensive winger who boasts elite skating abilities paired with a passing ability that few can touch. There is still room to grow too so the Blues ought to find him a role to grow in this season.

Utah Mammoth: RW Pavel Yerakov 

Yerakov got his first full season in the PSHL last season where he posted 9 goals and 18 points in 68 games. He’s posted back-to-back 30+ goal seasons in the AHL and has an innate ability to find soft spots in defensive coverage. He also has above average skating and playable defense. Any games you get out of a 5th round pick is a win, Yerakov is a man with raised expectations now and could earn a middle six role on the right team.

Vancouver Canucks: LW Dmitry Kochetkov 

Blink and you might miss him, Kochketkov has game breaking speed with above average offensive tools. The defensive just needs the slightest boost to reach a serviceable level, if it does the offense definitely has the potential to make up for defensive deficiencies. He looked good last year, netting 10 points in 19 games. 

Vegas Golden Knights: RW Justus Jablonski 

Jablonski, a former 3rd rounder in 2040, is a wrecking ball of a human being. He loves throwing around hits with his 6’4 200lbs frame and has a deceptively accurate wrister. He lost his footing and ended up with a diminished role in Henderson last season but everything about this guy screams PSHL level player to me. He is a dream player to have in your bottom six for a seven game playoff series. 

Winnipeg Jets: C Pavel Slanina

The former 2041 2nd rounder should be an easy sell for any professional hockey GM. Slanina stands at 6’7, skates incredibly well for his size, has elite faceoff abilities, and is defensively responsible. He smoothly transitioned to the AHL last season where he posted 44 points in 60 games. At 22 years old I don’t think the argument of sending him down for more meaningful minutes is warranted anymore. Just plug him in as your 4C, use the faceoff-get off when needed, and if a goalie really has your number park Slanina in front of the opposition crease.

EASTERN CONFERENCE:

Atlanta Thrashers: RW Emile Charlebois 

With his above average skating, 6’4 232lbs frame, and love for throwing big hits Charlebois could easily carve out a career as a serviceable bottom six grinder. However, I really think there is more value than that here. He has good offensive abilities paired with an elite shot and he isn’t your typical low effort powerplay trigger man. 9 goals, 19 points, and 123 penalty minutes in 92 PSHL games thus far certainly doesn’t jump off the page at you but I truly see 30+ goal potential from a guy who is already an opposition’s nightmare.

Boston Bruins: D Reid Witala

If I were to ask you to design a prototypical Boston Bruin, it may end up looking a lot like the physical, defensively stout, 6’5 237lbs Witala. He hasn’t lived up to his first round draft status thus far, but looked much improved after joining Boston from Philly last season. The offense isn’t a black hole on paper and I think a full year in Boston could let him shine.

Buffalo Sabres: RW Milan Vogeltanz 

It is no secret that Vogeltanz will make a coach’s hair go grey with the defensive lapses and I honestly can’t say it looks like that will ever really change for the 24 year old. However, there are certain things in sports you can’t teach, Vogeltanz’s ability to find space to shoot in the offensive zone combined with his electric release looks like 30+ goal potential on paper. He’s a solid skater too and if a way can be found to minimize his defensive zone time while increasing his offensive zone time we could be looking at an underrated goal scoring machine.

Carolina Hurricanes: C Jaret Cotey

Who doesn’t love an underdog story? Cotey was a 4th round pick way back in 2035 and spent 6 years in the AHL before debuting at the top level for Boston. He took a step back from his 31 point rookie campaign putting up 29 points last season and now finds himself in a new organization where he may be able to thrive. Cotey has an elite hockey IQ that helps make up for his lackluster skating and has good-to-great offensive abilities across the board, The now 28 year old is unlikely to get above a bottom six role but I don’t think its impossible for him to crack the 40 point threshold.

Columbus Blue Jackets: G Magnus Korhonen 

Korhonen has suited up for 185 AHL games for Cleveland since the Jackets selected him in the 2040 4th round. Now it's time for the 22 year old to take the next step and the path looks open for him to take the backup role in Columbus this season. He may not be your modern day 3rd defenceman goaltender who starts the breakout but he is a strong puck stopper with an impressive ability to get to the 2nd or even 3rd chance in flurries. 

Detroit Red Wings: D Macoy Stead

The former 14th overall selection has developed steadily since being drafted including back-to-back impressive seasons for Grand Rapids while importantly taking on a bigger defensive role last season. He’s a dynamic puckhandler that opens up a lot of possibilities offensively and is looking to take a big step forward this season. 

Florida Panthers: LW Jason Cook

The Panthers have quite a few pending free agents entering the year that will undoubtedly be complicating their finances moving forward. That makes all the more important that they find value on cheaper contracts and Cook, a former 4th rounder, is a great candidate for that. Few work as hard as he does or have the bravery to put their bodies on the line like Cook. Add to that above average hands and serviceable defensive play and you may have an ideal modern day grinder. 

Montreal Canadiens: D Rodney Laprade 

The Montreal blueline is a tough spot to try and carve out minutes right now so I’m not sure if Laprade needs a change of scenery to really have a chance at a breakout but I do believe the pieces are there. He is a mean, physical d-man with an underrated ability to help offensively, keeping pressure on opponents with an effective mind to keep the cycle going or find a lane to the net.

New Jersey Devils: C Rylan Coalter 

The 2043 7th overall pick opted to forgo his final two years of NCAA eligibility and instead turn pro to join the Devils organization for the upcoming year. He might not play physically, but he is effective defensively, a great skater, and has offensive upside as both a goal scorer and playmaker. I think a lot of people are expecting Coalter to at least start the season in the AHL but I believe he is ready to be a difference maker in New Jersey this season. 

New York Islanders: C Rayyan Comeau 

Comeau has proved all he needs to prove in the AHL over the past three years including a career high 36 goals and 86 points last season. He is a proven leader with all the signs of becoming an effective middle six center. Its going to be tough for the Islanders to find space to grow him into that role but I do believe Comeau is capable of third line duties at the PSHL level. 

New York Rangers: G Ryan St-Jean 

I get it, he’s not the prettiest goalie to watch and there will be frustrating moments but few goalies can get even close to stopping some of the 2nd or 3rd chances St-Jean makes look easy. After 3 straight years of a save percentage over .900 in the ECHL he has proven himself at the AHL level posting back-to-back .911 save percentage seasons in a large 103 game sample. I’m not sure where he can find a space in a tandem at the PSHL level but I do believe he is ready to take that step. 

Ottawa Senators: D Eddie Scharer

The former 3rd rounder has been a steady force in the top Swiss flight for several years and has now made the jump to North America. It's a bit of a long shot for a smooth transition straight to the PSHL but Scharer is solid defensively and has good puck touches in the offensive zone. The Sens are in a development season and giving a chance to Scharer might be worth it. 

Philadelphia Flyers: LW Erik Jacques 

On paper - big, physical, good defence, great skating, and borderline elite offense - Jacques should have clicked by now. For whatever reason, he hasn't been in Philly yet with a respectable but underwhelming 32 points in 72 games spread over two years with AHL stints both seasons. At 21 and in the final year of his ELC, it is put up or shut up time for Jacques.

Pittsburgh Penguins: C Riley Clackson 

The 60th overall pick in 2042 had a bit of a transition period in his first AHL campaign after 3 straight 100+ seasons in the Q but still managed a respectable 34 points in 75 games including a strong finish. It might not begin at the start of the season, but I believe by the end of it Clackson has a good chance of solidifying himself as a PSHL regular. 

Quebec Nordiques: D Daniil Kobelev

The Russian workhorse is a solid defender and dynamic offensively while also standing as a physical presence on the back end. The Nordiques have been patient with him since taking him 45th in 2039. He worked his way up to 3 straight KHL seasons before making the jump to the AHL where he dominated to the tune of 14 goals and 62 points in 74 games. He might not get the same love or have the same shine as a younger rookie but I see a serious rookie of the year candidate.

Tampa Bay Lightning: C Artyom Maltsev

Much like Kobelev, Maltsev dominated in the AHL last season after coming over from the KHL. Following three solid but unspectacular KHL season, the offensive tools clicked when he jumped to Syracuse notching 44 assists and 56 points. He’s strong on the draws and the boards with electric speed and top six offensive traits. 

Toronto Maple Leafs: RW Connor Brine

He might not have the ‘wow’ factor but Brine is an old school power forward who puts his head down and gets to the net, hockey teams will always need guys like him. The former 4th rounder had been solid in the minors for three years after leaving the OHL but didn’t exactly click as a Leaf last year posting 8 points in 40 games. I think another year stronger and with experience under his belt, it could be a big step forward for Brine.

Washington Capitals: D Ignaty Namestnikov 

Namestnikov, the 100th pick in 2040, proved himself at the top Czech level before returning to his home nation for the past two seasons in the KHL. He took a step forward offensively last season jumping from 18 to 29 points despite playing about a minute-and-a-half less per game. I promise you though, that is not the most exciting part. Namestnikov is an old-school open ice hitter who wows the crowd nightly with a physical spectacle. 

Ottawa Senators: A-

It is no secret that Ottawa is in a rebuilding phase and that this upcoming season, similar to last year's, will be a hard one for fans to watch. However, if you're going to be losing hockey games anyways, why not weaponize your cap space and collect assets to make your rebuild that much stronger. Almost 8m against the cap for three more years is a lot to take on but with the cap at an even 100 million, 8 is not as daunting as it once was. Important for me here too is the player Ottawa has taken on in Berthiaume is not a negative value asset. To me Berthiaume, who has 283 points in 607 PSHL games over the past eight seasons as a Capital, is still a very serviceable number 4/5 and powerplay quarterback on a lot of teams. Add to that that he is likely going to be seeing more ice time and powerplay minutes in Ottawa and he has a chance to put up some strong offensive numbers. He may not reach his career high 17 goals and 64 points that he is now 4 years removed from but he should easily pass the 20 point mark from last season. A strong year or two in Ottawa could even convince a contender to add him with salary retained which would fetch Ottawa even more assets. Even if it doesn't go well in Canada's capital for Berthiaume, the 3 year contract will be set to expire just as Ottawa is (theoretically) exiting their rebuild. Very low risk, very high reward deal for Ottawa netting a first and a third here.

Washington Capitals: C+

Like I said, I get why these deals happen and clearly Washington felt the need to get out of the contract right now which to me hints at a potential additional move looming. With that said, if you don't overcommit term and money in the first place then you don't have to waste assets to get out from contracts. Sure that's easier said than done but would I really be a journalist if I didn't criticize. The first and third are a steep price, I like that they're both for this seasons draft minimizing the risk of them being higher picks but still I'm a draft and develop guy and there is a lot of potential value in those picks. Pesonen isn't a bad throw in, the 22 year old was a 7th round pick and spent the past two years in Switzerland after leaving his home nation of Finland. He has some offensive upside but I don't think its big enough to offset the mediocre defensive abilities and the skating is a big concern. Still he is a decent depth add and is cheap at just 905k this year and next. I need to see Washington take advantage of the new found cap space to even break even on this trade but for now it looks like an L to me. 

Montreal Canadiens: B+

Woodward is a serviceable 3C who can fill in as 2C in a pinch. He's elite on the faceoff dot but otherwise average defensively. Additionally he is a good skater, hard worker, and holds offensive upside playing best when he utilizes his size. He's played in all but 9 games over the past 5 seasons for Montreal posting 128 points in 401 games. His role has decreased in each of the past three seasons for Montreal but don't be fooled, there is 40+ point upside here.   

Quebec City Nordiques: B

Hassan, standing at a powerful 6'5 and 201lbs, appears to have the inside track at the #6 role for the Quebec blueline but could find himself as a number 7 rotating d-man if he doesn't have a strong camp. That's nothing against Hassan but rather an acknowledgement of the Nordiques depth, he could be a quality number five or serviceable four on a lot of teams. In 42/43 it looked like Hassan had broken out when he posted 11 goals and 46 points while playing over 24 a night for Montreal. In each of the past two seasons he has posted 30 or less points while playing about 8 minutes less per night. 

It could be great depth for a Quebec team hoping to make a deep playoff run or it could be a step that allows Quebec to dangle a top four d-man in another deal to add value in another spot. The clearer role for Woodward has me giving Montreal the edge.

Quebec City: A

The Nordiques have shipped  D Asnu Eskelinen and their own 2048 2nd to the Flyers. In return, the Nordiques have added LW Filip Levander. Levander is 23 years old posting back-to-back 50+ point years in the AHL earned him a spot at the top level with Philly last year. He never found his groove getting just under 12 minutes a night for 19 points in 68 games. The former first rounder boasts top tier skating and has electric puck handling. Combine that with his elite vision and what I feel is underrated goal scoring and you should have a legitimate top six winger. Unfortunately, he wasn't able to achieve that last season and Philly doesn't seem to think he can. Quebec believes in him and so do I, if it all click this could be a point-per-game add for the Nordiques. 

Philadelphia Flyers: A- 

The Flyers don't believe in Levander, even though I do, I can't fault their decision making. You can't argue against flipping an aging asset that you don't believe in and may lose for free on waivers this season let alone for two solid chips. The second round pick should continue resetting the clock in the Flyers farm team and Eskelinen isn't just a throw in either. The 21-year-old is a smooth skater who many believe has potential game breaking offensive abilities. The effort level and talent in his own end is what holds him back the most. If he can get the defense respectable enough I think he is good enough offensively to make up for it. He took time to adapt to the AHL last season but still posted 25 points in 51 games. I don't think Winnipeg gave up on him - they really like Levander - but Philly has a vision for him and it could include PP2 time at the top level this year. 

I lean Quebec ever-so-slightly on this one just because they're getting the more immediate help. 

1.  C Paden Anderson, Oshawa Generals

Anderson holds the current number one spot but certainly doesn’t have it on lock the way Beckett Evans did last year, or at least not yet. Anderson has beyond elite skating, is one of the best puckhandlers in the class, and by all accounts is a hard working, team-first guy. He posted 15 goals and 35 points for London last season, certainly good numbers but not good enough yet to close out the other options at the top or to escape criticism of his defensive play. He’s not bad defensively but he definitely needs to improve as he grows, especially if he is going to remain a center at the next level. Even if he kicks out to the wing, there is 100+ point potential here. It might not be fair to a seventeen-year-old but the bar for success this season is pure domination from Anderson. 

2. D Kevin Lariviere, Rimouski Oceanic 

Already towering over opponents at 6’6 and weighing in at 216lbs at just seventeen has scouts mouths watering at the thought of what Lariviere could become. He plays an old-school rough, mean game and has elite defensive abilities. He held his own in the Q at sixteen, logging third pair minutes with a 58 game rating while posting 12 points and 43 penalty minutes in 41 games. There are some concerns about his skating, but he uses his size well to make up for his feet, sometimes being too slow. Of course, this will get exposed more at the next level but skating is also one of the most teachable attributes. Even at first overall, it'll be easy to be tempted to lock down an anchor on the blueline for the next decade plus.

3. D Edvin Persson, Sodertalje SK

A much more balanced build than Lariviere, Persson has great defensive abilities and although they’re not quite at the same level as Lariviere, Persson has much better offensive bones and the potential to grow into an elite  PP1 two-way defenceman. His skating is much better and he is already an absolute workhorse at seventeen. Persson has already gotten a taste of pro hockey playing against men in the SHL for 11 games last year where he posted a respectable 51 game rating. Taking the next step as an SHL d-man should easily solidify his place in the top five and gives him a legit shot at landing first overall.

4. C Marek Kroner, Bratislava HC Slovan

He may be the dark horse of the four, but Kroner is the last prospect I currently feel has a legitimate, realistic path to being taken first overall. Kroner has good skating and puckhandling skills while having one of the best offensive IQs of the class and elite playmaking abilities. Importantly, he is no slouch on defense either carrying strong bones and a projection to be a true center capable of starting in all zones and even killing penalties. He’s opted not to leave his home nation of Slovakia thus far which complicates the chance due to quality of competition. He has already had a taste of the top level in Slovakia and will need to play very well at that level to have a chance at number one. 

5. D Artyom Mikhalkov, HK Rostov

The offensive defenceman out of Russia is a capable defender too and standing at 6’2 once he puts on some weight he’ll have a pro level body. He posted an impressive 73 game rating while posting 37 points in 38 games playing at the under-18 level. A successful jump to the VHL or perhaps even the KHL would solidify him as a top five pick. The biggest draw back right now is he isn’t exactly a team-first guy. 

6. C Tanner Federov, Drummondville Voltigeurs

Federov is an extremely hard worker who put up an impressive 29 points in 40 QMJHL games last season as a sixteen year old. He’s quick on the draw but will need to improve in other defensive areas to stay at center long term. None of his offensive traits jump off the page at you but if he can improve on his number in his draft year it could entice a team to take him top five. 

7. C Kristoffer Lundkvist, IK Oskarshamn

Lundkvist is an all-around capable center who is team first and has a mean edge to his game. He dominated the U16 level last year with 22 goals and 60 points in just 28 games. He looks primed to join the senior team this year and a smooth transition should see him earn a top ten selection. 

8. LW Aris Belisle, Saint John Sea Dogs

Belisle is a solid skater with capable offensive tools for his age who is more than happy to bleed for his team. Last year in his D-1 season he put up an impressive 25 goals and 51 points in 68 Q games. If he takes a step forward statistically this season it will be hard to deny his draft position. 

9. D Zakhar Migranov, Penza Dizel

The 6’5 russian is an all around well built defenseman who projects rather safely to be a top four two-way defenceman at the PSHL level. He already debuted for 13 VHL games and should easily solidify his play at the level while maintaining an outside shot at reaching the KHL this season. 

10. D Wilhelm Harju, Jyvaskyla Riemu

Harju is not only one of if not the best skating defenceman in the class but he rivals any member of the class with his skating abilities. Add onto that that Harju has capable offensive and defensive tools making him an easy projection to play at the PSHL level. 

Honourable Mentions:

RW Zach Mucenski is a high potential winger with good skating and offensive tools. Its an odd path to the PSHL as the American born Mucenski has been raised in Kazakhstan where he is playing at the top level. He posted 29 points in 54 games last year but will need godly numbers this season to crack the top ten with the level of competition he is facing.

D Brandon Carnevale is a big, mean, hard-hitting machine. His skating is a bit mediocre and the offense might be a void at the next level but you can’t teach the tools he has and he is built for the playoffs. Currently at the Jr B level will harm his draft stock unless he has an incredibly strong season. 

G Antoine Vaillancourt is looking to take the next step this season in the Q with Halifax. He’s raw and not necessarily a significant step ahead of the multiple other goalies in his range but he is 6’7 and you can’t teach size especially in the crease. He had a solid 12-5-0 record last year but will need to improve on his .887 save percentage.

I think an easy place to start any trade breakdown is looking at who got the single best asset in the deal. For this swap, that is clearly the Bruins who add Wilhelmsson. The Swede’s 6’6 frame helps him take up most of the net by default and he combines his ideal size with elite reflexes and rebound control. He hasn’t posted a season save percentage below .906 since his sophomore campaign in Minnesota and has a career save percentage of .909 to go with 223 wins in 431 games between Minnesota and Quebec. The trade doesn’t come without risk; Wilhelmsson is 31, has 4 more years at a hefty 9.21m cap hit, and has a no-move clause that he waived to join Boston. Regardless, the Bruins are adding a top-tier goalie in a clear win now move and did not have to give up significant value to do it. Plus, the Bruins were a game away from winning it all just a few weeks ago, upgrading in goal could be the difference maker next season. 

Quebec City Nordiques: C+

Don’t get me wrong, I get the allure of moving the veteran goalie on a big contract before he regresses too far to move the contract at all. It just seems like a really odd time to do it. The Nordiques are coming off being upset in the first round after winning the Atlantic division and now they’ve downgraded goalies giving the better goalie to a division rival who was second behind them in the division. Ondrej Kamenicky is 32 and boasts great agility allowing him to make saves he has no business making, however, that comes with frustration as he is semi-regularly beaten on direct shots up high. He is coming off a strong .916 save percentage in a smaller sample of 37 games and holds a career .908 across four teams. Preston Sullivan meanwhile is 31 and has just 61 PSHL games to his credit where he holds an ugly .883 save percentage. The third round pick is a wash at this point in time. The Nordiques do save money this year, and with both goalies added set to be free agents next offseason they appear ready to pass the torch to younger goalies in their system over the next two years. However, its a tough one to swallow for fans hoping for a division title repeat as without further moves the Nordiques appear to be worse off for the upcoming season. Don’t forget, goalies are voodoo though so this one won’t be decided until action on the ice is complete. 

Each of D Yannick Kohler (9th to Phi), D Aleksandr Yemelin (16th to NJ), RW Justin Bleackley (19th to Col), LW Maksim Mazurkov (30th to NJ), D Crosby Comeau (34th to Edm), and LW Jakub Rendl (36th to Buf) were not given first round grades in the final first round mock draft. Getting drafted at any point is a huge honor but getting your name called in the first round, particularly when it may not have been expected, is a special honor. Congratulations gentlemen, prove me wrong. 

Loser: Philadelphia and New Jersey

It's no secret that there is a large variance in player assessment across thirty-six different scouting departments and my own projections. Of course, I don’t expect a mock draft to be followed to a tee, but it's a tough look for these two teams. Philly, on a day they made a trade indicating a tear-down rebuild, stretching off the board at 9th overall and New Jersey double dipping off the board in the first round is questionable. I respect trusting your own evals and for the sake of the teams, I hope I was wrong with mine.

Winner: Calgary Flames 

I can only imagine the tension in the Calgary draft room as their pick approached. When it was finally their turn with pick number eight, Calgary selected D Easton Gillard. Gillard was projected to go 4th overall and although the 3-7 picks were in a similar tier for the class, getting a guy 4 slots later than projected represented the best value pick in the top ten. Flames fans can get excited about this one. 

Loser: Nashville Predators

I really don't have anything against this year's top goalie prospect Jean-David Masse but its hard for me to get past the subpar stats. I felt iffy even giving in to the potential believers and ranking him 8th, for Nashville to take him 6th on an auto pick no less is a tough break. 

Winner: Ottawa Senators  

I'm a big believer in taking the best player available any time you're on the clock to draft whether its the first round or the seventh. Naturally, as teams draft for needs or go down lists to trust their scouts, the picks open up a bit. The biggest value selection from my first round mock draft came from the Sens when they selected D Lucas Ginnell 49th overall. I had Ginnell going 27th meaning Ottawa improved 22nd picks on slot value for this add. 

Other good slot value picks included St Louis selecting RW Ryan Rintoul 47th overall (-16), Philadelphia selecting D Silvio Huber 32nd (-11), and Boston taking LW Carl-Henrik Finnila 35th (-10) 

(Potential) Loser: Risky picks 

On the other end of the spectrum from the above value picks where teams took player below their slotted value, there is of course the teams that stretched the most. The largest stretch came from Milwaukee when they selected LW Aeric Bennett 23rd overall, 12 slots above his value. However, perhaps the riskiest pick from slot value goes to Utah who took LW Josh Hermary 11 slots above value when they selected him 15th overall. 

Winner: PSHL Fans 

We are nearing the end of another exciting draft with each fan base getting new prospects to dream about. Additionally 252 young men will have their names called taking the next step in their journey to the pros. The attention now turns to the looming free agency. 

Chicago Blackhawks: B+

Chicago had a strong regular season totaling 100 points earning second in the Central Division and home ice advantage in the first round against the Milwaukee Lagers. Of course, the first round exit falling to the Lagers in six was not good enough for the Hawks' brass and they wasted no time to get aggressive and find some upgrades.  Depth is essential in the playoffs and both adds should help in the area to alleviate the pressure on the starts to preform over a long series.

Dylan Brown is a 22 year old big winger (6'4, 201) who boasts elite senses at both ends of the ice. He's a hard worker and is incredibly strong on his feet. There is draft pedigree here to as the Leafs selected him 18th in 2040. He spent the past two seasons bouncing between the PSHL and AHL, last season he lit up the minors with 28 goals and 70 points in 61 games but couldn't find his game with Philadelphia notching just 4 points in 18 games He projects to slot into the middle six and has a real chance to bloom in a much better situation than Philly. 

Colt Kennedy 23 year old giant on the blueline standing at 6'7 and weighing in at 237 pounds. He uses his size well and is consistently effective in his own end while being unbeatable at times. The offense is not a non-factor but it does need to take a step forward to merit top four minutes. Similar to Brown, Kennedy has first round draft pedigree as he was selected 14th in 2040 by Minnesota. Continuing the similarities, he split his time between Philly and Leigh Valley over the past two seasons with 6 points in 33 PSHL games thus far. 

Skeptics will point out both guys were used as AAAA guys this year on Philly team that was 8th worst in the league and are also running out of development years. However, Chicago is a much healthier place to be and both guys could step in to huge roles on a playoff team. Its a large price to pay for two players that aren't proven but its the price of business and you've got to respect an aggressive GM getting his guys and not waiting around. Plus, if it goes south and the future firsts are lottery picks, you're probably not the GM anymore anyways so it's someone else's problem.

Philadelphia Flyers: A-

After a season in which the Flyers rated near the bottom of the league in both special teams as well as goals for and against, it shouldn't be a surprise to anyone that the rebuild is in full effect. You can make the argument that having both Brown and Kennedy bouncing between leagues and not getting a proper chance to showcase their abilities is bad asset management. Even if that is true, turning them into two future firsts and a second round pick in the ongoing draft is great value for the assets. If you don't believe in the player, why not get value now before needing to pay them on bigger contracts?

The only down side is for the fans as it looks like even with some talent on the roster, Philly management are happy to play the long game and build a potential dynasty. Obviously no Flyers fan will be complaining when the team is competitive but it is dark years ahead. 

Don’t overthink it, this kid is the real deal and there is a reason he is the consensus number one pick. He’s an elite puck handler and passer with a pro-level shot. He’s also no slouch in the defensive end and projects as a franchise number one center. Still not sold? He’s also one of the draft’s hardest workers and has been a leader since his bantam days. Make the pick. 

2. RW Jiri Cejka, Prerov HC

Cejka may be the smallest step behind Evans (defensive game, lack of premier position) but he is a hell of a consolation prize. He played against men this year at the top level of Czechia hockey and dominated to the tune of 29 goals and 63 points in 47 games played. He boasts an elite shot and a creative mind in the offensive zone. At worst you’ve got an elite power-play trigger man while having seriously potential to be a league leader in goals for many years.  

3. D Jaret Lachance, Flint Firebirds

6’5, physically dominant, defenceman, who posted 25 goals and 97 points in 62 regular season games before adding an additional 37 points in 21 playoff games… need I say more? Lachance, who was already projected to be a first round pick as a big, physical, two-way d-man, took an astonishing step forward this year offensively while remaining defensively stout, logging over 25 minutes a night.  

4. D Easton Gillard, Owen Sound Attack

Gillard is a beast who is the definition of designed for the playoffs. He is elite defensively, blocks more pucks than his goalie some nights, and is a physical force to be reckoned with who will do anything to help his team win. The only knock compared to Lachance is the offense (Gillard had 39 points in 61 regular season games) but even then a lot of teams might have Gillard as the #1 defenceman in the class 

5. C Ondrej Kacklik, Ceske Budejovice

There is a not zero chance Kacklik could go as high as 2nd overall, he is a right handed shot center with serious top 6 potential and could end up as a 2C on a dominant team. He is a smooth skater with capable defence and offense that posted nearly a point-per-game (43 in 48) while playing against men. Rumors have it he’s a bit of a “me first” player which lets him slide to fifth.

6. LW Jake Falk, Kitchener Rangers

I get it, the defensive reads are not good and even the effort in his own end is bad at times. But… hear me out. Falk buried 54 goals with 55 assists for 109 points in 63 games played, the offense is truly elite. Whomever drafts him will have their frustrating moments but it will all be worth it when he dangles around a defender and scores an amazing goal. 

7. D Colby Lemiski, Guelph Storm

If Gillard is the defensive d-man and Lachance has the elite offense, Lemiski is the perfect in-betweener with some of the best of both worlds. Analytics have him with a nearly impossible 92 game rating with 51 points in 59 games and not much help around him. He’s young for the draft and with another year of development (either traded or with an improved Guelph team around him) the counting stats should better reflect his true talent/potential.  

8. G Jean-David Masse, Chicoutimi Sagueneens

Its easy to argue against this selection and I understand people having Masse fall lower, his stats are meh even for junior hockey (.892, 3.02) and he took a step back statistically this season with less talent around him. But there is a reason his name has been as high as any at points in this draft cycle and it starts with elite positioning. He is in the right spot often before shooters are even ready and makes the first save at an elite level. It looks bad when you queue up highlights and see the red light on behind him but watch in practice or warm up, a puck rarely gets past him. With a solidified pro-level defence around him, he has the potential to be an elite goalie for a long time.

9, D Brooks MaCleod, Rimouski Oceanic 

Easily the biggest disappointment for the pre-season top 10 prospects, MacLeod is an elite skating 5’10 defenceman who supposedly carries elite offensive abilities. Things never clicked for him in Rimouski this year and he posted just 39 points in 68 games. There is still a lot of potential here, but he looks to be at least a couple of years away from even having a chance at being an impact defenceman at the top level. 

10. D Aku Mannikko, Kaarina HC Indians

The Finnish defenceman is an absolute workhorse. He posted 52 points in 46 games while averaging twenty-three and a half minutes a night while frequently pushing 30 minutes in high leverage matchups. He’s got above average offence, capable and improving defence and is one of the best athletes in the class. He might not be the sexiest pick but he should be a very capable top four defenceman. 

11. LW Yannick Ouellet, Sherbrooke Phoenix

Ouellet often towers over his peers in the Q standing at 6’3 but is not your stereotypical big-man. He sees the game well at both ends, enjoys throwing his weight around, and boasts a powerful accurate shot that gives him serious 40+ goal potential. He also took a massive leap forward here and a GM with some recency bias might take him even higher after watching his 45 goal, 99 point, 105 penalty minute season. 

12. C Linden Breau, Ottawa 67s

Nabbing a 25 goal, 75 point, right handed center, who is team first, a smooth skater, and won over 60% of his faceoffs sounds like a dream come true. So ranking him twelve means theirs a catch right? Of course, but it's not really Breau’s fault, he got some easier matchups this year playing second fiddle on the 67s with Evans ahead of him. Evans should be a lock to go pro making Breau’s D+1 season perhaps more important than this one was for him. He will either take a step forward and show he deserved a top ten spot or regress and make his new GM look bad. 

13. LW Kenton Peters, Coquitlam Express

The numbers look good on Peters, 25 goals and 67 points in 58 games with just 14 minutes a night to make it happen is a solid line for the draft slot. The drag is, he did it at the BCHL level leaving many scouts and GMs concerned the lower level of competition boosted his stats. He doesn’t wow with size (5’11, 187lbs) and doesn’t really have any standout traits. He is a raw, moldable asset with a lot of room to grow but projects needing at least two to three years of development. It's a tough pick for a GM to make because you very well may be selecting a great asset for your replacement to enjoy. 

14. D Matus Szabo, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies

Much like Breau, Szabo’s draft stock suffers from a factor largely outside his control that being the sample size. It's hard to get scouted playing under-16 hockey in Slovakia as Szabo did a year ago. Undoubtedly this was a factor in his decision to leave home and join the QMJHL for this past season. Only a year out of U16/with North American scouts watching would be enough to effect a players draft grade for too small of a sample size, but it was ever worse for Szabo who was able to suit up for just 31 regular season games due to injuries. He was a point-per-game and stands at 6’4 allowing him to easily look like a pro-level top-4 d-man. He will need some time to put on some weight, and some scouts fear he’ll be an offensive liability at the next level, but he could also be a steal of the draft. Truly a boom-or-bust selection for whichever GM makes it and the part of the draft board that gets wide open. 

15. C Tyson Walter, Moncton Wildcats

The draft board opens up here and a lot of teams could go in different directions. For me, Walter is the go to pick as he has the highest floor out of any players outside the top ten. He seems like as close to a sure thing as you can get in this range for a player that will play PSHL games. He had an intriguing draft year with 83 points and 161 penalty minutes in 68 Q games, if the offense keeps developing you’ve landed a top six center, worse case scenario, you’ve got a wrecking ball of a third line center who is built for the playoffs. 

16. C Yanic Talbot, Charlottetown Islanders

A 47 goal, 127 point campaign during his draft year in the Q has set up Talbot as a true boom-or-bust pick. On paper, with his stats and 6’2, right shot build he appears to be very similar to Walter. Underneath the hood is telling a much different story. Despite good defensive bones, Talbot doesn’t actually play like a 6’2 200+ pound man. He plays much smaller and leaves lots to be desired when battling in the corners or in front of the net. Relying on his skill has worked for him at the junior level but it may not at the next level. He certainly has the top six potential, one could even argue he has the offensive touch to be a potential #1 center, but his lack of physicality puts his floor much, much, lower than that of Walter. 

17. C Michal Gajdos, Vancouver Giants

37 goals and 93 points is nothing to scoff at and Gajdos has a great physical aspect to his game as well albeit occasionally losing his cool as he racked up 154 penalty minutes as well. He’s got an all-around solid build and could easily be interchanged with Talbot or Walter. However, I've heard enough rumblings about his offensive stats being inflated by teammates causing concern for how it plays at the next level, as well as at least one team executive who thinks Gajdos’ future isn’t as a center, for me to leave him below the other two.  

18. LW James Sabey, Drummondville Voltigeurs

35 teams are going to hate this young man, one team will absolutely love him though and for me it is worth the 18th slot to make sure its not my guys having to face this pest. Sabey is one of the strongest, most physical players in the draft. He plays his best in chaos and gets under opponents’ skin like few do in this age. An old-school grinder who projects as a 3rd liner isn't the sexiest pick but in a few years when your defencemen are getting run over on every dump in during a seven game series, its a pick you wish you made. 

19. D Lukas Huber, HC Fribourg-Gotteron 

The 6’3 right shot defenceman from Switzerland puts an end to the run of forwards. In addition to his pro-level size and coveted right-handed shot, Huber had an impressive season putting up 32 points in 30 games at the U-18 level. Many scouts, myself included, would’ve liked to have seen him play against men this season. I think if he did we’re talking about a potential top-ten selection. However, the fact that he didn’t is going to give a GM a great value pick in this range. Huber projects as a #4 two-way defencemen with shutdown defensive capabilities.  

20. C Tommy Allansson, AIK

In typical european draft year fashion, Allansson bounced between the pro and junior levels dominating against his age group (33 points in 35 games) while struggling to find the ice against men (10:34 per game). He has strong defensive and offensive bones and projects as a strong middle six center. 

21. D Silvio Huber, HC Lugano 

The cousin on Lukas, Silvio stands at 6’5 while possessing a strong stick and the ability to make a good first pass. Unlike Lukas, he did play at the top Swiss level posting 18 points in 49 games holding his own against men. The biggest concern is the foot speed which will need to improve to reach his 2nd pairing potential. 

22. RW Carter Gagnon, Summerside Western Capitals

Gagnon is a big power forward and knows how to use his size, he loves parking himself in front of the net, screening the goalie, and cleaning up loose pucks. He also holds good skating given his size and is capable in his own end. Playing against higher competition than the MAHL would’ve helped his stock but regardless Gagnon holds the potential of an impact middle six winger.

23. C Hunter Wake, Halifax Mooseheads

Put him in a phone booth and Wake can dangle his way out with ease, the problem? Despite Wake measuring in at 6’3 and 216 pounds he may not bump into you in the phone booth - he is a frustratingly non-physical player to watch at times. He had a strong year for the Mooseheads posting 85 points in 68 games. If he hits, it could be a steal for a top six center, if not you’re looking at a bottom six winger who doesn’t use his size enough to be in the bottom six. 

24. C Riley St John, USNDTP

The speedy center from San Diego projects to be top tier bottom six center who can plug and play across all special teams and likely on the wing in the top six if needed. 61 points and 118 penalty minutes in 64 games doesn’t do him justice. If you’re not sold on the kid, ask his teammates about him. To a man they recognize him as a team first warrior.

25. LW Carl-Henrik Finnila, Forssa FPS

Finnila is one of the top athletes of the class and dominated the combine including in comparison to fellow speedster St John. He has solid offensive tools despite posting just 12 points in 48 games at the second level of Finnish hockey. His defense leaves a lot to be desired and some have concerns about effort level but at the end of the day, you can’t teach speed. Its a risky pick but its rare to get top six potential in this slot and Finnila has it.

26. LW Josh Hermary, Pembroke Lumber Kings

This is one I can’t buy into the hype on. He’s got good physicals, offensive and defensive tools, as well as being a huge team-first guy. However, playing Junior A in the CCHL for the past two seasons he’s posted just 59 points in 124 games. That's an alarming pace at the top development leagues but is inexcusable for me at the CCHL level. I hope I’m wrong and this kid proves those clamoring over his potential right but I can’t get past the stats.

27. D Lucas Ginnell, Barrie Colts

Despite being a bit undersized (5’11, 165lbs) Ginnell holds his own defensively and logged big minutes all year long for Barrie. His offensive potential is where he stands out, after posting 41 points there certainly is room to grow. He’s a project pick but has the potential to be a top-4 defenceman and quarterback of the powerplay. 

28. D Andrew McNeely, London Knights

In the most positive way possible, if you watched a London Knights game this past season McNeely likely didn’t stand out to you. He doesn’t have game breaking offense but can move the puck and utilizes his 6’3 frame for effective defence while being capable of playing either side of the blueline. He’s not going to wow you but he’s versatile, puts his head down, and gets the job done without egregious mental mistakes attached to other picks in this range. 

29. D Hudson Fairfax, Maine Nordiques 

On the opposite end of the spectrum from McNeely, if you watch Fairfax play you’re going to be shaking your head. It will either be in disbelief of an amazing play he has pulled off or frustration for a giveaway that is in the back of your net. He’s a smooth skater with dynamic puckhandling and passing from the blueline and is not afraid to make a risky play. The defense leaves some to be desired but its the offense you’re drafting for here, with the right player development fit he could be a superstar in the making. 

30. D Radislav Tesar, AZ Residomo Havirov

At just eighteen years old Tesar played at the top Czechia level demonstrating his elite defensive capabilities. Of course, no pick in this range comes without faults and for Tesar despite his great defense he is a bit of a blackhole with the puck. I’m not talking he just can’t be a powerplay defenceman, I’m talking he struggles to make tape-to-tape passes without pressure on him. His floor should easily be a third pairing defensive defenceman, unfortunately his ceiling might not be much higher than that.

31. RW Ryan Rintoul, Toronto Patriots 

Rintoul demonstrated his solid offensive capabilities and great work ethic throughout the year in the OJHL while posting 59 points in 52 games. His defensive game needs work but scouts have highlighted although he lacks a good defensive stick, he has solid instinctual positioning. A lot of player development teams will believe in their capabilities to fix the rest and that could see Rintoul as a middle six winger.

32. C Matthew Herauf, Oshawa Generals 

Herauf is one of the most telling picks of the first round to test where a GM thinks their team will be in two to three years. Herauf likely will never have the offense to be a second line center but his elite defensive ability - specifically in faceoffs and puck battles - mean you can pencil him in as a strong bottom six center and penalty killer in just a few years time. If you believe your team is a contender in a couple of years than Herauf is a potential difference maker as a good playoff depth piece that would only be on his ELC.

33. D Wilder Anderson, Sault Ste Marie Greyhounds

Anderson will need to add some weight to his 6’5 frame as he is currently quite the lanky kid. With a few years to put some muscle on and really unlock his size he should be able to utilize his strong defensive build to the best of his abilities. He has an outside chance to be a PP2 defenceman but projects more as a number four or five with penalty killing duties. 

34. RW Kamil Korhonen, Raahe-Kiekko A

Korhonen has the feel of a blank canvas of sorts, he doesn’t have any standout traits but is capable in both ends. Despite being somewhat undersized, he plays hard and isn’t afraid of puck battles. Limited opportunities to watch him play in person may have scouting departments not giving him a first round grade but for me at this point of the draft he is an intriguing pick. You can leave him in Europe and see what happens or bring him straight to North America and trust your development team to mold him to what you need. 

35. LW Aeric Bennett, Yarmouth Mariners

Bennett is a pest that will aggravate opposition defence and goalies by parking himself in front of the crease and refusing to move. If he can find a way to be a bigger impact at the defensive end of the rink, he has the potential to be a solid third liner for many years to come. 

36. D Haukur Hjortsson, Icelandic U18

There is no denying that this guy is a few years away from being a few years away, however, his pro-level size, elite work ethic, and relative inexperience in higher levels of hockey means he also has some untapped potential and the opportunity to grow much more than others in this range. 

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