Any transactions that take place during the draft will be written in italics and highlighted in yellow.
Every draft pick will also be accompanied by a brief description of each prospect for a better understanding of what any team has added to its system.
FIRST ROUND |
1. FLORIDA PANTHERS |
Aaron Ekblad
– (D) Barrie Colts, OHL:
Mature beyond his years both mentally and physically.
Typically well positioned in his own end and can punish opponents with his
strength. Occasionally gets sucked out of position to lay a big hit, but it’s a
bad habit he’s been cutting down on. Has a great first pass and a pretty strong
slap shot. Can eat up minutes against quality opponents in all situations.
Doesn’t possess high-end north-south speed but is a great transitional skater.
|
2. BUFFALO SABRES |
Sam Reinhart
– (C) Kootenay Ice, WHL:
Has the offensive skillset to take over a hockey game,
but his instincts are what serve him best game-in and game-out. Thinks the game
on a very high level. He simply knows how to find teammates. Can adjust to
playing the game at any pace. Has an impressive, accurate shot. Deceptively
quick while skating in any direction, but doesn’t have true breakaway speed.
|
3. EDMONTON OILERS |
Leon Draisaitl
– (C/LW) Prince Albert Raiders, WHL:
Not an overly physical force or too aggressive on the
forecheck, but don’t think you’ll knock him off the puck easily. Uses his big
body to protect the puck exceptionally well, and then strike by dishing it off
to a nearby teammate or ripping a wrister of his own. Has good speed and
acceleration when skating straight ahead. Offensive instincts make him a great
playmaker.
|
4. CALGARY FLAMES |
Sam Bennett
– (LW) Kingston Frontenacs, OHL:
A very “slippery” offensive talent who has the knack for
avoiding defensemen stepping up on him. An energizer bunny built in a hockey
sweater. Skates well. Has extremely soft hands, but don’t expect him to try
anything too flashy. Possesses a hard, accurate snap shot. Plays a heavy game
despite not having a heavy frame (yet). Has scorer’s sense in the o-zone, and
average to above average d-zone positioning.
|
5. NEW YORK ISLANDERS |
Michael Dal
Colle – (LW) Oshawa Generals, OHL:
Plays a power forward’s game, and uses his large frame to
his advantage. Knows how to maneuver the puck in tight spaces whether he’s
dangling defenders or getting off a quick shot. Battles hard at both ends of
the ice, and is a load to handle along the boards. As a playmaker, he’s
demonstrated good passing ability, but sometimes his decision comes a split
second too late. Working on all elements of his skating would be a great benefit.
|
6. VANCOUVER CANUCKS |
Jake Virtanen – (LW) Calgary Hitmen, WHL:
A
“take no prisoners” hockey player, he’s expected to bring power and energy to
any line-up he’s put in. Has more offensive upside than your everyday grinder,
though, and packs a strong shot. Fearlessly, he’ll attack the crease and
battles hard along the boards. Not blazingly fast, he still has good speed, and
his stride has the strength and drive of a locomotive. Good luck knocking him
off balance.
|
7. CAROLINA HURRICANES |
Haydn Fleury
– (D) Red Deer Rebels, WHL:
A great skater for a bigger d-man, quickly transitions in
any direction. Will rub opponents out against the boards or punishes with big
hits. Has a good sense of how a play is developing. Above average passer, but
just that. Packs a potent slapper, but sometimes waits too long to get it off
and is often blocked. Doesn’t tire out when logging massive minutes in a game.
Is good in his own end usually, but can get sucked out of position down low by looking
for a hit.
|
8. TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS |
William
Nylander – (C) MODO, SHL (Sweden):
One of the most creative and offensively gifted, if not the most offensively gifted, players in
the draft. Has the hands of the magician and spot-on accuracy with his wrist
and snap shots. Is a “put the crowd on the edge of its seat” talent, and looks
like he’s far from his offensive ceiling. His defensive game, however, is close
to non-existent at this stage of his career, and he sometimes gets caught
trying to do too much. An incredibly agile skater with great speed, too.
|
9. WINNIPEG JETS |
Nikolaj Ehlers
– (LW) Halifax Mooseheads, QMJHL:
This great Dane has blinding speed that has already drawn
comparisons to, wait for it… Pavel Bure. Not only is he fast in the
straightaway, he has tremendous footwork and can dart in different directions
to create prime scoring chances. Has shown great puck-handling moves and
playmaking vision/creativity. Makes fearless decisions with the puck, which
either pays huge dividends or gets him in trouble. Doesn’t handle board play well,
but he’ll drive the net hard.
|
Pittsburgh trades James Neal to Nashville for Patric Hornqvist and Nick Spaling
10. ANAHEIM DUCKS* (acquired from Ottawa in the Bobby Ryan trade) |
Nick Ritchie
– (LW) Peterborough Petes, OHL:
Freight train power forward with NHL-caliber scoring
touch already. Will absolutely run people over when he feels up to it. His shot
is accurate, and has a deceptively quick release. Packs power in his slap
shot/one-timers, as well. Some scouts say his puckhandling skills must improve,
while others call them “underrated”. His work habits and d-zone commitment is
inconsistent, and that has to change. Has a strong stride and surprisingly
agile feet.
|
11. NASHVILLE PREDATORS |
Kevin Fiala
– (LW) HV 71, SHL (Sweden):
A good, agile skater with a bullet shot and knows how to
get himself in position to score goals. Possesses plenty of puck skills. Has a
very high compete level and takes a lot of pride in his game. He’ll go to the
corners and battle, but tries his best avoid physical contact when the puck is
on his stick, sometimes to a fault by giving the puck away. Doesn’t understand
many defensive concepts yet.
|
12. ARIZONA COYOTES |
Brendan Perlini
– (LW) Niagara IceDogs, OHL:
A big body with an excellent set of wheels. His skating
ability mixed with his good hands and scoring touch makes his a game-breaking
talent when the puck is on his stick. Uses his large frame to protect the puck
well, but doesn’t use his body enough in the dirty areas of the ice when he
doesn’t have the puck. Needs to improve his defensive zone play, but it’s not
from a lack of effort.
|
13. WASHINGTON CAPITALS |
Jakub Vrána – (RW/LW) Linköpings, SHL (Sweden):
A very gifted offensive player, he has a laser shot and good
passing ability to pair with his fantastic vision in the opponent’s end of the
ice. His effort in his own end and willingness to attack the dirty areas are
inconsistent. Has tremendous speed and lateral quickness. Occasionally gets
caught trying to do too much with the puck.
|
14. DALLAS STARS |
Julius Honka – (D) Swift Current Broncos,
WHL:
Defenseman
who excels on the offensive aspect of the game, but knows his way around his
own zone well, too. Always decisive with his decision-making, and they’re more
often than not the best decision. Pinpoint passing on the rush. Becomes a
lethal force on the PP by utilizing his skills and smarts. Isn’t intimidated by
bigger players or heavy-hitting forecheckers, but can be outmuscled in front.
He has the speed to make him a threat on the rush, and the agility to make him
unflappable in transition.
|
15. DETROIT RED WINGS |
Dylan Larkin – (C) USNTDP, USHL:
Possesses
above average speed thanks to tremendous edgework and technique, but won’t win
any speed skating competitions. His brain processes the game like a
supercomputer in all three zones. He knows where needs to be. Some scouts have
left wishing he would use his teammates more often, while others will be
clamoring for him to shoot the puck more. Speaking of his shot, he has a great
slapper and an accurate wrist shot. Ultimately, good things seem to happen for
everyone on the ice for his team when he’s out there.
|
16. COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS |
Sonny Milano – (LW) USNTDP, USHL:
A
creative offensive talent who likes to play a finesse game. Shooting isn’t
overly impressive at this juncture of his career, but he goes from stationary
to full speed exceptionally well for anyone, not just for someone his age. Uses
great edgework to evade defenders, and sees the ice well enough to set-up
teammates for golden opportunities on a regular basis. Puck-handling is top
notch, and when matched with his speed and agility, it makes up for his lack of
size.
|
17. PHILADELPHIA FLYERS |
Travis Sanheim
– (D) Calgary Hitmen, WHL:
Effectively uses his long reach for frequent poke checks
and disrupting passes. Also very willing to block shots. Improved tremendously
in many areas during the season, including reading the play on the rush,
agility and pivots, and puck skills. His slap shot packs a decent punch, but it
takes him an extra moment to get it off, and his wrist shot is poor. Despite
improving his agility, his footwork still needs go up several notches.
|
18. MINNESOTA WILD |
Alex Tuch
– (RW) USNTDP, USHL:
Large-and-in-charge power forward with a great offensive
package. Forechecks well, drives the net hard, but does more than just bang
bodies. Has a quick release and impressive hands. He has a strong stride and
handles himself well in one-on-one situations, but lacks high end speed nor is
he very agile. Protects the puck exceptionally well. The defensive side of the
puck is no mystery to him, either, and he can be trusted to backcheck
regularly.
|
19. TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING |
Anthony
DeAngelo – (D) Sarnia Sting, OHL:
A smooth, agile skater with great acceleration. He likes
to rush the puck up ice, and he’s pretty good at it. Also a fantastic passer,
knows exactly what to do when the puck is on his stick. Is willing to engage
physically, but needs to bulk up to impose himself more on opponents. Needs to
continue to tighten up his play in his own zone.
|
San Jose trades picks No. 20 and 178 to Chicago for picks No. 27 and 62
20. CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS* (acquired from San Jose during the draft in a pick-swap) |
Nick Schmaltz – (C) Green Bay Gamblers, USHL:
A
speedy offensive player with great edgework. Knows how to elude opposing
defenders to put himself in prime position to break a game open. No shortage of
confidence with the puck. Has limited interest in his defensive end, and hasn’t
shown many signs of being able to make teammates that much better. Lacks the
playmaking sense you’d like to see from a skilled centerman.
|
21. ST. LOUIS BLUES |
Robby Fabbri
– (C) Guelph Storm, OHL:
Uses quick feet and an explosive stride to elude
defenders and create countless offensive opportunities. Incredibly agile. Has a
great wrister, and has a great sense of when to pass and when to shoot. A bit
undersized, but plays fearless in the face of bigger, stronger opponents, and
can be expected to be a greater force on the forecheck with a natural strength
progression. Backchecks hard, but can get lost in his own end sometimes.
|
22. PITTSBURGH PENGUINS |
Kasperi Kapanen
– (LW) KalPa, Liiga (Finland):
Shifty, agile skater with good speed and hockey sense.
Knows how to create plenty of scoring chances for himself and teammates, and
has shown smart play in his own end, too. His hands are top notch and is a lot
to handle in one-on-one situations. Clearly does not enjoy the physical side of
hockey and will rarely sacrifice his body to go the extra mile on a play.
Shooting is A-grade.
|
23. COLORADO AVALANCHE |
Connor Bleackley – (C) Red Deer Rebels, WHL:
In
one word: “Workhorse”. Mature beyond his years, Bleackley leads both in the
locker room and on the ice. Finishes hits and relentless on the forecheck.
Creates most offensive opportunities from his forechecking pressure, but
improved his offensive hockey sense a lot this season. Possesses a heavy wrist
shot that he likes to peel out from behind the net and let rip. Great
defensively and on the PK. He’s a good technical skater, but could improve his
acceleration.
|
24. VANCOUVER CANUCKS* (acquired on draft day from Anaheim in the Ryan Kesler trade) |
Jared McCann
– (C) Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds, OHL:
Not a “dynamic” offensive player, but still excels in
every aspect of the offensive side of the game. Has great hockey sense and
vision in the o-zone, and that allows him to beat opponents with his wicked
shot, crisp passes, or soft hands. Plays responsibly in his own end, as well.
Demonstrates excellent agility. Intense competitor who backchecks and
forechecks hard. Primarily a playmaking, two-way centerman.
|
25. BOSTON BRUINS |
David Pastrňák
– (RW) Södertälje, Allsvenskan
(Sweden):
Czech winger has jaw-dropping shooting and stick-handling
ability. Could burn holes in the netting with his wrist shots. Awesome edgework
makes him slippery and hard for defenders to flag down. Individually, he
remains effective in tight spaces, but puts his head down and forgets about his
teammates. Skillset and speed makes him a burden to handle one-on-one. Can
attempt one too many dangles and give up the puck, and needs to learn the
defensive side of the game.
|
26. MONTRÉAL CANADIENS |
Nikita Scherbak
– (LW) Saskatoon Blades, WHL:
Most of his overall skills remain very raw, but he’s
shown great skating ability and an unrelenting willingness to sacrifice his
body in the battle areas. Goes hard to the front of the net and will take a hit
to make a play. Also shows a good skill set to go with his skating, but his
defensive game needs work. Grew more comfortable and accustomed to the North
American game with every passing week.
|
27. SAN JOSE SHARKS* (acquired from Chicago during the draft in a pick-swap) |
Nikolai
Goldobin – (C) Sarnia Sting, OHL:
An offensive dynamo, Goldobin has great puck skills,
offensive flare, and playmaking sense to die for. Can let loose an absolute
rocket of a snap shot. Tends to “get lost” and roam in the defensive zone and
won’t backcheck hard unless the puck is in his immediate area. Takes needless
penalties at times, too. He might know his way around the offensive zone as
well as anyone in this draft class, but his end of the ice is a complete
mystery to him.
|
Tampa Bay trades pick No. 28 to NY Islanders for picks No. 35 and 57
28. NEW YORK ISLANDERS* (acquired during the draft from Tampa Bay via NY Rangers in a pick-swap) |
Joshua Ho-Sang – (C/RW) Windsor Spitfires,
OHL:
A
tremendous puck-handler who may have the very best hands in the draft. Makes
artful and creative plays consistently. His footwork and edgework are equally
impressive. His combination of skill, speed, and offensive acumen keep
defenders on their heels. Gained a reputation as a easily frustrated player who
takes needless penalties, and tends to try and be a one-man show in big
situations.
|
29. LOS ANGELES KINGS |
Adrian Kempe – (C) MODO, SHL (Sweden):
Attacks
opposing defenses with hard hits and determination to get the puck back for his
team. Works well in corners and in front of the net, and packs a heavy shot.
His puck-handling and passing need work. Skates well, and gets a great jump
from his first few steps. Has good balance and a strong stride that fits his
style of play.
|
30. NEW JERSEY DEVILS* (pick stripped then reawarded at 30th overall as part of cap circumvention punishment) |
John Quenneville
– (C) Brandon Wheat Kings, WHL:
Loves to forecheck, and he’s really good at it, but he
should drive to the net more. He’s got good hands and makes smart plays in
traffic. To call his skating artful would be a lie, but his edgework is
surprisingly effective and he always keeps his legs churning. Does not have a
quick/explosive first step. His vision and timing in the offensive zone is
great.
|
SECOND ROUND |
31. BUFFALO SABRES |
Brendan Lemieux – (LW) Barrie Colts, OHL:
Loves
to bang bodies, and seems to relish playing against mean, physical opponents
instead of softer ones he can pick on more easily. Hits hard and isn’t shy
about giving an extra shot to burrow under an opponents’ skin. Chips in
offensively usually because of his willingness to crash the net, not because of
a sniper’s shooting ability. Actually has some above average hands, but hasn’t
shown great vision to set up teammates after a skillful move on his part. Not
as tenacious a backchecker as he is a forechecker.
|
32. FLORIDA PANTHERS |
Jayce Hawryluk – (C) Brandon Wheat Kings, WHL:
Impresses
with his play in all three zones and his grit despite lack of size. Loves to
play a workman’s game, and is smart enough to put himself in high-scoring areas
in the offensive zone. Doesn’t have one overly impressive offensive trait
(except maybe consistency,) but isn’t missing any tools either. Agitates with
the best of ‘em. Typically strong in the faceoff circle.
|
33. ST. LOUIS BLUES* (acquired from Edmonton in the Magnus Pääjärvi / David Perron trade) |
Ivan Barbashev
– (C/LW) Moncton Wildcats, QMJHL:
Gritty Russian CHL import who hates to be on the losing
side of a contest, whether it be in the context of an entire game, or one
shift, or even one puck battle. Positions himself astutely defensively. Natural
playmaking ability is questionable, as he’s inconsistent in finding creative
ways to find teammates. Has an absolutely wicked release that leaves
goaltenders looking over their shoulder often. Needs to improve in the faceoff
circle if he’s a center in the NHL.
|
34. CALGARY FLAMES |
Mason McDonald – (G) Charlottetown Islanders,
QMJHL:
Tall,
lanky netminder with lightning quick reflexes down low. One of the more
confident puck-handling goalies available in this draft, as well. Often puts
himself in odd positions where he’s “fighting” the puck instead of simply
stopping it. Has trouble absorbing rebounds when surrounded by traffic.
However, he shows a calm demeanor and doesn’t rattle easily.
|
35. TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING* (acquired during the draft from NY Islanders as a part of a pick-swap) |
Dominik Mašín – (D) Slavia Praha U20, Czech
Junior:
Stay-at-home
defender adores shutting down top offensive talent of other teams. Wisely
chooses when to step up and rub out an opponent and when to hang back and
eliminate other options. Hands of stone. Calm under pressure with the puck and
makes diligent decisions regardless of time or situation. Distributes the puck
very well whether it’s on the breakout or the man advantage. His shot from the
point is good, but not great.
|
36. VANCOUVER CANUCKS |
Thatcher Demko
– (G) Boston College, NCAA:
When he’s at his best, Demko will never be caught off an
angle and is always square to the shooter. Though he needs to become more
consistent in this area, he has the competitiveness and raw athleticism to
battle for saves when caught out of position. Gets caught overcommitting to
plays sometimes. Snaps in and out of the butterfly quickly, and covers the
bottom of the net well.
|
37. CAROLINA HURRICANES |
Alex
Nedeljkovic – (G) Plymouth Whalers, OHL:
Looks small but plays big. Excellent edgework allows him
to reposition himself quickly and move laterally with an apparent ease. Makes
acrobatic saves regularly. Very aggressive and has great rebound control, as
well. Needs to improve much of his technical base, as he relies on his natural
athleticism too much.
|
38. ANAHEIM DUCKS* (acquired from Toronto in the Peter Holland trade) |
Marcus
Pettersson – (D) Skellefteå
J20, SuperElit (Sweden):
Stands like the Eiffel Tower: tall and majestic, but thin
and wirey. Uses his long wingspan to eliminate passing lanes and smack pucks
off of opponents’ sticks, but does not utilize his size enough in a physical
capacity. He shows excellent mobility on the rush, and has an accurate shot
from the point. Occasionally gives away too much gap, but is well positioned in
just about every other situation. Very effective power play quarterback.
|
Buffalo trades pick No. 39 to Washington for picks No. 44 and 74
39. WASHINGTON CAPITALS* (acquired from Buffalo via Minnesota via Winnipeg in a draft day two pick-swap) |
Vinet
Vaneček – (G) Binatky nad Jizerou, Czech 2:
“Vanecek is a small but quick, reflex goaltender who can
make the highlight reel save. He moves well in the crease and has both a quick
glove and the ability to shoot out both pads in a blink. He has so much to work
on but the raw potential is there.” – Future Considerations
|
40. OTTAWA SENATORS |
Andreas Englund
– (D) Djurgården
J20, SuperElit (Sweden):
Heavy defenseman who relishes the physical game. Clears
the crease and maintains a good gap. Doesn’t always deliver painful open ice
checks, but he’ll make sure the puck carrier loses control. Isn’t particularly
swift or agile, but his north-south speed is passable. Picks his spots as to
when to join the rush, but is not by any means an offensively gifted d-man.
|
41. NEW JERSEY DEVILS |
Josh Jacobs
– (D) Indiana Ice, USHL:
Great defensive-minded d-man with skating ability.
Agility and edgework allow him to move in all directions efficiently and shut
down plays before they even happen. Sees the ice well for outlet passes and
moving it from the point in the offensive zone, but his own offensive upside is
limited. Will rub guys out, but isn’t physically imposing despite a decent
build.
|
42. NASHVILLE PREDATORS |
Vladislav
Kamenev – (C) Stalnye Lisy Magnitigorsk, MHL (Russia):
Doesn’t do things the flashy way, but he’s one of the best
two-way centerman available in the draft. Already tall and filled out, Kamenev
plays a power forward’s game in the offensive end. Asserts himself to win board
battles. Loves to be set up in the slot for devastating wrist shots and
one-timers. Protects the puck exceptionally well and has a powerful stride, but
never seems to build up to an impressive speed. Takes comically bad
retaliation/frustration penalties.
|
43. ARIZONA COYOTES |
Ryan
MacInnis – (C) Kitchener Rangers, OHL:
Raw centerman with a great head for the game. When he’s
on top of things, he’s a fantastic two-way forward who is well-positioned in
all three zones, but he legitimately looks like he doesn’t care on some nights.
Has a heavy shot and decent speed, but most of his mechanics need a lot of
work. His stride is slow and he takes too long to build to top speed. Wins a
lot of face offs, but not many puck battles.
|
44. BUFFALO SABRES* (acquired from Washington in a draft day two pick-swap) |
Eric Cornel
– (C/RW) Peterborough Petes, OHL:
A great playmaker in the offensive zone and a reliable
player on the defensive side of the game. When he’s willing to forecheck, he
does an okay job, but he simply doesn’t crash the dirty areas enough. Deceptive
release lets loose a hard snap shot that fools goaltenders. A shifty skater,
but isn’t explosive. Takes him a few strides to get up to full speed, but that
full speed is very good.
|
45. DALLAS STARS |
Brett Pollock
– (C) Edmonton Oil Kings, WHL:
Plays a simple game that gains him the trust of every
coaching staff he’s ever played for. Forechecks well and scores greasy goals.
Began to produce more and make artful plays when placed with more skilled teammates.
His shots are usually hard and on target, but his release is too slow. Has poor
skating technique that will need coaching, and is easily knocked over or
knocked off the puck because of his poor balance. Defensive commitment is
lacking.
|
Nashville trades pick No. 46 to San Jose for pick No. 51 and a 2015 4th rounder
46. SAN JOSE SHARKS* (acquired from Nashville via Detroit in a draft day two pick-swap) |
Julius Bergman – (D) Frölunda J20, SuperElit (Sweden) |
47. COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS |
Ryan Collins
– (D) USNTDP, USHL:
Defensive defenseman knows how to play his role. Will
play physical and rub men out against the wall, but some scouts feel he could
play “meaner” and more aggressive physically given his size. Can sometimes take
too long to make a decision with the puck. Lacks offensive skill. Decent
skating ability that needs some mechanical work here and there, but he uses it
more to adjust to shifty attackers in his own end and not so much on the rush
for his own squad.
|
48. PHILADELPHIA FLYERS |
Nicolas Aubé-Kubel
– (RW) Val-d’Or Foreurs, QMJHL:
Plays his best when the puck is off his stick. Shows an
excellent 200-foot game every night. Will pressure the puck carrier, clog up
passing lanes, drives the net, and will forecheck and backcheck with energy.
Has a strong, quick stride, but could improve his first few steps for a more
explosive start. Sometimes he shows too much patience with the puck, other
times not enough. Often plays indecisive when he has the puck and doesn’t hit
teammates right on the tape enough.
|
Vancouver trades pick No. 50 to Los Angeles for Linden Vey
49. BUFFALO SABRES* (acquired from Minnesota in the Jason Pominville trade) |
Václav
Karabáček – (RW) Gatineau Olympiques, QMJHL:
Everyone agrees on two things: He’s got an elite
offensive skillset, but he’s the poster boy for consistently inconsistent
players. Lightning quick release on wrist and snap shots gives goalies a nice
tan on the back of their necks. An excellent skater whose speed gives him
coast-to-coast scoring ability. That said, he might try to do too much himself
sometimes. Will go to the corners and battle, but likes to pull up if he and a
defender are crashing a puck at the same time. Defensive game is questionable.
He’ll completely disappear for periods or even entire games.
|
50. LOS ANGELES KINGS* (acquired on draft day from Vancouver via Tampa Bay in exchange for Linden Vey) |
Roland McKeown
– (D) Kingston Frontenacs, OHL:
A very mobile defenseman who can quickly transition in
all directions. A very effective puck rusher and passer, a testament to his
great, unteachable hockey sense. Wins many puck battles in the corners and
behind his net, but doesn’t lay hits enough. Knows how to distribute the puck,
too. Could improve his positional play, but is far from incompetent in his own
zone.
|
51. NASHVILLE PREDATORS* (acquired from San Jose in a draft day two pick-swap) |
Jack Dougherty
– (D) USNTDP, USHL:
Reliable, sturdy d-man who plays mistake-free in his own
zone and on the breakout. Likes to block shots and can be trusted to come out of
battles with the puck. Though he’s all about control then finesse, he still
contributes on the offensive side of the puck with his smart passes and great
skating. Unafraid to lug the puck up the ice on his own. Doesn’t truly have any
weaknesses.
|
52. ST. LOUIS BLUES |
Maxim Letunov – (C/LW) Youngstown Phantoms,
USHL:
Skilled
forward with a commitment to playing in all three zones. Plays in all special
teams situations. Has good straight ahead speed, but has an awkward stride and
should work on his mobility in transition. Possesses a wicked wrist shot and is
a smart, strong passer. Sometimes gets knocked off the puck by big bodies, but
can still be a bull in battle situations in the corners when he decides to go
in there. Needs to head to those battle areas with more consistency.
|
53. SAN JOSE SHARKS* (acquired from Pittsburgh in exchange for Douglas Murray) |
Noah Rod
– (LW) Geneve, NLA (Switzerland):
Well-rounded winger who brings his fire to the ice every
night. Has good puck skills, dangling defenders and dishing good sauce when
necessary. Tries to beat defenders while he’s standing flat-footed, which will
not work in the NHL. Gets involved in the forecheck and will wear d-men down.
Is willing to take a hit to make a simple play. Prone to brain farts in his own
end.
|
54. CALGARY FLAMES* (acquired from Colorado in exchange for Reto Berra) |
Hunter Smith
– (RW) Oshawa Generals, OHL:
Undrafted in 2013. His skating kept him from being an
effective player in the OHL a year ago, but now he’s improved enough to go from
one point in 30 games to 40 in 64. Loves to throw his gargantuan body around.
Will stand at the front of the net and isn’t easy to move. Surprise, his hands
are very impressive for anyone, not just a big guy, adding to the power forward
element of his game. That said, his skating still needs lots of work, and he
requires defensive tutoring.
|
55. ANAHEIM DUCKS |
Brandon Montour – (D) Waterloo Blackhawks,
USHL:
Undrafted
in 2012 and ’13. Loves to play an offensive game, and that’s because he’s
really good at it. Shows great instincts and playmaking ability. Loves to jump
into the play on the rush and in the o-zone. He even plays aggressive in his
own end, springing like a snake at open passing lanes and puck carriers to
separate them from the puck. Obviously, his high risk style can bite him in the
butt, often. Gets caught floating out of position in either end while looking
for an opportunity to attack.
|
56. BOSTON BRUINS |
Ryan Donato
– (C) Dexter School, High School (Mass.):
“An intelligent player who sees the ice well and has
plenty of offensive skill. Possesses slick hands, solid vision, and creative
moves with the puck but has some issues with his mobility. Thinks the game at a
high level.” - Future Considerations
|
57. TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING* (acquired during the draft from NY Islanders via Montréal as a part of a pick-swap) |
Johnathan MacLeod – (D) USNTDP, USHL:
Isn’t
a player that jumps out at you and wows you with incredible plays on the first
night you see him, or the second night, or third… it takes a while to
appreciate his trustworthy game. Smarts and physical nature makes him difficult
to play against. Doesn’t have much offensive upside at all, but he’s always
good in his own end. A modest skater, but one who wants to improve.
|
58. ARIZONA COYOTES* (acquired from Chicago in the David Rundblad trade) |
Christian
Dvorak – (LW) London Knights, OHL:
“This player played well, has a very wide skating stride and
this translates very well to skating in
traffic and protecting the puck. Not blazing speed but he
is quick and carried the puck well through the neutral zone” – Ross MacLean, ISS
|
59. NEW YORK RANGERS |
Brandon
Halverson – (G) Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds, OHL:
Spent most the season as a back-up to star Matt Murray,
so there’s still very little we know about Halverson when it comes to game
situation. What we do know, is that he has ideal NHL size for a netminder and a
natural athleticism other young goalies would envy. From the small sample size
we have, he tends throw technique out the window when facing heavy pressure.
|
60. COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS* (acquired from Los Angeles in the Marian Gaborik trade) |
Alex Lintuniemi – (D) Ottawa 67’s, OHL:
“Lintuniemi is a big strong two-way blue liner who uses
his size well to defend, can handle the puck, makes a strong outlet pass and
joins the rush but has some inconsistency issues in his game and slower feet
that need to be addressed.” – Future Considerations
|
THIRD ROUND |
61. BUFFALO SABRES |
Jonas Johansson
– (G) Brynäs J20,
SuperElit (Sweden):
“Covers plenty of net utilizing his large 6-foot-4 frame...
agile on his feet, moves around his crease swiftly - with movements being calm
and controlled. Plays a more stay-at-home style – protecting the middle of the
net - and playing in the paint for the most part. Tough to beat down low as he
transitions to his butterfly fluently – sealing off the ice effectively with
his long legs ... quick to react and get into his stance - without any
extraneous movements once set .. must guard against dropping too early and exposing the upper
portions of his net.” – McKeen’s Hockey
|
San Jose trades pick No. 62 to Nashville for picks No. 72 and 102
62. NASHVILLE PREDATORS* (acquired from San Jose via Chicago via Florida during the draft in a pick-swap) |
Justin Kirkland – (LW) Kelowna Rockets, WHL:
Shows
excellent north-south speed, but his footwork needs improvement. Choppy stride
takes him a while to get up to full speed. Wiiiiiiiiiide turning radius.
Tireless worker away from the puck. Delivers hits regularly, but they aren’t
quite punishing enough to wear down defensemen over the course of a game or
series yet. Most offensive skills are still a work in progress, but not
hopeless. Loves to pounce on rebounds and buries them with regularity.
|
63. DETROIT RED WINGS* (acquired from Columbus via Los Angeles via Edmonton) |
Dominic Turgeon
– (C) Portland Winterhawks, WHL:
Inconsistent in his offensive production. He’s often
first on the forecheck and can score goals around the net. Has good offensive
instincts to create for himself and others. He’s a player who has clearly spent
a lot of time as a kid practicing passing over and over again, because he’s
really good at it. Can’t skate very well. Work in the defensive zone is
questionable.
|
64. CALGARY FLAMES |
Brandon Hickey – (D) Spruce Grove Saints,
AJHL:
Recognizes
his limitations and plays his game accordingly. Shuts things down in his own
end using good positioning and physicality. Plays with an edge. Doesn’t project
as a major offensive threat, but he’ll be good for double-digit well-earned
points a year. Skates well enough to not get burned to the outside and keep a
good gap, but doesn’t have puck-rushing speed.
|
65. FLORIDA PANTHERS (acquired from NY Islanders) |
Juho Lammikko – (LW) Ässät Pori U20, Jr.-A Liiga
(Finland):
Power
forward with good hockey IQ. Competes along the walls and wreaks havoc in front
of the net. He’s going to try hard at both ends of the ice, but needs coaching
on the defensive side of the puck. Identifies where his teammates are in the
o-zone and releases hard, accurate, crisp passes. He might take too long to
make his decisions, though. His first step and acceleration need work.
|
66. VANCOUVER CANUCKS |
Nikita Tryamkin – (D) Avtomobilist Yekaterinburg, KHL (Russia): |
67. CAROLINA HURRICANES |
Warren Foegele
– (LW) St. Andrew’s College, High School (Canada):
“A hard driving, good skating, get in the 'guts of the
action' player who plays unselfishly and does the spade work for his team. Is
just tapping into his potential and has great room to grow further and thus
increase his impact.” – TSN’s Craig Button
|
68. TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS |
Rinat
Valiyev – (D) Kootenay Ice, WHL:
Undrafted in 2013. Mobile defenseman with soft hands and
good passing skills. Knows how to make short, crisp breakout passes or long,
accurate stretch passes. Good sauce. Calm under pressure from forecheckers.
Runs around in his own end and struggles with the concept of defensive
positioning.
|
69. WINNIPEG JETS |
Jack Glover
– (D) USNTDP, USHL:
Glover has been enigmatic in the eyes of many scouts.
Some say he tries to do too much, others say he needs to be more creative. Some
claim he leaves passing lanes open, other applaud his d-zone awareness. Some
say his offensive upside is limited, while supporters point to his team-leading
points among defenseman this past season. One thing is for sure, though, at
6’3”, his skating ability is well above average, and while he lacks
electrifying speed, he will never get
turned around by attackers. He’s well-versed in the art of sauce, too.
|
70. OTTAWA SENATORS |
Miles Gendron
– (D) Rivers Red Wings, Prep School (Mass.):
Recently converted from forward to defense and it shows.
Adores jumping into the play. Has tremendous speed and agility, which adds a
whole new element to his wild horse approach. Loses puck battles like Taylor
Swift loses boyfriends. Despite the lack of experience on defense, he always
keeps a good gap and knocks pucks out of passing lanes (if he’s where he’s
supposed to be.) Needs to seriously add some strength to improve his overall
game.
|
71. NEW JERSEY DEVILS |
Connor
Chatham – (RW) Plymouth Whalers, OHL:
Has above average skills on the offensive side of the puck,
but nothing that falls under game-breaking category. He’s a presence in the
locker room and competes hard every night, but sometimes leaves scouts wishing
he’d utilize his size more in wall battles. Processes plays in the offensive
zone well, but the same can’t be said about the d-zone. Can disappear in some
games.
|
72. SAN JOSE SHARKS* (acquired in a draft day pick-swap with Nashville) |
Alex Schoenborn –
(RW) Portland Winterhawks, WHL:
The quintessential role player, for the good reasons as
well as the poor. Gets pesky on the forecheck and finishes his hits. Is willing
to drop the gloves to defend teammates, and falling somewhere between light
heavyweight and welterweight, he shouldn’t have a problem finding opponents and
being outmatched. Has limited offensive gifts, but he hustles to front of the
net.
|
73. MONTRÉAL CANADIENS* (acquired from Arizona) |
Brett Lernout – (D) Swift Current Broncos,
WHL:
6’4”
rearguard plays with a mean streak and hasn’t met an opponent he likes.
Delivers punishing hits that come close to crossing the line, but typically
don’t go much farther than that. His skating is good for a big guy, but still
not that great overall. His plays with the puck need to earn some consistency,
as he already has hands of stone and he can sometimes botch a simple breakout
pass. Plays well in his own end, and thrives in physical games, not firewagon
skillfests.
|
74. BUFFALO SABRES* (acquired from Washington in a draft day two pick-swap) |
Brycen Martin – (D) Swift Current Broncos,
WHL:
Passing
ability on the breakout is his real attention-grabber. Has a hard shot that
gets through traffic. Could play more physical, and needs to improve his d-zone
positioning, but he’s not hopeless. Has a great sense of when to pinch and when
to hang back. He doesn’t respond well in games in which he’s playing poorly.
Follows bad plays with mopey play or overcompensating for his mistakes and
getting into more trouble.
|
St. Louis trades Roman Polak to Toronto for Carl Gunnarsson and pick No. 94
75. DALLAS STARS |
Alex Peters
– (D) Plymouth Whalers, OHL:
Plays defense-first hockey and has a great passing
ability. Covers a wide area with an active stick, large wingspan, and agility.
However, he lacks speed out of his first step, or any step, for that matter.
Executes a breakout well, but has little to no offensive upside. Great on the
penalty kill.
|
76. COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS* (acquired from Detroit in a pick-swap) |
Elvis Merzļinkins
– (G) Lugano, NLA (Switzerland):
“A very athletic butterfly-Goaltender who is well sized
and covers a lot of the net. He loves to challenge shooters and never gives up
on a shot. Despite his decent reflexes, he is a goaltender who lets the puck
hit him and control the rebounds. Needs to play a more composed game, as he
tends to overplay certain situations. Handles the puck very well… is a
respectable stickhandler and can play long outlet passes.” – Rafik Soliman,
eliteprospects.com / Undrafted in 2012 and '13
|
77. COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS |
Blake
Siebenaler – (D) Niagara IceDogs, OHL:
Tremendous player in transition. Makes quick decisions
with the puck and delivers swift, pin-point passes. Skates well in all
directions and thinks with his head on a swivel. His slap shot isn’t overly
intimidating, but it often finds its way through traffic and on goal. His
defensive game needs fine-tuning, but is far from hopeless. He gets caught puck
watching instead of focusing on his immediate surroundings.
|
78. NEW YORK ISLANDERS* (acquired from Philadelphia in the Andrew MacDonald trade) |
Ilya Sorokin
– (G) Metallurg Novokuznetsk, KHL (Russia):
Undrafted in 2012. Athletic, battle-tested netminder who’s
been playing in the concealed area of eastern Russia. Typically well positioned
between the pipes, but makes acrobatic saves when he must. Edgework/skating is
a strong suit, but his technique needs a little work. Doesn’t stand tall in
goal; he’ll shrink his chest and leave the top corners of the net unnecessarily
unattended.
|
Minnesota swaps picks No. 79 and 80 with Tampa Bay
79. TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING* (acquired from Minnesota in a pick-swap) |
Brayden Point
– (C) Moose Jaw Warriors, WHL:
He’s got a head like Will Hunting and hands like Charmin:
Super smart and ultra-soft. PP specialist is constantly outsmarting his
opposition. Impressive speed mixed with Agile footwork allows him to dart
around the ice. Committed to a 200-foot game. Gets bodied off the puck and
loses more than half his puck battles because of his Lilliputian build.
|
80. MINNESOTA WILD* (acquired from Tampa Bay in a pick-swap) |
Louis Belpedio – (D) USNTDP, USHL |
81. SAN JOSE SHARKS |
Dylan Sadowy
– (C) Saginaw Spirit, OHL:
Plays determined on every shift and his passion helps
motivate teammates, too. Dedicated to doing the little things to win and
responsible play at both ends of the ice. Just as effective on the forecheck as
F1 as he is as F3. Good penalty killer, but don’t expect him to contribute much
to the PP. Lacks any outstanding offensive traits, but isn’t poor enough to
hold back more skilled linemates. Could be even more effective if he added leg
strength for a more explosive stride.
|
82. ST. LOUIS BLUES |
Jake Walman – (D) Toronto Jr.
Canadiens, OJHL:
Smooth-skating d-man whose stride is effortless enough to make
figure skaters jealous. Has excellent agility and first-step explosiveness. Has
a hard shot, but needs to learn to get it on net. Very poised with the puck,
but sometimes inexplicably misses the mark on passes. Defensive zone play needs
a lot of fine tuning. It takes a lot to make him nervous in games, but takes
losing very seriously. Which is to say, he hates it. Pro: Upped his physicality
significantly this season. Con: Also significantly upped his PIM total as a
result.
|
Calgary trades pick No. 83 to Chicago for Brandon Bollig
83. CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS* (acquired from Calgary via Pittsburgh in exchange for Brandon Bollig) |
Matheson Iacopelli – (RW) Muskegon Lumberjacks, USHL |
84. COLORADO AVALANCHE |
Kyle Wood – (D) North Bay Battalion, OHL:
Tough
defenseman punches in bunches and hits anything that moves. Throws his 6’5”
into opponents and into shooting lanes to block shots. His straight-ahead speed
is actually sort of impressive, but his agility/lateral mobility is a mess.
He’s always in position, and reads developing plays well, but sometimes gets in
trouble chasing hits.
|
85. NEW YORK RANGERS* (acquired on draft day from Vancouver via Anaheim) |
Keegan Iverson – (C) Portland Winterhawks,
WHL:
Pummels
opponents with his hard (clean) hits and forechecking skills. He has hands like
a lumberjack, chopping wood even when he has the puck in open ice. Offensively,
he isn’t very gifted, but he’s good enough to bang in goals on the doorstep and
he crashes the crease with frequency. Will serve as net-front presence, but
likes to bang bodies more than anything.
|
86. PHILADELPHIA FLYERS* (acquired from Boston in exchange for Andrej Meszaros) |
Mark Freidman – (D) Waterloo Blackhawks, USHL |
87. ARIZONA COYOTES* (acquired from Montréal) |
Anton Karlsson – (RW) Frölunda, SHL (Sweden):
A
tireless worker on and off the ice and a player who not only will go to the
corners, but thrives there. Forces plenty of turnovers with heavy hitting on
the forecheck and knows how to create good scoring chances from working the
cycle. Has soft hands and decent speed, and has a knack for finding the puck
amidst net-front traffic. No consensus among scouts as to how much offense can
he produce against NHL-level competition.
|
88. CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS |
Beau Starrett
– (LW) South Shore Kings, EJHL:
Prior to the season, his coach challenged him to boost
his compete level, and he appears to have done so by adding muscle mass from off-ice
workouts and consistently proving to be a tenacious forechecker. Has good
offensive hockey sense. Will distribute just as frequently as he will shoot,
which keeps opposing defenses and goalies on their toes. Takes undisciplined
penalties sometimes. His shot is very good on both the forehand and backhand.
|
89. WASHINGTON CAPITALS* (acquired from NY Rangers) |
Nathan Walker – (LW) Hershey Bears, AHL |
90. LOS ANGELES KINGS |
Michael Amadio – (C) North Bay Battalion, OHL |
FOURTH ROUND |
91. EDMONTON OILERS* (acquired from Minnesota via Buffalo in exchange for Ilya Bryzgalov) |
William Lagesson – (D) Frölunda J20, SuperElit (Sweden) |
92. FLORIDA PANTHERS |
Joe Wegwerth – (RW) USNTDP, USHL |
93. CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS* (acquired from Toronto via Edmonton in the Dave Bolland trade) |
Nick Magyar – (RW) Kitchener Rangers, OHL:
Power
forward with an excellent understanding of how the o-zone works. Drives hard to
net and demonstrates good puck protection. Knows where to be when he doesn’t
have the puck, and rips one-timers. His offensive zone awareness doesn’t work
as well in his own end. Some games, it looks like he simply doesn’t care for
defense. He improved his skating a lot this season, but he was only “okay at
best” to start with.
|
94. ST. LOUIS BLUES* (acquired from Toronto via Calgary as a part of the Roman Polak / Carl Gunnarsson swap) |
Ville Husso
– (G) HIFK, Liiga (Finland):
Undrafted in 2013, Husso spent this season stepping up
into a man’s role in the Finnish elite league. He is solid positionally, makes
his chest big, and recovers incredibly well if and when he get tripped up by
lots of puck movement. Is very confident, but could challenge shooters more to
cut down angles. Can be beaten up high as his glove and blocker as a result of
his inconsistent aggression.
|
95. NEW YORK ISLANDERS |
Linus Soderstrom – (G) Djurgården J20, SuperElit (Sweden) |
96. CAROLINA HURRICANES* (acquired from Vancouver in a minor league trade) |
Josh Welsey – (D) Plymouth Whalers, OHL
|
97. CAROLINA HURRICANES |
Lucas Wallmark – (C/RW) Luleå AIK, SHL (Sweden):
Undrafted in 2013. Sees the ice incredibly well and shows great hockey sense. Passes very well and can always find the open teammate. Plays with passion and works hard to create o-zone opportunities as well as working tirelessly in practice. Scores timely goals. A special teams demon and great on draws. Biggest knock on him last year was his poor skating. Now he’s a decent skater, but still definitely not good.
|
98. CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS* (acquired from Colorado viaToronto) |
Fredrik Olofsson – (LW) Chicago Steel, USHL
|
99. WINNIPEG JETS |
Chase De Leo
– (C) Portland Winterhawks, WHL:
What he lacks in size he makes up for in heart. Never
quits on a play and keeps his legs churning through hits. He has good speed,
but his stride is short, and he could get even faster with a little
instruction. First few steps lack explosiveness. A great playmaker whose impact
shows up on the scoresheet more when he’s playing with skilled linemates. Isn’t
consistent enough in his own end. Will drive the net regularly and isn’t afraid
of big opponents along the boards.
|
100. OTTAWA SENATORS |
Shane Eiserman – (LW) Dubuque Fighting Saints,
USHL:
Power
forward who’s a handful for defenders to play against along the boards and in
the corners. Has a very quick release and gets a lot of power behind it, but
could work on his accuracy. Has decent speed, but doesn’t has a quick first
step and doesn’t adjust laterally well. Shows a good amount of smarts and
rarely panics with the puck on his stick.
|
101. WINNIPEG JETS* (acquired from New Jersey in exchange for Alexei Ponikarovsky) |
Nelson Nogier – (D) Saskatoon Blades, WHL:
|
102. SAN JOSE SHARKS* (acquired in a draft day pick-swap with Nashville) |
Alexis Vanier
– (D) Baie-Comeau Drakkar, QMJHL:
Huge, hulking defender who could be a lot better in his
own end. Occasionally leaves men wide open in his area. On the other hand, he’s
not afraid to throw his weight around. Shows great, decisive decision-making
with the puck, and has great hands for a big guy. Skating is clunky and lateral
mobility is an issue, but he has surprising and deceptive straight ahead speed.
His powerful clapper could be a useful tool on the PP, but if there’s a bonus
in NHL contracts for shooting right into shin guards, he could become the
highest paid player in history.
|
103. TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS* (acquired in exchange for Matthew Lombardi) |
J.J. Piccinich – (RW) Youngstown Phantoms,
USHL:
Sits
really low in his stride to get maximum power. Has very good speed. Has some
soft hands, but no death-defying one-on-one dangles. Unafraid to go anywhere in
the offensive zone, sometimes to a fault by sucking himself out of position.
His playmaking sense with the puck on his stick is his greatest asset. Some
scouts have questioned the consistency of his effort.
|
104. NEW YORK RANGERS* (acquired from Washington in a pick-swap) |
Ryan Mantha – (D)
Indiana Ice, USHL:
Very
easy to read this prospect: He’s a big, strong defensive defenseman who would
be even better if he utilized that size and strength more against opponents. He
uses a hideous, clunky stride and doesn’t project to produce on offense, but
he’s typically a well-positioned obelisk in his own end. Thrives on the penalty
kill.
|
105. DALLAS STARS |
Michael Prapavessis – (D) Toronto Lakeshore Patriots, OJHL:
|
106. DETROIT RED WINGS |
Christopher Ehn – (D) Frölunda J20, SuperElit (Sweden) |
107. COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS |
Julien
Pelletier – (LW) Cape Breton Screaming Eagles, QMJHL:
QMJHL rookie could be a great two-way player at the next
level if he had the right coach to refine his defensive positioning. He’s
always competing, always playing to win instead of not to lose. Shows a high
level of hockey intelligence on offense, but mostly only for himself. That’s
not to say he’s selfish, but he just creates for himself more than teammates.
Has soft hands and a very good release on his shot. Commitment to grinding in
the corners is inconsistent.
|
108. NEW YORK ISLANDERS* (acquired from Philadelphia in the Mark Streit trade) |
Devon Toews – (D) Quinnipiac University, NCAA
|
109. MINNESOTA WILD |
Kaapo Kähkönen
– (G) Espoo Blues U20, Jr.-A Liiga (Finland):
An interesting tending prospect who loves to utilize a
potpourri of styles and techniques between the pipes. Keeps his chest up, snaps
in and out of his butterfly with a bullet’s speed and travels post-to-post like
a jet. Angles well and calmly absorbs rebounds. Some have questioned his
competitive edge and if he has that instinct to battle for pucks when it seems
all hope is lost. Statistics deflated due to his workload with average to below
average teams all year.
|
110. ST. LOUIS BLUES* (acquired from Tampa Bay in the B.J. Crombeen trade) |
Austin Poganski
– (RW) Tri-City Storm, USHL:
Young winger already has size, strength, and a full
frame. Plays in powerful, straight lines, and owns real estate along all the
boards in every USHL rink. Has strong legs, but his skating style is awkward
and his agility could use work. As a result, he isn’t very fast. His natural hockey
sense at both ends of the ice is questionable at best, especially in his own
zone.
|
111. EDMONTON OILERS* (acquired from San Jose in exchange for Mike Brown) |
Zachary Nagelvort – (G) University of Michigan, NCAA |
112. NASHVILLE PREDATORS* (acquired from St. Louis in a pick-swap from the 2013 Draft) |
Viktor Arvidsson – (D) Skellefteå
J20, SuperElit (Sweden)
|
113. PITTSBURGH PENGUINS |
Sam Lafferty – (C/LW) Deerfield Academy Big Green, Prep School (Mass.): Undrafted in 2013 |
114. COLORADO AVALANCHE |
Alexis Pépin – (C/LW) Charlottetown
Islanders, QMJHL:
Has
good straight ahead speed for his hulking 6’2” body, and has great puck
control. Uses his big body to shield the puck from defenders when driving to
the net. Shot is good enough to score when the opportunity presents itself, but
won’t make any highlight snipes. Plays smart in his own zone, but sometimes
isn’t positioned where he could be for a prime scoring chance on offense.
Passes are often crisp and always accurate. His commitment to conditioning is
lacking.
|
115. DALLAS STARS* (acquired from Anaheim in exchange for Stephane Robidas) |
Brent Moran – (G) Niagara IceDogs, OHL:
Quick-legged
with good lower body strength, he pairs his quick lateral movements with sound
technique to float effortlessly across his crease to make saves. Had a slow
start to the 2013-14 season, but as he got comfortable, he stopped more shots.
Determined to work off the ice. Often gets caught overcommitting on certain
plays.
|
116. BOSTON BRUINS |
Danton Heinen – (C/LW) Surrey Eagles, BCHL: Undrafted in 2013 |
117. ARIZONA COYOTES* (acquired from Montréal) |
Michael Bunting
– (LW) Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds, OHL:
Not a physical force by any means, but earns every inch
of ice he gets because he works for it. Classic “little engine that could”
player. Works his butt off and is a leader in the locker room. Doesn’t have a
wildly hard shot, but soft hands around the net and in other high-traffic areas
give him a lot of goals. Knows where he should be at all times. Decent skater
who will need to work on his explosiveness and agility.
|
118. NEW YORK RANGERS* (acquired from Washington) |
Igor
Shestyorkin – (G) Spartak Moskva, KHL:
Lacks a strong technical base, so he is the prototypical
desperation goalie. Splashes like Magikarp, gets results like Gyarados. Makes
the big saves at the big moment of a game. Is very aware of his surroundings
and will battle to the whistle on every puck for 60 minutes. Despite his
reputation as an acrobat and not a true, well-trained goalie, he covers the
bottom of the net well and has great post-to-post movement. Gets caught biting
early in breakaway situations.
|
119. TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING* (acquired from NY Rangers) |
Ben Thomas
– (D) Calgary Hitmen, WHL:
Well-rounded d-man is a jack of all trades. Demonstrates
excellent poise with the puck, whether it’s making good passes while under
duress or even slick stick-handling moves. Good north-south skater, but should
work on his pivots and skating in transition. Still, when the wheels are in
motion he keeps a good gap and is well-positioned in his own end of the ice.
|
120. LOS ANGELES KINGS |
Steven Johnson – (D) Omaha Lancers, USHL:
Undrafted in 2012 and '13 |
FIFTH ROUND |
121. BUFFALO SABRES |
Max Willman – (C) Williston
Northampton, Prep School (Mass.):
Efficient hockey player, far from an offensive dynamo. Has above
average speed, but won’t blow by defenders. Will use his speed to push the pace
of the game and pressure opponents. Handles the puck well under duress and
knows when to get it off his stick. Has a nose for net and can be trusted to
finish when set up by teammates. Needs to add both upper and lower body
strength. Disciplined in his own end and disciplined mentally so as not to take
dumb penalties.
|
122. NEW YORK RANGERS* (acquired from Florida in exchange for Casey Wellman) |
Richard
Nejezchleb – (RW) Brandon Wheat Kings, WHL:
Undrafted in 2012 and ’13. Big-bodied power forward who
provides a pesky net-front presence every game. Has slow, choppy first steps,
but builds up to a strong stride with good speed. Possesses a heavy shot with
good accuracy. Protects the puck very well. Occasionally gets baited into
taking retaliatory penalties.
|
123. ANAHEIM DUCKS* (acquired from Edmonton in exchange for Viktor Fasth) |
Matthew
Berkovitz – (D) Ashweubenon Jaguars, High School (Wis.):
“Berkovitz is a smooth skating rearguard that makes good
decisions. He reads the play extremely well and in a split second reacts
accordingly. He pushes the puck up ice and defends intelligently using his
stick and by closing off lanes.” – Future Considerations
|
124. ST. LOUIS BLUES* (acquired from Calgary in exchange for Kris Russel) |
Jaedon
Descheneau – (RW) Kootenay Ice, WHL:
The wizard stuck in the body of a munchkin. Shows grade-A
vision and creativity in the o-zone. Shot isn’t half bad, either, but he’s a
pass first player and any teammate benefits offensively from playing with him.
Skates like the wind, but could be more agile. Defensive positioning needs
work, and his small stature keeps him from winning any physical confrontation.
Undrafted in 2013.
|
125. MONTRÉAL CANADIENS* (acquired from NY Islanders in the Thomas Vanek trade) |
Nikolas Koberstein – (RW) Olds Grizzlys, AJHL |
126. VANCOUVER CANUCKS |
Gustav Forsling – (D) Linköpings J20, SuperElit (Sweden)
|
127. CAROLINA HURRICANES |
Clark Bishop – (C) Cape Breton Screaming
Eagles, QMJHL:
With
plenty of heart, Bishop is a threat on forecheck because of his physical nature
and speed. Doesn’t have much skill to his game at all, but can still bang in a
rebound on the doorstep, if the opportunity presents itself. Positions himself
well in his own end, and can be relied on for a big PK.
|
128. TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS |
Dakota Joshua
– (C/LW) Sioux Falls Stampede, USHL:
Already has good size and uses it to his advantage to
protect the puck from opponents. Also likes to utilize his long reach for an
active poke check. His skating technique is fine, but his speed is only average
and will likely improve with much-needed added leg strength. Likes to grind, but
his scoring touch and raw skills give him intriguing offensive upside, too.
|
129. WINNIPEG JETS |
Clinston Franklin – (LW) Sioux Falls Stampede, USHL |
130. EDMONTON OILERS* (acquired from Ottawa in exchange for Aleš Hemský) |
Liam Coughlin – (C/LW) Vernon Vipers, BCHL: Undrafted in 2012 and '13 |
131. NEW JERSEY DEVILS |
Ryan Rehill
– (D) Kamloops Blazers, WHL:
He punches people. Limited in both offensive talent and
mobility. Still, he has defensive zone smarts that make it challenging for
opponents to gain good opportunities. Punishes players in the corners and along
the wall. He also punches people.
|
132. NASHVILLE PREDATORS |
Joonas Lyytinen – (D) KalPa, Liiga (Finland): Undrafted in 2013 |
133. ARIZONA COYOTES |
Dysin Mayo – (D) Edmonton Oil Kings, WHL:
Offensive-minded
defenseman with a great set of wheels. Has good mobility in all directions. Is
very confident with the puck on his stick, sometimes to a fault making
ill-advised pass attempts. Takes a lot of risks jumping into the rush and
pinching in the offensive zone. Does not avoid the physical game at all, and
often connects on open ice hits. Excellent gap control.
|
134. WASHINGTON CAPITALS |
Shane Gersich
– (C) USNTDP, USHL:
Plays an up tempo game and has the skating ability to
push the pace of play every shift. Good face-off man. His skill with the puck
impressive; he’ll pull a rabbit out of his hat every other game. Doesn’t use
his teammates as often as one would like, and his defensive awareness is
lacking. Still, scouts like him on the penalty kill because his speed keeps
attackers on edge. Is unafraid to go to the net and into the corners, but lack
of size and strength render him ineffective.
|
135. DALLAS STARS |
Miro Karjalainen – (D) Jokerit J18, Jr.-B SM-sarja (Finland)
|
136. DETROIT RED WINGS |
Chase Perry
– (G) Wenatchee Wild, NAHL:
Calm, poised, big-bodied netminder who will come out to
cut down angles and has covers the bottom of the net well with his extended
butterfly style. Has solid glove hand and blocker positioning. Won’t allow pucks
to hit him and then “leak” through. Needs to improve his lateral movement.
Highly flexible and athletic, nonetheless, and can make several big saves in a
row.
|
137. COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS* (re-acquired from Edmonton) |
Tyler Bird – (RW) Kimball Union Academy,
Prep School (N.H.):
Has
a pretty good offensive tool box, but nothing that really opens your eyes. Will
battle along the walls and win about half of those battles, and, man, does he
love going for the power move drive to the net. Tends to lose his defensive
assignments, and occasionally leaves the defensive zone too early looking to
get a head start on the rush the other way.
|
138. PHILADELPHIA FLYERS |
Oskar
Lindblom – (RW) Brynäs J20, SuperElit (Sweden):
Responsible forward in his own end bruises defenders at the
other. He’s got a strong, “man” stride, but just doesn’t have explosiveness
coming out a stationary position or overall speed you’d like to see from
someone who already has good lower body strength. His handy-work with the puck
isn’t always pretty, but he possesses a very good snap shot and he’s willing to
bang in the corners and set screens in front to help the offense instead.
|
139. MINNESOTA WILD |
Tanner Faith – (D) Kootenay Ice, WHL |
140. NEW YORK RANGERS* (acquired from Tampa Bay) |
Daniel Walcott – (D) Blainville-Boisbriand Armada, QMJHL |
141. CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS* (acquired from San Jose in a pick-swap from the 2013 Draft) |
Luc Snuggarud
– (D) Eden Prairie Eagles, High School (Minn.):
A great puck-moving defenseman. Makes crisp passes and
will join the rush with authority. Can sometimes wait too long to make a
decision or not have a plan B if one lane is clogged, and get into trouble as a
result. Has an excellent stride and will take off like a rocket if he gets the
chance to wheel around the back of his net. Isn’t as physical as one would like
to see, but he positions himself shrewdly in his own end.
|
142. NEW YORK RANGERS* (acquired from Tampa Bay via St. Louis) |
Tyler Nanne – (D) Edina Hornets, High
School (Minn.):
Intelligent,
puck-rushing d-man who has shown flashes of “game-breaker” ability. He has
top-notch lateral agility and speed in transition. He isn’t big, and he isn’t
muscular, but his strong positioning makes him a good defender in his own right
and a good penalty killer. Gets in trouble with turnovers, and struggled in his
few games in the USHL when his high school season ended. Has a heavy slap shot
that he gets off rather quickly.
|
143. FLORIDA PANTHERS* (acquired from Pittsburgh in exchange for Marcel Goc) |
Miguel Fiddler – (LW) Edina Hornets, High School (Minn.) |
144. COLORADO AVALANCHE |
Anton Lindholm – (D) Skellefteå J20, SuperElit (Sweden) |
145. PITTSBURGH PENGUINS* (acquired from Anaheim in exchange for Ben Lovejoy) |
Anthony Angello – (C) Omaha Lancers, USHL:
“Brash power forward who uses his size to drive the net
and plays an in-your-face type of game. A tenacious fore checker, he is
constantly trying to make plays whether it be with or without the puck. Gangly stride
that is spider-like as his limbs tend to flail all over the place... needs work
on his top gear but with enhancements to his lower body strength he should get
quicker. Just average hockey sense. Showed good resolve in his ability to
shelter the puck down low to make plays while playing a committed physical game”
– McKeen’s Hockey
|
146. BOSTON BRUINS |
Anders Bjork – (C/LW) USNTDP, USHL |
147. MONTRÉAL CANADIENS |
Daniel Audette
– (C) Sherbrooke Phoenix, QMJHL:
Quick, agile, all-directions skater who eludes defenders
with his exceptional skating ability. Knows how to get the puck to a teammate
in scoring space quickly. Great playmaking sense, but not a phenomenal shooter.
Listed as a generous 5’8”, he lacks the size and strength to assert himself
physically in any game and if he doesn’t evade defenders with his top notch skating,
he’s knocked off the puck easily. Doesn’t win many puck battles, but he will
backcheck like a demon.
|
148. CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS |
Andreas Söderberg – (D) Skellefteå
J20, SuperElit (Sweden)
|
149. SAN JOSE SHARKS* (acquired from NY Rangers in the Ryane Clowe trade) |
Rourke Chariter – (C) Kelowna Rockets, WHL |
150. LOS ANGELES KINGS |
Alec Dillon – (G) Victoria Grizzlies, BCHL |
SIXTH ROUND |
151. BUFFALO SABRES |
Christopher Brown – (C) Cranbrook-Kingswood Aardvark, Prep School (Mich.): |
152. NEW JERSEY DEVILS* (acquired from Florida in the Krystopher Barch trade) |
Joey Dudeck – (C) Kimball Union Academy, Prep School (N.H.) |
153. EDMONTON OILERS |
Tyler Vesel – (C) Omaha Lanchers, USHL |
154. DALLAS STARS* (acquired from Calgary in exchange for Lane McDermid) |
Aaron Haydon – (D) Niagara IceDogs, OHL:
Bruiser
on the blue line that strikes fear into soft opponents. Sometimes he crosses
the line with his hits, and he doesn’t always get away with his, um, “liberal”
stick checks. He makes hard, accurate passes, but doesn’t always make the best
decisions with the puck. To his credit, he worked a lot to remedy that this
season. Below average transition skating gets him in trouble.
|
155. NEW YORK ISLANDERS |
Kyle Schempp – (C) Ferris State, NCAA:
Undrafted in 2012 and '13
|
156. VANCOUVER CANUCKS |
Kyle Pettit – (C) Erie Otters, OHL
|
157. LOS ANGELES KINGS* (acquired from Carolina in the Anthony Stewart / Kevin Westgarth trade) |
Jake Marchment – (C) Belleville Bulls, OHL:
Undrafted in 2013.
|
158. TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS |
Nolan Vesey – (LW) South Shore Kings, USHL |
159. WINNIPEG JETS |
Steven Spinner – (RW) Eden Prairie Eagles, High School (Minn.) |
160. MINNESOTA WILD* (acquired from Ottawa in exchange for Matt Kassian) |
Pontus Själin – (D) Östersunkds
IK, Division 1 (Sweden) |
161. NEW JERSEY DEVILS |
Brandon Baddock – (LW) Edmonton Oil Kings, WHL |
162. NASHVILLE PREDATORS |
Aaron Irving – (D) Edmonton Oil Kings, WHL:
Reliable
two-way defender who doesn’t have one outstanding quality. Well-positioned in
his own zone, always maintains a good gap and knows when to close it. Will box
opponents out of the crease, but doesn’t finish his hits with enough
consistency. Shows a good first pass, and his creativity was at a career high
early this past season, but his confidence appeared to dwindle as the year went
on.
|
163. ARIZONA COYOTES |
David Westlund – (D) Brynäs J20, SuperElit (Sweden) |
164. WINNIPEG JETS* (acquired from Washington) |
Pavel Kraskovskiy – (LW) Loko Yaroslavl, MHL
(Russia):
Has
ideal NHL size, but has the muscle mass of a 12-year-old. Plays a smart two-way
game, and could probably kill penalties at the NHL if he progresses properly. Smart
with the puck, as he’ll confidently distribute good passes to open men often.
Operates the half wall well on the PP. Shot is better than average, but nothing
special. His skating needs work. Big time boom or bust.
|
165. DALLAS STARS |
John Nyberg – (LW) Frölunda J20, SuperElit (Sweden) |
166. DETROIT RED WINGS |
Julius Vähätalo – (LW) TPS, Liiga (Finland) |
167. MINNESOTA WILD* (acquired from NY Rangers via Columbus in the Justin Falk trade) |
Chase Lang – (C) Calgary Hitmen, WHL:
|
168. PHILADELPHIA FLYERS |
Radel Fazleev
– (C) Calgary Hitmen, WHL:
Uses great edgework to swerve away from d-men, and added
lower body strength this season to make it harder for him to be knocked off
balance when he’s utilizing his edges. Moreover, he doesn’t move well in
transition and doesn’t have good north-south speed. Does not fear going to
places that get him greasy goals and always finishes his checks. Showed flashes
of good playmaking ability as the season progressed.
|
169. MINNESOTA WILD |
Reid Duke – (C) Lethbridge Hurricanes, WHL |
170. TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING |
Christiano DiGiacinto – (RW) Windsor Spitfires, OHL |
171. SAN JOSE SHARKS |
Kevin LaBanc – (RW) Barrie Colts, OHL |
172. ST. LOUIS BLUES |
Chandler Yakimowicz – (RW) London Knights, OHL |
173. PITTSBURGH PENGUINS |
Jaden Lindo – (RW)
Owen Sound Attack, OHL:
“Possessing a seemingly
non-stop motor, Lindo is quick on the forecheck and a pain to play against. He
plays 200-feet, does the little things and is willing to take the necessary
abuse to help his team win.” – Future Considerations
|
174. COLORADO AVALANCHE |
Maximilian Pajpach – (G) Team Slovakia U18, Slovakia |
175. CALGARY FLAMES* (acquired in exchange for Tim Jackman) |
Adam Ollas Mattsson – (D) Djurgården J20, SuperElit
(Sweden):
Takes his job as a defenseman very seriously. Clears out
the crease, finishes his checks, and makes meeting him along the boards hurt.
Has good reach and uses it to his advantage. Packs a powerful point shot, but
can sometimes stray off-target. If you like defensive zone turnovers, he’s your
guy. He’s not a good skater, either, and didn’t handle quick, shifty opponents
well.
|
176. ST. LOUIS BLUES* (acquired from Boston in exchange for Wade Redden) |
Samuel Blais – (C) Victoriaville Tigres, QMJHL |
177. MONTRÉAL CANADIENS |
Hayden Hawkey – (G) Omaha Lancers, USHL |
178. SAN JOSE SHARKS* (acquired from Chicago during the draft in a pick-swap) |
Dylan Sikura – (C) Aurora Tigers, OJHL |
179. NEW YORK RANGERS |
Ivan Nalimov – (G) SKA St. Petersburg2, MHL (Russia) |
180. LOS ANGELES KINGS |
Matt Mistele – (LW) Plymouth Whalers, OHL:
Very
skilled forward who was also gifted with a big body. Demonstrates great vision
with the puck on his stick, and gets the puck off his stick in a hurry when we
wants to shoot. His shot is always strong and often on target. Isn’t good
defensively, and despite his size, he’s always being outworked for pucks. Bad
habit of waiting for plays to come to him.
|
SEVENTH ROUND |
181. BUFFALO SABRES |
Victor Olofsson – (RW) MODO J20, SuperElit (Sweden) |
182. FLORIDA PANTHERS* (re-acquired from Montréal as a part of the George Parros trade) |
Hugo Fagerblom – (G) Frölunda J18, Junior Allsvenskan (Sweden) |
183. EDMONTON OILERS |
Keven Bouchard – (G) Val-d'Or Foreurs, QMJHL |
184. CALGARY FLAMES |
Austin Carroll – (RW) Victoria Royals, WHL |
185. NEW YORK ISLANDERS |
Cameron Darcy – (C) Cape Breton Screaming Eagles, QMJHL |
186. VANCOUVER CANUCKS |
Mackenzie Stewart – (D) Prince Albert Raiders, WHL |
187. CAROLINA HURRICANES |
Kyle Jenkins – (D) Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds, OHL |
188. TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS |
Pierre Engvall
– (LW) Frölunda
J20, SuperElit (Sweden):
Energizer bunny who pairs a high compete level with
natural goal scoring ability. Consistently goes to tough areas around the net
and bangs in pucks on the doorstep. His shooting ability goes well beyond just
smacking in rebounds, though. He has a quick release with pin-point accuracy. His
hands are below average, however, and he plays heads down hockey with the puck
on his stick. Wears down defenders on the forecheck every game. Well positioned
defensively.
|
189. OTTAWA SENATORS* (acquired from Winnipeg) |
Kelly Summers
– (D) Carleton Place Canadians, CCHL:
“Summers is best when he
keeps things simple and more often than not that is just what he does. Poised
under pressure, makes accurate breakout passes, chips the puck out of danger.
Uses his size to defend and block shots, but not enough physically. Not great
feet but improving.” – Future Considerations
|
190. OTTAWA SENATORS |
Francis Perron
– (LW) Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, QMJHL:
Playmaker with above average wheels. Biggest concern is
his inconsistent attitude when it comes to mucking and grinding to make plays.
Some nights, he’ll put in the work and his team benefits greatly, while other
nights it’s like he’s allergic to the boards. Anticipates plays well, and great
on the man advantage.
|
191. ARIZONA COYOTES* (acquired from New Jersey in exchange for Steve Sullivan) |
Jared Feigl – (LW) USNTDP, USHL |
192. WINNIPEG JETS* (acquired from Washington via Nashville) |
Matt Ustaski – (LW) Langley Rivermen, BCHL: Undrafted in 2012 and '13 |
193. ARIZONA COYOTES |
Edgars Kulda – (LW) – Edmonton Oil Kings,
WHL:
Undrafted
in 2013 after a very modest rookie year in the WHL, Kulda exploded for almost
four times the offense this season and was named Memorial Cup MVP. A quick
skater and tireless worker, he gets himself into scoring position to release an
accurate shot, though his release isn’t all that quick. Will go to the dirty
areas, but won’t outmuscle many off the puck. Is a trigger man, not a set-up
man. Supports the puck well and will backcheck consistently.
|
194. WASHINGTON CAPITALS |
Keven Elgestål – (LW/RW) Frölunda J20, SuperElit (Sweden) |
195. DALLAS STARS |
Patrick Sanvido – (D) Windsor Spitfires, OHL |
196. DETROIT RED WINGS |
Axel Holmström – (C) Skellefteå J20, SuperElit (Sweden) |
197. COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS |
Olivier LeBlanc – (D) Saint John Sea Dogs,
QMJHL:
He’s
small, for sure, but he makes up for it with his reliable play. Breaks the
stereotype of undersized d-men, who are thought to be all run-and-gun
offensive-minded water bugs. Makes shrewd decisions with the puck, can thread
the needle on stretch passes, but doesn’t project as much of an offensive
defenseman. Competes along the boards and comes up with surprisingly good
contact on his hits. Plays in all situations because of his smarts in all three
zones.
|
198. PHILADELPHIA FLYERS |
Jesper Pettersson – (D) Linköpings, SHL (Sweden): Undrafted in 2013. |
199. MINNESOTA WILD |
Pavel Jenyš
– (C) Kometa Brno, Extraliga (Czech):
“Has great size and willingness to use it in corner
battles as well as in front of the oppositions cage. Has a good shot that is
both hard and accurate. Lacks touch on his passes and can over handle the puck.
Does not always bring the same high level of effort each game.” – Future Considerations
|
200. NEW YORK ISLANDERS* (acquired from Tampa Bay) |
Lukas Sutter – (C) Red Deer Rebels, WHL:
Drafted in 2012 by Winnipeg, then ent unsigned and re-entered the draft. A
gritty two-way player, most offensive opportunities come as a result of his
physical play. Face-offs are a strength, too. Has decent bursts of speed, but his sloppy stride holds him back from developing good speed. Prone to taking stupid penalties.
|
201. DETROIT RED WINGS* (acquired from San Jose in exchange for the rights to Brad Stuart) |
Alexander Kadeykin – (C) Atlant Mitischchi, KHL (Russia): Undrafted in 2012 and '13. |
202. ST. LOUIS BLUES |
Dwyers Tschantz – (RW) Indiana Ice, USHL |
203. PITTSBURGH PENGUINS |
Jeff Taylor – (D) Union College, NCAA: Undrafted in 2012 and '13 |
204. COLORADO AVALANCHE |
Julien Nantel – (C/LW) Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, QMJHL:"A solid skating two-way forward who will use his frame to protect the puck, has a scorers shot with quick release and knows where to go in the offensive zone to get that scoring chance. Consistency in his efforts needs to be improved." - Future Considerations |
205. ANAHEIM DUCKS* (re-acquired from Toronto as a part of the Peter Holland trade) |
Ondřej Kaše – (C/RW) Piráti Chomutov,
Extraliga (Czech):
Versatile
speed-skating forward with tons of creativity. Makes crisp passes and attempts
to thread the needle on plays some players wouldn’t even dream of trying.
Sometimes that gets him in trouble, but when it works, it’s awe-inspiring. He
goes to battle along the boards, but his lack of strength prevents him from
doing much once he’s there. Gets knocked off the puck a little too easily. A
talented puck-handler, but unlike his passes, he won’t try anything he know he
won’t get away with; no dangling for dangling’s sake. Owns a decent shot, but
needs to hit the net.
|
206. BOSTON BRUINS |
Emil Johansson – (D) HV 71 U20, SuperElit (Sweden) |
207. MONTRÉAL CANADIENS |
Jake Evans – (C/RW) St. Michael's Buzzers, OJHL |
208. CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS |
Jack Ramsey – (C) Penticton Vees, BCHL |
209. LOS ANGELES KINGS* |