The draft has arrived. Here's our detailed analysis of every pick from the first round, including a look into the scouting notebook and a glimpse at how each player fits with his new NHL team.
For more analysis, be sure to check out out in-depth team-by-team draft grades and more on our draft landing page.
Let's get into it. With the first pick of the 2018 NHL draft, the Buffalo Sabres select...
1. Buffalo Sabres: Rasmus Dahlin, D, Frolunda (Sweden)
Draft board ranking: 1
Age: 18 | Shoots: L | Ht: 6-2 | Wt: 181 | Nat: SWE
41 GP | 7 G | 13 A
Scouting report:
Team fit: Dahlin won't instantly change the fortunes of the Sabres, but he gives the team something it has wanted for decades. Projected easily as a No. 1 defenseman, Dahlin should make an immediate impact next season possibly as a top-pairing defenseman. Buffalo has a bit of a shallow defensive group, so it will be difficult to insulate him or ease him into things without making an additional move or two, but he's a smart enough player to be able to adapt.
2. Carolina Hurricanes: Andrei Svechnikov, RW, Barrie (OHL)
Draft board ranking: 2
Age: 18 | Shoots: L | Ht: 6-2 | Wt: 188 | Nat: RUS
44 GP | 40 G | 32 A
Scouting report: An elite goal scorer and powerful skater, Svechnikov has a chance to jump right into the NHL and contribute. With 40 goals in just 44 games with Barrie this season, Svechnikov's 0.91 goals per game is not terribly far off from the pace of McDavid (0.94) and Steven Stamkos (0.95) in their draft-eligible seasons in the OHL. In fact, looking at the past decade of U-18 goal-scoring rates in the OHL, Svechnikov had one of the best seasons over that span. Svechnikov can score his goals a variety of ways. He has the power and strength to get to the front of the net, as well as the elite shot to beat goalies from any distance. He's also exceptional when it comes to shooting off the pass. Much of his success offensively comes from his legs, with an ability to beat defenders wide, exploit teams in transition and drive to the net. One potential point of concern is what will happen when Svechnikov's power game is no longer the decisive advantage that it is at the junior level. He has high-level instincts in the offensive zone, and his hand skills are above average. He always seems to find himself in good positions, but he can make quick decisions under pressure and find a way to get his shot off. Additionally, he's adequate away from the puck, can get engaged physically and has a solid work ethic on the ice.
Team fit: Svechnikov believes he can be a top-six winger immediately, and I agree with him. If the Canes paired him with a high-end playmaker like Sebastian Aho, it's not hard to imagine him making an instant impact. With his size and strength, he's ready for the next level and should add another high-end offensive asset to the roster from opening night.
3. Montreal Canadiens: Jesperi Kotkaniemi, C, Assat (Finland)
Draft board ranking: 8
Age: 17 | Shoots: L | Ht: 6-2 | Wt: 188 | Nat: FIN
57 GP | 10 G | 19 A
Scouting report: One of the big risers for me this season, Kotkaniemi grows on me with each viewing. To me, he's the top center in the draft by a fairly large margin due to his combination of power, skill and all-around instincts. He is committed to playing a tough game in all zones, engages physically and has high-end puck skills that make him an offensive threat. While a natural center, he played primarily on the wing in the pro ranks. Kotkaniemi finished third among U-20 players in Liiga play with 29 points; only Jets first-rounder Kristian Vesalainen and 1998-born Jerry Turkulainen were ahead of him. Playing a regular shift in Liiga at 17 and producing at the rate he did is pretty impressive. In fact, his 29 points rank eighth all time for a U-18 player in Liiga, notably ahead of former first-rounders such as Jesse Puljujarvi, Tuomo Ruutu and Teuvo Teravainen. Kotkaniemi also dominated in his age group's international tournaments playing center.
Team fit: The Canadiens were in desperate need of centers, and they took the best one, even though he might not have been the best player available. Kotkaniemi is unlikely to be ready to take the next step next season, but he performed very well in the professional ranks in Finland, where he played mostly on the wing. As long as he has a chance to play as a center next season with Assat, where he remains under contract, Montreal should probably be patient with him.
4. Ottawa Senators: Brady Tkachuk, LW, Boston University (Hockey East)
Draft board ranking: 4
Age: 18 | Shoots: L | Ht: 6-3 | Wt: 196 | Nat: USA
40 GP | 8 G | 23 A
Scouting report: "He's just a junkyard dog," as Team USA world juniors coach Bob Motzko said while Tkachuk starred at the tournament. That remains my favorite description of Tkachuk. Taking all of the qualities of his physical play and combining that with his elite hockey sense, better-than-average puck skills for a big man and a commitment to being a force in all zones, Tkachuk can help a team in so many ways. Playing with the edge that has become a family trademark -- dad Keith and brother Matthew have displayed it in their own NHL careers -- I can't imagine Brady Tkachuk is very fun to line up against. But you have to be more than be big and tough. That's where the hockey sense becomes a separating factor. Tkachuk made confident plays with the puck on his stick during his college days. When he was out there, there was a good chance BU was tilting the ice in their favor. However, that didn't always lead to offense, as he scored just eight goals this season, despite averaging more than three shots on goal per game (131). Tkachuk's point total certainly isn't eye-popping, but I've had a hard time running into scouts who wouldn't have taken him in the top five.
Team fit: The Senators are in a really interesting place. If they're planning to rebuild, it might not make sense to bring Tkachuk into the fold next season and burn a year of his entry-level contract. They have the option of letting him return to Boston University to spend a year tacking on even more strength. If they do sign him, they could bring him to the NHL roster, put him in the AHL or let him go to OHL London. However, Tkachuk grades out long term as a top-line power winger who helps at both ends of the ice. He also is lauded for his maturity and character, which should help him as he enters a transitional situation in Ottawa.
5. Arizona Coyotes: Barrett Hayton, C, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)
Draft board ranking: 14
Age: 18 | Shoots: L | Ht: 6-1 | Wt: 190 | Nat: CAN
63 GP | 21 G | 39 A
Scouting report: Not flashy, just effective. Hayton is good at a lot of little detail things. It's why he was able to play a substantial role on one of the deepest and most talented teams in junior hockey this season. Despite his youth, Hayton could be trusted to do pretty much whatever was needed of him. It speaks to how smart of a player he is and the kind of versatility he has. In some ways, it seems like the game slows down a bit for him and he's able to dictate. He doesn't have amazing puck skills, but he uses his frame well and seems to have a knack for where to be in all zones. Hayton is a fluid skater who has an efficient glide. He's not a burner by any means, but he gets up and down the ice well. He's a well-rounded center but lacks a dynamic element.
Team fit: Nobody saw this one coming, but Hayton is a very mature center who played a huge role with the Soo Greyhounds and helped drive them to one of the better seasons in all of junior hockey. It is unlikely he will be ready next season but should get a considerable look in camp. The Coyotes won't need to rush him, though. Meanwhile, it's incredibly surprising they decided to go with Hayton with such a high-end scoring wing like Filip Zadina still on the board. If not him, many thought the Coyotes would go for a defenseman.
6. Detroit Red Wings: Filip Zadina, RW, Halifax (QMJHL)
Draft board ranking: 3
Age: 18 | Shoots: L | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 195 | Nat: CZE
57 GP | 44 G | 38 A
Scouting report: I think Zadina has a chance to be a major contributor and could make the NHL as early as next season. His offensive skills obviously jump out, but I've always been impressed by the energy with which he plays, his relentlessness in puck pursuit and his commitment to doing whatever is necessary. He nearly made the Czech Republic's team for the world championships but was one of the last cuts. He showed he could hang with pros during the pre-tournament exhibitions, a nice follow-up to his stellar world junior championship and strong junior season with the Halifax Mooseheads. Zadina does so many things well, but his ability to make plays at high speeds, transition quickly from defending to attacking and score goals at a high rate helped him secure his lofty position in this draft class. While I think Svechnikov and Oliver Wahlstrom are better scorers, Zadina is not far off. His shot is high-end. He has the puck skills to beat defenders one-on-one, create extra space for himself and give himself more options. He also has the patience to make higher-quality plays.
Team fit: The Red Wings were especially fortunate to have the two teams ahead of them draft centers because they add an elite offensive producer into the fold. Zadina can step into their lineup right away, possibly even into their top six and make Detroit a better team. I think Detroit might have preferred to go defense here, but you can't blame the Wings for jumping on Zadina.
7. Vancouver Canucks: Quinn Hughes, D, Michigan (Big Ten)
Draft board ranking: 5
Age: 18 | Shoots: L | Ht: 5-10 | Wt: 170 | Nat: USA
37 GP | 5 G | 24 A
Scouting report: Perhaps the best skater in the draft, Hughes had an exceptional season in the college ranks and showed recently that he might not be terribly far from pro-readiness with a solid showing at the men's world championship in Denmark. He is very offense-minded, sometimes jumping into plays to the point where he's leading the rush instead of supporting it. That might rub some coaches the wrong way, but Hughes has had a high level of success so far. He averaged 0.78 points per game, which puts Hughes among a pretty small group of under-19 defensemen over the past decade. He also is one of the highest-scoring defensemen in the history of the vaunted National Team Development Program, ranking fifth all time with 77 career points for a NHL prospect factory. Despite his size, Hughes also has proven to be an above-average defender, thanks to a good defensive stick and excellent use of body position and angling to cut down bigger players. That last part comes from his elite-level skating, which is among the best I've seen for a draft-eligible defenseman in a long time. His feet get him out of trouble regularly, allow him to get out of his zone and make him a threat offensively. Hughes also has excellent puck-retrieval skills, which he combines with exceptionally quick decision-making to help aid his team's transition. His first touch on pucks, regardless of how they come to him, is one of the details in his game that I find particularly impressive. He absolutely takes risks, and sometimes he'll force things too much, but the potential for reward with what he does allows you to live with it.
Team fit: The Canucks were expected to go with a defenseman, and they get an absolutely dynamic one with Hughes. His NHL timeline is going to be interesting to follow because the team has many options. After the way he played in the Men's World Championship, he showed he could hang with pros. Patrick Kane recently said at USA Hockey's banquet that he hoped he could play with Hughes again after being wowed by him at that tournament. That won't happen now. Long term, Hughes should be an offensive asset and a top-pairing defenseman. He jumps to the No. 2 prospect in this team's pool right behind high-scoring sensation Elias Pettersson.
8. Chicago Blackhawks: Adam Boqvist, D, Brynas Jr. (Sweden-Jr.)
Draft board ranking: 7
Age: 17 | Shoots: R | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 168 | Nat: SWE
25 GP | 14 G | 10 A
Scouting report: In a growing line of dynamic Swedish defensemen, Boqvist is another exciting one. One scout described how Boqvist skates faster with the puck on his stick. He's particularly good at the offensive blue line, where he shows great confidence in handling the puck and opens up a lot of options for both himself and teammates with his patience. Of the defensemen in this draft, Boqvist might have the best shot, with a quick release that helps him gets pucks on net in a hurry. He also manages to get pucks through better than most of his peers. Boqvist played primarily in the junior ranks this season, dominating the Swedish U-20 division while struggling a bit more at the pro level, especially with the pace of the game. That will get corrected with time. Boqvist is not an NHL-ready prospect, but is a player with a remarkably high ceiling. I don't know that he tops out as a No. 1, but he certainly has top-pairing potential. He plays a style that is so valued in today's game with his ability to stretch the ice and create offense from the blue line. As he gets stronger, gets more reps at the professional level and just keeps working, he has a chance to be a special player.
Team fit: For the second straight year, the Blackhawks draft a highly-skilled right-shot defenseman. Boqvist is an elite puck mover who is going to need time to get stronger and get more reps in the pro ranks. It is believed Boqvist prefers to return to play in the Swedish Hockey League next season with Brynas after playing most of this season on its U20 team. I believe Boqvist will probably need a season or two before he's ready to hop into the Blackhawks' lineup.
9. New York Rangers: Vitali Kravtsov, RW, Chelyabinsk (Russia)
Draft board ranking: 23
Age: 18 | Shoots: L | Ht: 6-2 | Wt: 170 | Nat: RUS
35 GP | 4 G | 3 A
Scouting report: A highly-skilled player with size, Kravtsov really shot up the charts with his playoff performance in the KHL. The big winger had 11 points in 16 games for Traktor in the postseason, a new high-water mark for players under the age of 20 in the Gagarin Cup playoffs. Kravtsov's ability to attack opposing players and confidence in making plays at a time of year when it's harder to do those kinds of things really stood out. His puck skills are high end, and he has a good shot. He's still developing more of a power game, but already shows a propensity for getting to the middle of the ice and going to the harder areas for the sake of offense. Relative to the class, he seems like a bit of a late bloomer, having never played for Russia at any major international event.
Team fit: The KHL rookie of the year has been a huge mover up draft boards since he dominated the KHL playoffs. Kravtsov has a good mix of skill and size. It is unclear what his contract status is in the KHL, but another season or two in Russia where he can be a top-line player will get him to the Rangers ready to make an impact. The fact that the Rangers opted not to take either of the top defensemen available (Noah Dobson or Evan Bouchard) was quite surprising.
10. Edmonton Oilers: Evan Bouchard, D, London (OHL)
Draft board ranking: 9
Age: 18 | Shoots: R | Ht: 6-2 | Wt: 193 | Nat: CAN
67 GP | 25 G | 62 A
Scouting report: Bouchard makes a lot of things look pretty easy. He plays the game at his own pace with very few wasted movements. He's very relaxed thanks to high-end offensive sense and maturity with the puck on his stick. Bouchard has elite-level distribution skills, which allow him to find teammates in space and get the puck out of his own zone quickly. He's a solid defender who can engage physically, though no one would confuse him for a shutdown type. Bouchard was the top-scoring defenseman in the OHL by nine points this season. His 87 points in 67 games put him eighth overall in the league. It's also the fourth-highest scoring season in the OHL for a defenseman at any age over the past 20 years. The only defensemen ahead of Bouchard are Ryan Ellis (twice) and Anthony DeAngelo. It's eye-popping, especially considering Bouchard was one of only a few remaining top players London held on to after the OHL trade deadline this year. He played a mountain of minutes and helped keep the Knights competitive after losing so many talented players. One of the knocks on Bouchard is that despite his high numbers, he doesn't have a lot of dynamic elements in his game outside of being a good passer. He has good mobility, good awareness, adequate defensive skills and a decent physical game. His maturity will be tested at the next level when he has more experienced, craftier players he'll have to contend with.
Team fit: The Oilers had been rumored to be shopping the pick for instant defense help, but were pretty fortunate to have one of the best defensemen in the draft drop to them. Bouchard is a late-1999 birthdate, and I wouldn't be surprised to see him given an honest chance to make the team in camp. It is especially helpful to Edmonton that Bouchard is a right shot, which is its biggest area of need right now. I think it's more likely he spends one more season in London, but he should be the power-play quarterback of the future for the Oilers.
11. New York Islanders: Oliver Wahlstrom, RW, USA U18 (NTDP)
Draft board ranking: 6
Age: 18 | Shoots: R | Ht: 6-1 | Wt: 205 | Nat: USA
62 GP | 48 G | 46 A
Scouting report: Wahlstrom has such a natural ability to find the net, but he needs to work on his game away from the puck and needs to establish consistency of effort. I've seen marked progression in his game over multiple viewings this season. The American came into the year stronger, developed more of a power game and became more of a physical force. While his defensive game is subpar, his offensive game is elite. For a kid who was a viral sensation by age 9 with his highlight-reel shootout attempts at TD Garden, Wahlstrom doesn't overly rely on his hands, which are above average. He is starting to separate himself with his skating, as well. He has a powerful stride and continues to get faster, which allows him to exploit gaps and play with speed in transition. Wahlstrom averaged 4.6 shots per game this season with an astonishing 288 shots on goal, 48 of which went in the net. On top of having a tremendous release, Wahlstrom's shot is deceptive, accurate and heavy. The puck explodes off his stick, challenging every goalie he comes across.
Team fit: This couldn't have worked out better for the Islanders. Wahlstrom is an elite scorer who will benefit greatly from having a high-end center to help get him the puck. He'd actually look really good alongside Mathew Barzal, long term. Wahlstrom is committed to go to Boston College, but I wouldn't be shocked to see New York give him a chance to play in the AHL next season. Either way, he's probably going to need a year to get up to NHL game speed, but this is a huge get for the Isles.
12. New York Islanders: Noah Dobson, D, Acadie-Bathurst (QMJHL)
Draft board ranking: 10
Age: 18 | Shoots: R | Ht: 6-3 | Wt: 180 | Nat: CAN
67 GP | 17 G | 52 A
Scouting report: For the entire season, I've had such a hard time slotting Dobson. He has many fans in the scouting community due to his solid defensive game. He showed this year that his offensive instincts are better than previously believed, as he tends to identify opportunities for offense really well. That was on display at the Memorial Cup, as he helped Acadie-Bathurst win the title while playing a ton of minutes and contributing at both ends of the ice. He is possibly one of the best pure defenders in the draft. His awareness, positioning, gap control and battle level along the walls and at the net front all put him on good footing to be a top-four defenseman at the next level. A lot gets thrown at him in his role with the Titan, and he just handles it all. I think Dobson skates fine, though I'm not enamored with his stride. He gets to where he needs to be, and I think he's efficient in how he uses the ice, especially in his ability to close on opposing attackers. Dobson has a solid frame with room to get a bit bigger and stronger. What I've seen out of Dobson is he carries himself like a pro, plays a pro-friendly game and will probably be the kind of prospect a team doesn't have to worry about as he gets into its system.
Team fit: Getting the top defenseman left on the board is another great draft moment for the Islanders. Dobson was believed to be moving up boards, especially after his incredible Memorial Cup run. Now the Isles have a player who could potentially push for a spot next season. I can't see him being any more than a season away. This organization has steadily built a very strong group of young defensemen, and Dobson might have the highest upside of all of them.
13. Dallas Stars: Ty Dellandrea, C, Flint (OHL)
Draft board ranking: 26
Age: 17 | Shoots: R | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 185 | Nat: CAN
67 GP | 27 G | 32 A
Scouting report: I think his skill level showed more as the season progressed. Despite playing on a poor team in Flint, Dellandrea still took over some games. That's not easy to do when there's so much focus on you as the team's best forward. While his production isn't necessarily jumping out at anybody, his continued improvement over the course of the year should. I think he has higher-end puck skills, possesses the confidence to make plays and is a good enough skater to give opposing teams problems. I'd expect a big step forward from him next season assuming he gets a little stronger and maybe gets some help in Flint.
Team fit: Dallas often bucks with convention when it picks in the first round. Sometimes it has worked, many times it hasn't. Dellandrea was a real riser up the charts throughout the season, starting the year looking like a second-rounder before moving up into the first-round conversation. I think his U18 World Championship performance put him over the top. He needs a lot more time to develop and get stronger, but the Stars won't need him right away. This remains a very surprising and probably a little risky pick, but Dellandrea grew on me all season. This just goes to show how valuable centers still are to teams.
14. Philadelphia Flyers: Joel Farabee, LW, USA U18 (NTDP)
Draft board ranking: 13
Age: 18 | Shoots: L | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 164 | Nat: USA
62 GP | 33 G | 43 A
Scouting report: Few players mix work ethic with skill the way Farabee does. Unafraid to go to the hard areas of the ice and possessing a commitment to a solid all-around game, Farabee checks a lot of boxes, including his overall smarts. Good hockey sense allows Farabee to excel in a variety of roles, but he has enough skill to be a higher-end contributor. While he lacks dynamic puck skills, Farabee is both effective with the puck on his stick and possesses good speed. He finds ways to create extra space for himself and has an ability to make good decisions under pressure. His competitive edge allows him to hang onto the puck a little bit longer to shake off the check and make a better play than what's immediately available to him. Farabee also has a solid shot. Slated to attend Boston University next season, Farabee will have a chance to tack on the needed muscle to maximize his playing style.
Team fit: Farabee is a very good stylistic fit for the Flyers. He does a lot of the dirty work and just hunts pucks, all while playing the game at a very high pace. You should probably pencil the talented winger in for at least two seasons at Boston University before he makes the jump as he needs to continue building strength to be more effective in his style. Scouts love guys like him because he has great skill and a motor that won't quit. It's easy to see why the Flyers picked him here.
15. Florida Panthers: Grigori Denisenko, LW, Yaroslavl 2 (Russia-Jr.)
Draft board ranking: 12
Age: 17 | Shoots: R | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 176 | Nat: RUS
31 GP | 9 G | 13 A
Scouting report: One of the more dynamic players in the draft, Denisenko has an element of entertainment in his game. Despite not having great size, he's got some grittiness to him and sometimes plays over the edge a little bit. The offensive skills are certainly the standout elements of his game with a great combination of shifty skating, top-end puck-handling, tremendous passing skills -- including high-end vision -- and simple offensive know-how. Pair Denisenko with a high-end shooter, and you've got a match made in heaven, as he is certainly a pass-first player. While he prefers to dish the puck, he can absolutely shoot it with a quick release, too. His play away from the puck is fair, but certainly will need some work.
Team fit: The Panthers have gone more heavily toward skill in their recent drafts, and it has been paying off in a pretty significant way. Denisenko really fits into that mold as one of the more creative players in this draft. He also has a bit of nastiness to him that probably put him over the top in scouts' minds. Because the Panthers have built a pretty solid system and have a good young core, they could take on the risk of him not coming to North America for a while. Florida fans should be patient but excited about the upside that comes with betting on skill.
16. Colorado Avalanche: Martin Kaut, RW, Pardubice (Czech)
Draft board ranking: 25
Age: 18 | Shoots: R | Ht: 6-2 | Wt: 176 | Nat: CZE
38 GP | 9 G | 7 A
Scouting report: After a standout World Juniors performance, Kaut really started garnering attention. He was playing on the top line with Filip Zadina and Martin Necas and was far from a passenger with those two elite players. Kaut was more of a playmaker on that line, happy to set up the other two for the goals and playing a key role in puck possession. His patience with the puck and offensive vision are of the high-end variety. The only U20 player in the Czech pro ranks with more points than his 16 was Necas, who is presently among the best prospects in hockey.
Team fit: Kaut is an interesting choice here, especially after teams were starting to cool on him a bit when he was sent home from the combine with a health issue. He has a clean bill of health, according to reports, so there's no concern there now. The Avs have been really loading up their prospect system, and I know there are a few scouts out there who love his upside. Right wing was a position of need within Colorado's system, and as a late birthdate who played professionally last season, Kaut's timeline might be a little shorter. I think there were better options on the board for the Avalanche, and they might have even been trying to trade down as they were a little late to the podium, but Kaut should be a long-term fit in Colorado's middle six.
17. New Jersey Devils: Ty Smith, D, Spokane (WHL)
Draft board ranking: 16
Age: 18 | Shoots: L | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 175 | Nat: CAN
69 GP | 14 G | 59 A
Scouting report: It has been a year of ups and downs for Smith, but I'm a big believer in his offensive capabilities, and I think he has shown a commitment this season to becoming a better defender. It's hard to deny what he's able to do with the puck on his stick and his strong skating ability. He finished second among all defensemen in the WHL with 73 points. His distribution skills are unquestionably high end. He doesn't always make perfect decisions with the puck, but he's certainly the kind of guy you're comfortable with when he does have it. He should be a power-play quarterback at the next level, as he is now. When Smith is at his best, he can dictate the game from the back end. When he's off his game, however, you start seeing him try to do too much and get himself into trouble. His positioning and awareness in his own end are fine, but he's going to have to simply find a way to be tougher to play against while on defense. Part of that is building strength. While there is a good amount of risk in Smith's game, there's bankable skill that is at a premium in today's NHL.
Team fit: Smith's stock had been falling over the second half of the season, but the dynamic elements of his game show that New Jersey remains on trend by putting a higher focus on skill. The Devils have a very specific style of prospect they want, valuing speed and skill mixed with a high level of competitiveness. Smith is a guy who can help them get up the ice quickly, but he is going to need more time to refine his game. He could be a bit of a longer-range prospect unless he takes some massive leaps in development next season.
18. Columbus Blue Jackets: Liam Foudy, C, London (OHL)
Draft board ranking: 32
Age: 18 | Shoots: L | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 175 | Nat: CAN
65 GP | 24 G | 16 A
Scouting report: One of the biggest risers this draft season, Foudy really flourished once London traded away many of its star players. The lack of opportunity was undoubtedly holding Foudy back, but it's never a guarantee a player will respond when given the chance. Foudy, however, exploded. Once he got more ice time and got more confident in it, he became an offensive force. One of the most agile skaters in this draft class, Foudy attacks with speed, can take defenders wide and gets through the neutral zone in an awful hurry. He has the offensive sense to exploit gaps and enough puck skills to make plays in tight spaces. He averaged better than a point per game over the second half of the season after a very quiet first half.
Team fit: Foudy's stock had been skyrocketing since he took a more substantial role after the London Knights traded away all their stars and he got more ice time. His speed is a huge asset, and the Blue Jackets definitely want to get faster. Foudy is going to need another year or two in that top-line role to really master it, but there's no question he is one of the best athletes in this draft. This is a reach for me, but teams in the Blue Jackets' position can take those chances now.
19. Philadelphia Flyers: Jay O'Brien, C, Thayer Academy (HS)
Draft board ranking: 74
Age: 18 | Shoots: R | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 185 | Nat: USA
30 GP | 43 G | 37 A
Scouting report: One of the more highly regarded players to come out of the U.S. prep or high school ranks this year, O'Brien has enough offensive talent and his athleticism is a big part of what intrigues me about him. He's going to Providence College, where he's going to get some of the best coaching college hockey has to offer with Nate Leaman at the helm of the Friars.
Team fit: There is always a certain level of risk in taking a prep school or high school player in the first round. It doesn't happen nearly as much as it used to, and with good reason. They're harder to project. O'Brien is a fine player, but he is years away. Having multiple picks likely made the Flyers more eager to take a chance on him here, because it was less likely he'd be there when they picked in the second round. That said, when O'Brien was away from his prep school team and playing with the U.S. National U18 Team and the Youngstown Phantoms, he showed he needs time to adjust to a higher pace of play. He's going to a great situation with Providence, but I'm admittedly puzzled by this pick.
20. Los Angeles Kings: Rasmus Kupari, C, Karpat (Finland)
Draft board ranking: 15
Age: 18 | Shoots: R | Ht: 6-1 | Wt: 183 | Nat: FIN
39 GP | 6 G | 8 A
Scouting report: An average-sized center, Kupari gets by on quickness and skill. He essentially played a third-line role for Karpat in Finland's top pro league this season. There were times when it appeared the pro game overwhelmed him, but he hit his stride in the latter half of the season and became a player the club didn't want to give up for the World U18 Championship. After Karpat was bounced, he was released, and made Finland better as they ended up winning the gold medal. His conditioning allows Kupari to maintain a pretty consistent level, especially when playing for the national team. It's harder to establish that at the pro level. That said, there's a craftiness to his game on top of the speed. Kupari can play in a lot of different situations due to good hockey sense. He's still a bit of a tough player to gauge, as he could stand to be a little more dynamic, but he's got some solid offensive tools.
Team fit: The Kings have been saying how much they need to add skill to their organization, and Kupari definitely does that. His speed will also bring a needed element to the Kings' organization. He is a natural center, but I'd be willing to bet Kupari ends up on the wing to maximize his scoring potential. This is a very nice addition to a prospect pool that has taken significant steps forward after a few seasons of trading picks to chase Stanley Cups.
21. San Jose Sharks: Ryan Merkley, D, Guelph (OHL)
Draft board ranking: 41
Age: 17 | Shoots: R | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 170 | Nat: CAN
63 GP | 13 G | 54 A
Scouting report: Merkley is an absolute lightning rod. Most agree he has elite offensive skills, but his lack of detail defensively and character concerns are worrisome. All of that aside, Merkley is one of the best passers in this draft, possessing elite vision and some of the best hands of any defenseman available. Defensively, he's not much to write home about, though I did manage to see one of his better defensive performances live, which tells me he can do the job when he's engaged, but not knowing what you're going to get from one game to the next is a very real concern. He's only 17, and you can't necessarily project how a player is going to mature and evolve.
Team fit: It was a big question whether or not a team would take a risk on Merkley in the first round. Multiple teams did not have him on their board to be drafted. This is a pretty off-brand pick for the Sharks who often make the "safe choice." This is a big bet. Even though I had Merkley lower on my board, I can't deny his offensive talent. Merkley told me at the combine that he is taking steps to address some of his attitude and frustration issues that have gotten him in trouble. If he can find it in him to improve his defending and remove some of the off-ice concerns, this could look really smart in a few years. There isn't a more "boom-or-bust" prospect in this draft.
22. New York Rangers: K'Andre Miller, D, USA U18 (NTDP)
Draft board ranking: 17
Age: 18 | Shoots: L | Ht: 6-3 | Wt: 206 | Nat: USA
58 GP | 9 G | 20 A
Scouting report: It has been a year of growth for Miller, who didn't have a whole lot of physical growing to do. Pound-for-pound one of the strongest players in the draft, Miller spent much of the year rounding out his game and furthering his education as a defenseman. It's only the third year Miller has been a defenseman after converting to the position as a sophomore in high school. The physical strength is a nice attribute, but not as valuable in a teenage prospect as it will be down the line. I've seen improvement in his skating with good north-south speed and improved footwork. He has become more confident with the puck, making good passes and carrying it a little bit more. His confidence in jumping into plays still has a ways to go, but that's coming along, as well. His hand skills are pretty good for a bigger defenseman. His defending is also another area where I've seen remarkable improvement. Miller keeps a lot in front of him, uses his size to keep players to the outside and can lower the boom. The University of Wisconsin has been a factory for NHL defensemen over the years, so he'll be in a good spot to take the next step.
Team fit: The Rangers are going to have to be patient, but Miller has really grown on scouts all season. He needs time to refine his game at both ends of the ice, but toward the end of this season, you could see things were clicking. His upside is enormous, though, given his brief time playing the position. He's already where he needs to be physically, but you know he'll only get stronger. He could be a monster at the next level if he hits his ceiling. Despite the inherent risk with taking a player who still has a lot of developing to do, he was worth trading up for.
23. Anaheim Ducks: Isac Lundestrom, C, Lulea (Sweden)
Draft board ranking: 18
Age: 18 | Shoots: L | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 185 | Nat: SWE
42 GP | 6 G | 9 A
Scouting report: At only 18 years old, Lundestrom has spent two full seasons in the SHL with Lulea. He showed considerable progression this season, both offensively and from an overall maturity standpoint. He could be relied upon more, playing a top-six role, which allowed him more chances to produce. Additionally, Lundestrom has a commitment to defense, with the added ability of being able to quickly transition. He's a good skater with some power elements in his game thanks to a sturdy frame and strong legs. While at the World Junior Championship, Sweden often started with Lundestrom's line to set the tone for the period with their speed and willingness to get in on the forecheck aggressively. He's likely to end up more of a middle-six player who can provide scoring depth and take on some tough matchups, but I don't think he's all that far away from being an NHL-caliber forward.
Team fit: Lundestrom was one of my favorite centers this season in what I thought was a very light crop. His versatility is going to give the Ducks a lot of options down the line. I don't view him as a future No. 1 center, but he could be an important middle-six player who helps at both ends of the ice. I could see him staying in Sweden another season or two before making the jump to North America. Anaheim has a really nice group of forwards in its prospect system right now.
24. Minnesota Wild: Filip Johansson, D, Leksand Jr. (Sweden-Jr.)
Draft board ranking: Not ranked
Age: 18 | Shoots: R | Ht: 6-1 | Wt: 174 | Nat: SWE
29 GP | 4 G | 5 A
Scouting report: An advanced defender for such a young player, Johansson is a very good skater with good lateral movement. His offensive capabilities are limited at this point, but he has shown a few flashes here and there, suggesting that he has more to give in that regard. He's just a smart player who I think has a chance to be a No. 5 or 6 blueliner.
Team fit: There have been very split viewpoints on Johannson, but a widely-held opinion is that he has limited offensive upside. His professional numbers don't bother me, but he didn't even do much offensively in junior hockey. Not having a second-round pick might have forced Minnesota's hand a bit. Johannson can absolutely defend; I just don't know if he has enough tools to make much of an impact in the near term. That said, Paul Fenton has a lot more hits than misses when it comes to drafting defensemen.
25. St. Louis Blues: Dominik Bokk, RW, Vaxjo Jr. (Sweden-Jr.)
Draft board ranking: 28
Age: 18 | Shoots: R | Ht: 6-1 | Wt: 180 | Nat: GER
35 GP | 14 G | 27 A
Scouting report: I've been up and down on Bokk this season, as I believe he definitely has high-end puck skills. There's a lot of dynamism to his game, which you don't often find in German players. He had a strong season in Sweden's U20 ranks and even got some reps with Swedish champion Vaxjo in the SHL this season. He got pretty significant playing time when he was up, though he only ended up with a goal and an assist. That's all great experience for the 17-year-old regardless of how he produced. His passing ability is up there with some of the best players in this draft. He can make defenders miss, and his poise with the puck is pretty solid. He has a good shot, too, but I think he's more of a pass-first guy, and it suits him. He still has a ways to go in terms of making plays under pressure and being behind some of his peers physically.
Team fit: The Blues have been loading up on skill at forward, and Bokk has plenty of that. He should have a chance to play more with Vaxjo's pro side next season, which will give him a great challenge. Moving to Sweden really paid off for him as he adjusted to a faster style of hockey. The Blues won't need him for a good long while with top prospects Jordan Kyrou and Robert Thomas next in line for a recall. It's a good bet on offensive upside by the Blues here.
26. Ottawa Senators: Jacob Bernard-Docker, D, Okotoks (AJHL)
Draft board ranking: 44
Age: 17 | Shoots: R | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 181 | Nat: CAN
49 GP | 20 G | 21 A
Scouting report: Bernard-Docker is an excellent trigger man with a heavy shot from the point. His 20-goal mark is the highest total by a U18 defenseman in the AJHL over the last 20 seasons. While he posted strong numbers offensively, he's not an exceptional puck mover, but he has enough skill to suggest a higher upside. Bernard-Docker was initially slated to attend the University of North Dakota in 2019-20, but he performed so well this season that he's going to be headed to campus this fall. I think he's going to be a stellar college defenseman on his way to becoming a very good pro prospect.
Team fit: This was a bit of a surprising pick. He is a ways away, but the offensive upside is absolutely there. He can really hammer the puck, and you can never have enough right-shot defensemen. I could see Bernard-Docker spending the next three seasons at North Dakota, which is where recent Sens signee Christian Wolanin developed into a very nice prospect for them.
27. Chicago Blackhawks: Nicolas Beaudin, D, Drummondville (QMJHL)
Draft board ranking: 67
Age: 18 | Shoots: L | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 175 | Nat: CAN
68 GP | 12 G | 57 A
Scouting report: Beaudin led Drummondville in scoring with 69 points this season. He continued his high production in the playoffs, showcasing excellent mobility and quickness. Beaudin's defensive game needs work, as he's at a bit of a disadvantage due to his size. That said, he does a lot of things well when he has the puck on his stick, making quick decisions and making himself a threat the other team has to be aware of. Anyone who moves the puck as well as Beaudin is going to give himself a good chance of reaching the next level.
Team fit: I heard from a few scouts that I was dead wrong slotting Beaudin where I did in my rankings, citing his offensive upside was far better than I had been giving him credit for. The Blackhawks have been loading up on right-shot defensemen, so now they get a lefty who plays a confident puck-moving style. Chicago is dedicated to adding more skill to its blue line.
28. New York Rangers: Nils Lundkvist, D, Lulea (Sweden)
Draft board ranking: 29
Age: 17 | Shoots: R | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 180 | Nat: SWE
28 GP | 2 G | 3 A
Scouting report: He split his season between Lulea's pro and U20 teams, and looked good for both. He also was a standout player for Sweden at the U18 level internationally. What jumps out to me about Lundkvist is that he's not very big, but he's a very good defender. He's smart in the way he takes players off the puck and gets in the way really well, closing gaps quickly and identifying opportunities when the opposing player is vulnerable. On top of that, he has really good passing skills and can help his team get the puck up and out after he gets it. The hockey sense is a big factor in Lundkvist shooting up my board, but I also think he's just starting to get a handle on how to bring more of his offensive capabilities to the forefront to make him more of a two-way threat.
Team fit: Lundkvist was another player who really didn't have a lot of buzz coming into the season, but once scouts saw what he was doing at the professional level with Lulea, he shot up. His defensive game is really mature, which is why his timeline might be shorter than most late first-round picks. The Rangers can let him sit in Lulea for next season, unless there's a way to get him to the AHL. After taking more of a shot with the Miller pick, Lundkvist is a nice, safe option with clear pro instincts.
29. Toronto Maple Leafs: Rasmus Sandin, D, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)
Draft board ranking: 20
Age: 18 | Shoots: L | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 184 | Nat: SWE
51 GP | 12 G | 33 A
Scouting report: Despite being average sized, he is an awfully sturdy and strong player. He's hard to beat in battles and isn't afraid to be physical defensively. Sandin keeps things relatively simple offensively, not showing a ton of dynamic elements. Still, he's effective as a passer and carries a confident presence on the offensive blue line. He played a pretty prominent role on one of junior hockey's best teams this season and managed to make the Soo Greyhounds better. I think Sandin is mobile and smart enough to overcome any size concerns.
Team fit: The Leafs were able to get a few assets by trading down and still get the player that they liked. It was obviously fitting that Kyle Dubas' first selection came from the junior team where he used to be the GM. There is talk that Sandin could go back to Sweden to play professionally, but the AHL could be an option for him since he was in the Soo on loan. That makes him exempt from the rule that requires CHL players to stay in that league through their age-19 season unless they make an NHL roster. Give him a few seasons there, and he'll be even better prepared to hop into the Leafs' lineup.
30. Detroit Red Wings: Joseph Veleno, C, Drummondville (QMJHL)
Draft board ranking: 11
Age: 18 | Shoots: L | Ht: 6-1 | Wt: 193 | Nat: CAN
64 GP | 22 G | 57 A
Scouting report: The best way to describe Veleno is probably "well-rounded." He's not truly elite at any one thing, but he's effective in all zones, strong on the puck and committed to playing strong defensively. Veleno's offensive skills are also strong, highlighted primarily by quick hands and some shiftiness. He also protects the puck with a strong frame and powerful skating. For as skilled as Veleno is, he has a strong defensive work ethic. I think one of the biggest questions surrounding Veleno is his year-to-year progression after being granted exceptional status to enter the QMJHL a year early. He hasn't taken remarkably big steps forward as a player, which makes me wonder about his overall upside, but the level he's playing at now as a center and the versatility he brings to the table are why I ranked him a bit higher.
Team fit: It was a long wait for Veleno, who fell much further than anyone expected, but that was good news for the Red Wings. I think there are legitimate concerns about his overall upside given his lack of substantial progression in the QMJHL. That said, he has some really good skill and I think his two-way game is really strong. I still see him as a future middle-six center who can make an impact at both ends of the ice. It just might require a season or two in the AHL after his QMJHL career wraps up.
31. Washington Capitals: Alexander Alexeyev, D, Red Deer (WHL)
Draft board ranking: 39
Age: 18 | Shoots: L | Ht: 6-3 | Wt: 200 | Nat: RUS
45 GP | 7 G | 30 A
Scouting report: A big, calculating defenseman, Alexeyev is good at keeping the game in front of him. He moves the puck very well and has a pretty good shot from the point when he leans into it. His big frame makes him tough to beat, but I do have some concern about his skating. His footwork is pretty good in that he's able to establish position on the rush, but as the speed of the game picks up, I'm wondering if he'll be able to keep up with it. As the season progressed in Red Deer, I think he progressed with it, which is why I'm more encouraged by where he's headed as a prospect. He might not be a dynamic player, but he does a lot of little things well, which is why I think he's got a better chance of continuing on this encouraging development arc.
Team fit: A big defenseman from the WHL and another Russian, Alexeyev really came on strong in his first season in North America. He's still pretty raw and needs to continue to refine his skating, but his size and strength will never be an issue. After some expected prospect graduations to next year's Caps roster, there isn't a ton of depth in the prospect pool. Winning a Stanley Cup certainly improves a team's ability to be patient. It will be a few seasons before Alexeyev is ready to step in, but he instantly becomes this team's No. 1 D prospect.