Here is my final ranking of the top 100 players for the 2019 NHL draft, which begins with Round 1 on June 21 in Vancouver, British Columbia.
Each ranked prospect includes a scouting report, with a more comprehensive look at the top 10 names on the board.
Note: Heights and weights are via Central Scouting and/or NHL combine testing, stats are from Elite Prospects and ages are representative of how old each player will be on draft day.
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Round 1 prospects | Round 2 prospects
Midround prospects | Late-round prospects
Deeper sleepers | Top goalies | Best by skill
1. Jack Hughes, C, USA U18 (NTDP)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-10 | Wt: 170 | Shot: L
50 GP | 34 G | 78 A
As much as Kaapo Kakko narrowed the gap, Hughes finishes as my wire-to-wire No. 1 prospect for the draft class. Hughes has such great burst and an effortless glide in his skating, and he uses his edges deceptively and to create separation. He sees the ice and processes play development at an elite level. He is a shot-pass threat, though he's more likely to choose the pass option, as his shot still needs improvement. Hughes is an expert in making plays in small areas, which is why his size is less of a bother. Although he definitely needs to continue tacking on muscle and weight to his below-average frame, Hughes is unafraid to go to the hard areas of the ice and protects himself well, thanks to his skating and anticipation skills. He takes care of his own end and uses those anticipation skills to cut down passing lanes, but his defensive and takeaway capabilities need improvement, which might come with time and strength.
Perhaps the single biggest reason Hughes is atop my list is that I have yet to watch a game in which he didn't drive play for his line, shift in and shift out, constantly keeping defenders on their heels and making the guys on his line better. He broke the National Team Development Program's career scoring record and averaged more than two points per game this season. Hughes should be an NHL all-star and a play-driving No. 1 center.
2. Kaapo Kakko, RW, TPS (Finland)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-2 | Wt: 194 | Shot: L
45 GP | 22 G | 16 A
Your eyes did not deceive you at the World Championship. Kakko already plays at a high level with and against pro-level players. After he recorded the third-best scoring season by a U18 player in Liiga history, it was not a shock that he posted six goals and an assist for gold-medalist Finland. Only Patrik Laine had more points at a World Championship as a U18 player. There's so much to love about Kakko's game. He has a great frame and uses it well, as he's hard to take off the puck and uses that ability to create extra time for himself to find plays. He has the vision to spot those plays and make them quickly, and I think his hand skills have gotten to a fringe elite level. His shot is high-end and heavy; he can beat goalies from distance, but then he also has the skill to make plays in tight at the net front.
Although not Hughes-like in his skating, he is powerful and has enough speed to break away from the opposition. His edgework is strong, and his balance makes him so difficult to play against. He has power, but he does need more explosiveness in his skating. Kakko battles as well as any player, both in puck pursuit and with it on his stick. There's a definite fire in him to compete, and he will be a cornerstone NHL winger.
3. Alex Turcotte, C, USA U18 (NTDP)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 186 | Shot: L
37 GP | 27 G | 35 A
It has been a winding season for Turcotte, who was on the shelf with a significant injury the first half of the season and had to deal with a bout of mono toward the end, but when he was healthy, he was exceptional. He is a smart, two-way forward with an unrelenting motor and an ability to make plays in the offensive end of the ice. Turcotte is dogged in puck pursuit and remarkably strong, despite being average-sized. He is a fierce competitor but does not step over the line very often. He is not always flashy and doesn't always make the eye-popping play, but he makes the right plays. Turcotte goes hard to the net and into the corners, and he has the touch and plus-level vision to make plays under duress and find better options in tougher situations with the puck on his stick. On top of that, Turcotte has good speed and can make plays in transition. He has deceptive feet, showcasing a good second gear that allows him to beat defenders wide or challenge them inside.
Although his season was abbreviated by injury, some of his rate stats stand out. He appeared in just 16 games against USHL competition but had 34 points, an average of 2.13 points per game -- higher than Hughes. His 1.68 points per game in all competitions for the U18 Team was second only to Hughes, albeit a distant second.
4. Kirby Dach, C, Saskatoon (WHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-4 | Wt: 198 | Shot: R
62 GP | 25 G | 48 A
Dach has size, smarts and skill. It's not often that you get a play-driving center at 6-foot-4 who makes the game look as easy as Dach does. Although he lacks explosiveness, he skates smoothly and has a great sense of how to get to where he needs to be efficiently. Size and body positioning are two ways he can mitigate some of the concerns about footwork and lack of separation speed. When he does have the puck, Dach is a shot-pass threat who can score goals in a variety of ways. He's especially successful at driving the net.
While he has that size and solid middle drive, Dach can also pick teams apart from the outside, thanks to high-end vision and elite distribution skills. He has dealt with bouts of inconsistency that caused some concern and a general dip in projections, and he didn't necessarily dominate the WHL on a regular basis. But when he was on, he was unstoppable. It's something to take into account, but I still place a high value on Dach's best being so much better than that of a large swath of the top players in this class.
5. Trevor Zegras, C, USA U18 (NTDP)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 173 | Shot: L
60 GP | 26 G | 61 A
An elite playmaker with exceptional puck skills, Zegras is one of the most entertaining players in this draft class. He played both center and wing this season, though most teams I've talked to project him as a center with top-six ceiling. With elite vision and passing skills, Zegras is excellent in dictating play from the half wall or making plays on the rush. He can play at any speed and can back defenders down coming through the neutral zone. His ability to gain the zone is rivaled only by Hughes' in the draft class, as Zegras has creativity and a good sense of how to find the soft areas to give him the best chance to make plays. He has a quick release and can score goals but is viewed more as a pass-first player.
The biggest area of improvement for Zegras is his physical strength. NHL teams have consistently noted Zegras' frame when offering criticisms. He appears to have the frame to support more weight and muscle to allow him to maximize his potential, but considering the way someone such as Elias Pettersson operates, you wonder if it's an absolute necessity. He also seems to force plays sometimes, but I think that became less of a problem as this past season progressed.
6. Cole Caufield, RW, USA U18 (NTDP)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-7 | Wt: 163 | Shot: R
64 GP | 72 G | 28 A
It isn't just that Caufield scored 72 goals this season, the most by any draft-eligible player in junior hockey by 21 goals. It's also how he scores them. Yes, Caufield is slight, but he has elite offensive sense. I haven't seen a prospect who has as keen a sense of time and space, and opponents have a hard time tracking Caufield on the ice. He's always moving, finding openings before anyone knows they're there. Combine that skill with an elite shot that isn't as heavy as it is ridiculously quick and accurate.
He has often been compared to Chicago Blackhawks winger Alex DeBrincat, but I -- and a few scouts I've talked to -- think Caufield is better than DeBrincat was at the same age. He's a little quicker and perhaps a little more skilled. He is especially tenacious, playing the game without fear and getting the most out of his 5-foot-7 frame. Is he a risk to be picked high in the draft? Not any more than anyone else. Everyone needs goals. He scores them and will continue to in the NHL.
7. Bowen Byram, D, Vancouver (WHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-1 | Wt: 195 | Shot: L
67 GP | 26 G | 45 A
Byram has been a significant riser and is an exceptional talent. There are teams that view Byram as a future No. 1 defenseman. There is no denying that he has some incredible offensive skill, but I would like to see Byram become a bit more consistent as a defender. I think the skating is excellent, and he has a good sense of how to play efficiently in a boatload of minutes. He willed Vancouver to the WHL final this season, and that's going to resonate.
One scout I spoke to expressed concern that the way Byram scored goals -- popping deep into zones and aggressively jumping plays -- won't translate to the NHL. I think elements of it can, but he will have to become a bit more selective. He's the best defenseman in this draft by a fairly large margin, but the highly touted forwards available in this draft offer a bit more long-term value. The threshold of a future No. 1 defenseman is pretty high, and I'm not sure Byram is there yet for me. But he's close and a definite top-10 talent in this class.
8. Matthew Boldy, LW, USA U18 (NTDP)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-2 | Wt: 196 | Shot: L
64 GP | 33 G | 48 A
Boldy grew nearly 4 inches the past two years but never lost the puck skills and creativity that he had when he didn't have the size. He is a wing who plays more like a center, a true 200-foot player who is as valuable defensively as he is offensively. That toolkit is rare, and he's only going to get better as he continues to get stronger. Boldy could afford to improve his skating some -- he does not have breakaway speed -- but he still gets around the sheet effectively.
In the offensive end, Boldy has higher-end puck skills and creativity. He can make the plays in small areas and has an excellent, heavy, accurate shot. Boldy also possesses excellent vision and an ability to make accurate passes off the backhand and forehand. His versatility and consistent effort mean he can be plugged in just about anywhere.
9. Vasily Podkolzin, RW, Neva St. Petersburg (Russia 2)
Age: 17 | Ht: 6-1 | Wt: 196 | Shot: L
14 GP | 2 G | 3 A
He has become a hot draft topic because of his relatively quiet finish to the season and the fact that he remains under KHL contract for the next two years. The fact that his rights are owned by SKA St. Petersburg causes some nervousness, as the club tends to hold on to guys. It's important to note, however, that Podkolzin is represented by Newport Sports in North America, and it's hard to imagine it'd take on a client who didn't plan to come over at some point.
Podkolzin remains an exceptional talent, with high-end skill and power in his game. He has a mean streak, gets on pucks quickly and can finish. Podkolzin wasn't dominating in the same way at the end of the season, and his club play was underwhelming, but I've maintained all year that he was never put in a great position to succeed this season because he played at three different levels in Russia. But when Podkolzin is at his best, few in this class are better. He does a little bit of everything and does almost all of it very well.
10. Dylan Cozens, C, Lethbridge (WHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-3 | Wt: 183 | Shot: R
68 GP | 34 G | 50 A
A strong skater who has an explosive burst in space, Cozens has that combination of size and speed that tantalizes scouts. There have been some questions about his overall hockey sense and skill level, but it's hard to argue with how his physical tools translate, especially with the expectation that he will only get stronger and perhaps even more explosive.
Given that he played both center and wing this season, there is some caution in projecting his NHL ceiling. The lack of high-end puck skills suggests that he might not be a No. 1 pivot down the road. That said, he has some two-way capabilities, with the balance tilting more offensively.
11. Peyton Krebs, C, Kootenay (WHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 183 | Shot: L
64 GP | 19 G | 49 A
Krebs played on a bad Kootenay team this season but still managed to produce. A play-driving center who has been highly regarded for his character and leadership, Krebs does a lot of little detail things well and can adequately take care of his own zone. Krebs can really survey the ice with excellent vision and above-average distribution skills in finding his teammates. The hockey sense is a separating skill. Krebs unfortunately did just sustain a serious Achilles injury during training this summer, but he is expected to be available for the beginning of the season.
12. Alex Newhook, C, Victoria (BCHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 192 | Shot: L
53 GP | 38 G | 64 A
Newhook has high-end skills with skating that is probably just shy of elite. He can dance on the ice at times, using quick hand skills to beat defenders one-on-one while always knowing his next play. He gets shots off quickly and finds teammates well under pressure. Having averaged 1.92 points per game, he had the seventh-best season ever by a U18 player in the offense-happy BCHL. Newhook requires patience because he needs to get stronger and needs to be harder to play against in more physical, tightly checked games, but that skill is tantalizing.
13. Cam York, D, USA U18 (NTDP)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 172 | Shot: L
63 GP | 14 G | 51 A
York is often described as the modern-day defenseman. He very quietly set the national team development program's single-season record for points by a defenseman with 65. He was playing his best hockey at the end of the season, making a bunch of plays with his superior passing abilities and vision. He jumps into plays with relative ease and has good instincts for when he has to get back. I thought his defensive game improved greatly over the past two seasons without sacrificing offense. Odds are, when York is on the ice, his team is going to have the puck an awful lot. His puck retrievals and sense for getting out of his own zone are among the best in this draft because he follows that first touch with decisive play. He still has to round out his game more and continue to build strength as an average-sized defenseman, but there's a lot to like in what he's done and how he progressed this season.
14. Philip Broberg, D, AIK (Sweden 2)
Age: 17 | Ht: 6-3 | Wt: 200 | Shot: L
41 GP | 2 G | 7 A
One of the best pure skaters in this draft, Broberg has all of the tools to eventually become a top-four defenseman in the NHL. There have been some moderate concerns about his hockey sense and playmaking abilities, but I think those will catch up to his feet eventually. He makes pretty good reads in the offensive zone, distributes well from the defensive zone and can use his feet in transition as well as, or better than, any defenseman in this draft. Broberg has a very good, quick and accurate shot from the point, looking for open lanes and possessing the mobility to find the best option. The biggest issue I see at this point is an overreliance on his skating, to a point where it might not work at the next level like it does now. But his defending has improved over the course of the season, and his size and athleticism go a long way for him.
15. Moritz Seider, D, Mannheim (Germany)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-3 | Wt: 208 | Shot: R
29 GP | 2 G | 4 A
One of the most intriguing players in this entire draft, Seider won a championship in Germany's top pro league. And while skating for Germany at the under-20 and World Championship levels, he showcased incredible poise, played big minutes and displayed the size and strength to compete with pros. He's a strong skater for such a big guy and sees the ice particularly well. Seider can make plays at the offensive blue line and does a good job of absorbing and evading pressure in his own zone. He's a right-shot, too, which is becoming a lot harder to find these days. There's some risk because Seider didn't have a ton of reps on special teams and in key situations this season, but he should be able to get those next season. The potential reward is especially high with him.
16. Arthur Kaliyev, RW, Hamilton (OHL)
Age: 17 | Ht: 6-2 | Wt: 194 | Shot: L
67 GP | 51 G | 51 A
There have been only 13 players in OHL history who scored 51 or more goals in or prior to their under-18 season. With 51 goals and 102 points for a Hamilton squad that essentially was in rebuilding mode after winning the OHL championship in 2018, Kaliyev is one of the best scorers in the draft. He shoots off the pass better than anyone, his shot is both heavy and accurate and he does a great job of getting to the goal-scoring areas. On top of that, he has the size (6-foot-2) and strength to get those tough goals at the net-front. His passing is overshadowed by the shot, but he also had 51 assists this season and can make a lot of plays. There are a few concerns with Kaliyev, though. He lacks breakaway speed, though he's probably a little more agile than given credit for. And there are complaints about his consistency of effort. Some of that is going to come with maturity, but it is a red flag. Even still, he can find the back of the net better than almost anyone else in this draft, and there's always going to be a premium on that.
17. Victor Soderstrom, D, Brynas (Sweden)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 182 | Shot: R
44 GP | 4 G | 3 A
A remarkably poised and mature defenseman, Soderstrom spent much of this season playing in the Swedish professional ranks. Before suffering a concussion at the under-18 World Championship, he showcased his puck-moving talent and high-end hockey sense. However, I don't know that there's anything in particular that stands out about Soderstrom aside from the way he thinks the game. The skill is fine, the passing is good-to-great, his shot is OK and he gets pucks out of the zone well. He might be a jack of all trades but a master of none. Hockey sense can carry a player a long way, however.
18. Raphael Lavoie, C, Halifax (QMJHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-4 | Wt: 199 | Shot: R
62 GP | 32 G | 41 A
Fluctuating draft stock has been the norm for Lavoie this season, but I think he did himself a lot of favors with his postseason performance. With 20 goals in 23 games for Halifax on the way to the QMJHL finals, Lavoie showed a good mix of skill and power. He's a big kid who moves well and can outmuscle opponents. There's room for him to fill out and become a better power forward down the line. Lavoie plays with some edge, and competes, but I think there were times this season when he didn't dominate the way many scouts believed he could. He still had a lot of success, but there is room for improvement. What I've seen over these past two years is pretty impressive from Lavoie. He keeps getting better.
19. Nicholas Robertson, LW, Peterborough (OHL)
Age: 17 | Ht: 5-9 | Wt: 162 | Shot: L
54 GP | 27 G | 28 A
Robertson has been a personal draft favorite all year. He has some of the best one-on-one puck skills in this class and an elite release on his shot. Even Robertson admits he needs to shoot more, noting that he feels he's gained more confidence in his shot. If there are still concerns about his size, I think he's eased those with his tenacious, fearless play and quickness. The skill level is pretty uncommon among players in this draft and it allows Robertson the ability to gain the zone and make plays. His production was not that of a dominant player, and the team that takes him will need to be a little more patient to make sure he's fully ready for the NHL when the time comes, but I doubt the size is going to slow him down.
20. Ryan Suzuki, C, Barrie (OHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-1 | Wt: 180 | Shot: L
65 GP | 25 G | 50 A
One of the better playmakers in the draft, Suzuki has seen his stock dip a little over the course of the season, even though he didn't necessarily do anything wrong. Some prospects just passed him. One of the primary complaints among scouts is a relative lack of intensity and compete level, and there are some issues with consistency that arose when he wasn't getting to the middle of the ice enough. He's a cerebral player who could afford to make quicker decisions, but there's very little questioning his puck skills and his ability to find teammates. He has elite vision and anticipates exceptionally well. As Suzuki gets stronger and does a better job of getting to the middle, his value is only going to climb.
21. Philip Tomasino, C, Niagara (OHL)
Age: 17 | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 183 | Shot: R
67 GP | 34 G | 38 A
Tomasino is an exciting player because of his elite-level skating ability. He looks like a gazelle on ice with his fluidness and quickness. With a quick release and solid vision, he's a true shot-pass threat in the offensive zone, too. Tomasino can play in a variety of situations and handles the flow of games very well. Whatever style a team needs him to play, he can probably do it. The important element, however, is the speed at which he plays the game. He's fast both up and down the ice, and quick in small areas. He has a good work ethic, a willingness to go to the hard areas of the ice and a competitiveness on the puck when he gets there.
22. Thomas Harley, D, Mississauga (OHL)
Age: 17 | Ht: 6-3 | Wt: 193 | Shot: L
68 GP | 11 G | 47 A
A higher-end offensive defenseman with size and mobility, Harley has plenty of upside in his game. He uses his skating to let things open up offensively and has the poise to be patient enough to find the right play. Sometimes he can get caught a little deep, but usually picks his spots pretty well. He comes with just average defensive-zone play, but he has a decent stick and can close on forwards decently well. Some scouts have wondered about his defensive sense. I think he has the know-how, but just hasn't figured out the balance between offense and defense yet.
23. Brett Leason, RW, Prince Albert (WHL)
Age: 20 | Ht: 6-4 | Wt: 210 | Shot: R
55 GP | 36 G | 53 A
The third-year draft eligible certainly made the most of this season on one of junior hockey's top teams. Leason is a big body who now has higher-end skating in the mix. His ability to drive the net up the middle or beat defenders wide is notable. Leason was a top performer all season in the WHL and made Canada's World Junior team, where I thought he more than fit in with elite prospects from across the country. Leason has turned himself into a potential power forward who could be plugged into NHL lineups in a lot of different ways.
24. Nils Hoglander, LW, Rogle (Sweden)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-10 | Wt: 185 | Shot: L
50 GP | 7 G | 7 A
Hoglander has good quickness and competes for pucks, but lacks the size necessary to win a lot of those battles. He is quite good at evading pressure and extending plays with quick feet and even better hands. It's always a little harder to gauge players like him given the strength of the competition they face in the professional ranks, but Hoglander made an awful lot of plays. The skills I've seen over the past two years should translate to him being a quality prospect.
25. Patrik Puistola, RW, Tappara Jr. (Finland Jr.)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-1 | Wt: 175 | Shot: L
25 GP | 11 G | 11 A
A late riser, Puistola put together one of the best ever seasons by an under-18 player in Finland's Metsis league. In U18 tournaments where Finland struggled, Puistola was a regular standout, driving the offense with skill and creativity. He plays the game with a good dose of quickness, too, showcasing some shifty puckhandling ability and a good shot. Puistola is a good skater who maximizes that speed with good anticipation skills, reading plays particularly well.
26. Connor McMichael, C, London (OHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 182 | Shot: L
67 GP | 36 G | 36 A
One of the fastest players in the draft, McMichael carved out a substantial role for himself on a talented team and was one of the top draft-eligible producers in the OHL this season. His shot really improved this season with a good, quick release. He competes, too, playing with tenacity, and his ability to create on the rush is among his more important attributes. As he gets stronger, he's going to be difficult to handle down low.
27. Matthew Robertson, D, Edmonton (WHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-3 | Wt: 200 | Shot: L
52 GP | 7 G | 26 A
Robertson is big, steady and an especially smooth skater for a player his size. His footwork is superb and he defends at a pretty high level. His offensive game is average at best, but he at least has the framework of some better offensive tools, including the ability to get pucks up ice and out of his zone quickly. His shot is pretty good when he actually does let it go, and I like the way he maneuvers in the offensive zone to keep plays alive. It's probably never going to be a particularly notable part of his game, though. But he can play at the pace necessary to stay with NHL forwards and make things more difficult for them because of his skating ability and size.
28. Alex Vlasic, D, USA U18 (NTDP)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-6 | Wt: 198 | Shot: L
61 GP | 4 G | 23 A
Not only is Vlasic one of the best pure defenders in the draft, he is also, at 6-foot-6, one of the biggest -- and he moves remarkably well for a young player at that size. His footwork is excellent and his reach allows him to close gaps quickly. Vlasic is really difficult to get around because of his mobility and stick work. While he doesn't necessarily play with a mean streak, he can be physical and wins a lot of encounters due to his physical strength. He still has room to fill out, too. The offensive elements of his game are not yet high-end, but I've seen ability to make passes, handle the puck and get off shots. His hockey sense, defensive ability and strong distribution skills all translate to his being able to play a substantial role at the next level.
29. Tobias Bjornfot, D, Djurgarden Jr. (Sweden Jr.)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-1 | Wt: 193 | Shot: L
39 GP | 11 G | 11 A
Bjornfot is one of the smarter players in this draft. His ability to read plays in all zones is exceptional, and he always puts himself in a good spot. Despite a relative lack of high-end skill, he's a good passer and has shown flashes of more offensive capabilities. Bjornfot keeps it simple when he has to, allowing his vision and mobility to do the work for him. With elite defensive sense, he is so hard to play against in his own zone and limits mistakes when he has the puck. He can get it up ice quickly, too. It's clear when you talk to him that he is mature and carries himself like a professional. He's the kind of guy you want to have on your team.
30. Ville Heinola, D, Lukko (Finland)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 178 | Shot: L
34 GP | 2 G | 12 A
Having spent the entire season playing quality minutes in Finland's top pro league, Heinola is especially intriguing. I think his skating is only average for a player his size, which keeps him from ranking a bit higher. There are more sub-6-foot defensemen in the NHL, but you still need to be able to skate at a high level. However, he makes up for it in his hockey sense. Coaches won't have to worry about him too much because he's so poised and moves the puck with incredible efficiency, even though his offensive skills are not necessarily dynamic. He defends decently well, closing on opposing forwards quickly. The fact that Heinola's minutes only went up in the Liiga playoffs shows how highly valued he is at such a young age.
31. Spencer Knight, G, USA U18 (NTDP)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-4 | Wt: 193 | Catch: L
33 GP | 0.913 Sv% | 2.36 GAA
Knight is the top goaltender in the draft by a large margin -- although not a lock for the first round as the season wore on, especially after his numbers trended down a bit over the course of the season. The things that makes Knight exceptional among his goaltending peers is elite hockey sense, tremendous athleticism balanced with controlled play, great footwork and size and elite puck-moving abilities. I don't put huge value on a goalie's puckhandling skills, but Knight's are so good it's hard not to mention. Knight has really grown a lot in his confidence and poise in the net. There's such little flash in Knight's game, and that's a good thing. He's just always in the right spot because he tracks and anticipates as well as any goalie prospect I've seen in the past few years.
32. Bobby Brink, RW, Sioux City (USHL)
Age: 17 | Ht: 5-8 | Wt: 165 | Shot: R
43 GP | 35 G | 33 A
Elite vision and offensive sense make Brink an especially intriguing player. He also comes with a high-end release on his shot and can get it off from just about anywhere, including off the pass. The big strikes against Brink are his size and his footspeed. He does a nice job of getting himself in good positions to create and can manage the offensive zone pretty well, but I'd have concern about his ability to keep pace if his skating does not improve. Even with that in mind, Brink's offensive toolkit is special. He sees the ice as well as anybody in this class and makes confident plays with the puck, letting the game come to him and not trying to do too much. Only Thomas Vanek had a better scoring rate among full-time USHLers as an under-18 player over the past 20 years.
33. Jamieson Rees, C, Sarnia (OHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-10 | Wt: 182 | Shot: L
37 GP | 10 G | 22 A
Despite missing a good chunk of the season due to a lacerated kidney, Rees steadily moved up the boards in the second half. Part of that is due to his skill, but a lot of it has to do with his speed and aggressive play. Rees likes to throw his body around despite not being particularly big. When you can mix that with good offensive instincts, it's going to make you stand out. Rees can really challenge defenders on the forecheck and gets on every puck quickly.
34. Nolan Foote, LW, Kelowna (WHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-4 | Wt: 195 | Shot: L
66 GP | 36 G | 27 A
Foote had a pretty strong season, scoring 36 goals, even though he played much of it with a fractured wrist. He is a good, not great, skater who uses his body well and can win along the boards. His puck skills are average, but he has exceptional hockey sense and can make good passes in all zones, and whether or not there's pressure. Foote also has enough edge in his game to win a lot of battles down low.
35. Egor Afanasyev, LW, Muskegon (USHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-3 | Wt: 204 | Shot: L
58 GP | 27 G | 35 A
A true power winger, Afanasyev knows how to use his frame to create offense and extend plays. He had a remarkable season in the USHL, especially for a 17-year-old, with 62 points in 58 games. Afanasyev has good touch, especially around the net, and can make highly skilled plays. He has a good shot that gets off his stick quickly and has some heaviness to it. I don't always love his effort defensively, and his skating can run hot and cold. He has a powerful stride, but lacks real quickness. Afanasyev is rather hard to take off the puck, though.
36. Jakob Pelletier, LW, Moncton (QMJHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-9 | Wt: 165 | Shot: L
65 GP | 39 G | 50 A
Pelletier has quick, shifty skills that have served him well in one-on-one situations and getting pucks into the zone. His skating is fine, but perhaps not overly dynamic for a player of his size (5-foot-9). But he makes up for that with his energetic, fearless style of play. His game needs work away from the puck, as there are some concerns he's a tad too one-dimensional.
37. Simon Holmstrom, RW, HV71 Jr. (Sweden Jr.)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-1 | Wt: 193 | Shot: L
21 GP | 7 G | 13 A
Good size and hockey sense have helped Holmstrom lift his draft stock throughout the season, as has a particularly strong performance at the under-18 World Championship. He has a very good shot that he can get off from anywhere. The puck really zips off his stick. His puck skills are OK, and pretty average in terms of one-on-one stick skills, but he gets himself into good positions and helps create space for his linemates. Holmstrom has good physical strength which helps him protect the puck well, and he has a little power element to his game. But does he have enough skill to create on his own?
38. Lassi Thomson, D, Kelowna (WHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 186 | Shot: R
63 GP | 17 G | 24 A
Thomson is a good two-way defenseman who uses smarts over skill. His skating is good enough to get him up the ice and he's sturdy in his own zone, but there's not a lot in terms of overall puck skills or dynamicism. He is very decisive, making confident plays with the puck and allowing himself to get into space. There's not a lot of forcing it with him, and his offensive reads are pretty strong.
39. Robert Mastrosimone, LW, Chicago (USHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-10 | Wt: 159 | Shot: L
54 GP | 31 G | 29 A
Mastrosimone got on my radar with his superb play as a 16-year-old in the USHL during the 2017-18 season. That is a tough league to do anything at that age, and he was an offensive catalyst. He was only better this season, playing a tenacious two-way game in all situations. He was also a top performer for the U.S. at the Hlinka-Gretzky Cup and World Junior A Challenge, showing he can match up well with and against top players in his age group. Mastrosimone has high-end vision, strong playmaking skills and a decent shot. There's not a lot of elite skills in his toolbox, but there are a bunch of really good ones.
40. Samuel Poulin, RW, Sherbrooke (QMJHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-1 | Wt: 212 | Shot: L
67 GP | 29 G | 47 A
Poulin has been one of the toughest players for me to rank. There are times when you see a player showing what he can do with his size and skill. There are other times when he disappears. The effort needs to be better. Aside from that, the skill he has in that sturdy frame of his is tantalizing. If he finds a level of consistency to force his will more during games, he has a chance to outperform his draft ranking in a major way.
41. John Beecher, C, USA U18 (NTDP)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-3 | Wt: 212 | Shot: L
63 GP | 15 G | 28 A
An exceptional athlete, Beecher has high-end speed. He's one of the best-graded skaters in this draft, even at his size (6-foot-3). Beecher would be a no-doubt first-rounder if he had a little bit more in the puck-skills department, and his offensive sense is average at best. It's not shocking he didn't put up big numbers at the national team development program, as he was the No. 3 center for much of the season, but Beecher gets behind, around and through defenses very well with his wheels. I just don't know if he's going to be much of a big-time producer at the next level, but I'm also not averse to taking swings on athletes of Beecher's caliber.
42. Ryan Johnson, D, Sioux Falls (USHL)
Age: 17 | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 170 | Shot: L
54 GP | 6 G | 19 A
Johnson is one of the best skating defensemen in this entire class. He's an exceptional defender who performed at his best in big games this season. But he is a pretty raw talent when it comes to ability to make plays in the offensive zone, which is why he's a little further down the board. In faster-paced games, he focuses a lot more on defending, and I don't know that he has the offensive sense to make effective plays up ice. Still, the feet and defensive sense are so strong that he might be the most intriguing second-round-graded player on my board, and I wouldn't pick on a team that grabs him earlier.
43. Nathan Legare, RW, Baie-Comeau (QMJHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 206 | Shot: R
68 GP | 45 G | 42 A
With an absolutely elite shot and tremendous scoring sense, Legare can fill nets. The concern is that if he's not scoring goals, there isn't a ton else about his game that really jumps out. The skating is only OK, even though he knows how to get himself into good scoring spots and his sense of time and space are especially effective. Legare also plays a heavier game, using strength to protect the puck or take a player off of it and not shying away from the physicality. If he were a little quicker, he'd be a lot higher in this class because he really does have some special goal-scoring abilities.
44. Brayden Tracey, LW, Moose Jaw (WHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-1 | Wt: 170 | Shot: L
66 GP | 36 G | 45 A
The WHL's Rookie of the Year and one of the fastest risers in this draft class, Tracey has really good puck skills and vision, with an ability to make plays under pressure. His skating is probably closer to average, but I don't view it as a hindrance. He gets to the hard areas well enough and can make some decent plays on the rush.
45. Vladislav Kolyachonok, D, Flint (OHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-1 | Wt: 189 | Shot: L
54 GP | 4 G | 26 A
The first thing that comes to mind with Kolyachonok is raw talent. There's so much upside in his game because of his exceptional skating and good hockey sense. He played on a terrible team in Flint this season and still managed to stand out. Koloyachonok showed he could be a leader on the blue line at the U18 World Championship and had a little more offensive pop. The skating is exceptional, especially for a guy his size, and he is still growing into his big frame. He might just be scratching the surface of where his game can go, but there remain questions about his overall game.
46. Kaedan Korczak, D, Kelowna (WHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-3 | Wt: 194 | Shot: R
68 GP | 4 G | 29 A
A sturdy defender who can be physical, Korczak is a bit of a polarizing prospect. Is he anything more than a shutdown defender? Those are starting to go extinct, but a player of Korczkak's size, mobility and heavy brand of defense is still going to be given a chance. His puck-moving skills are average, but he does a decent enough job of getting pucks in his own zone and up the ice. There's enough of a foundation for him to build off, but no one is going to confuse him for a puck-mover.
47. Pavel Dorofeyev, LW, Magnitogorsk (Russia)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-1 | Wt: 176 | Shot: L
23 GP | 1 G | 1 A
Dorofeyev can make plays that pop, he's got some creativity and he can really shoot the puck. But I haven't seen enough of a dynamic element in Dorofeyev's skating to give me a great deal of comfort about his ability to produce as he progresses. He's a pretty slight player, so if he's not darting through defenses, I don't know that there's going to be as much space in the NHL for him to make the kinds of plays he's making now. Even so, Dorofeyev absolutely torched the MHL. His hockey sense might make up for the skating, but there's just enough concern for me to grade him more conservatively.
48. Ilya Nikolaev, C, Yaroslavl 2 (Russia Jr.)
Age: 17 | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 190 | Shot: L
41 GP | 10 G | 15 A
Nikolaev has a lot of intriguing offensive traits. He can make plays near the net and gets to the tough areas. There's some grit in his game. He also has good puck skills and higher-end vision. But Nikolaev doesn't really drive play as much as he complements those around him. He's not a passenger, but is content to hang back a bit.
49. Shane Pinto, C, Tri-City (USHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-2 | Wt: 195 | Shot: R
56 GP | 28 G | 31 A
A big forward with a good shot, Pinto had an exceptional season in the USHL. There's nothing terribly flashy about his game and his puck skills are no better than adequate, but he skates well and has some grit in his game. Versatility is probably his greatest asset. The lack of dynamic skill suggests he could play a middle-six role down the road if he hits his ceiling.
50. Kirill Slepets, RW, Yaroslavl 2 (Russia Jr.)
Age: 20 | Ht: 5-10 | Wt: 165 | Shot: L
17 GP | 12 G | 6 A
An average-sized forward with blistering speed, the 5-foot-10 Slepets really broke out this season after going undrafted twice. I don't know that a lot of teams would go early on a reentry candidate, particularly one from Russia, but I've got a lot of time for his game and what he can be with those wheels and doggedness in puck pursuit.
51. Drew Helleson, D, USA U18 (NTDP)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-3 | Wt: 194 | Shot: R
64 GP | 5 G | 18 A
A steady, reliable defenseman who doesn't wow you with any one skill, Helleson's all-around game has him rising up the charts. He has a big frame, defends at an especially high level and makes good decisions with the puck. His passing is solid, and he has the ability to make a play or two in his own end. While he lacks puck skills, his hockey sense allows him to have success at both ends of the ice.
52. Nikita Alexandrov, C, Charlottetown (QMJHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-1 | Wt: 190 | Shot: L
64 GP | 27 G | 34 A
In my scouting notes, I often described Alexandrov as slippery. He is good at getting through defenders and out of tough situations with quick moves, often set up by good anticipation skills. He plays hard and gets to the net well, but it needs to happen more consistently for him to be considered among the top prospects.
53. Semyon Chystyakov, D, Ufa 2 (Russia Jr.)
Age: 17 | Ht: 5-10 | Wt: 167 | Shot: L
32 GP | 1 G | 10 A
He defends solidly with a good stick and aggressive plays. His gap control is sound and mobility is definitely a positive in his game. Chystyakov has a good shot and good sense to get pucks through. He's also very poised, absorbing pressure well and making good plays even amid an intense forecheck. As an undersized defenseman, there are valid questions about his skill being high enough to make the plays necessary against bigger, stronger, faster competition.
54. Yegor Spiridonov, C, Magnitogorsk 2 (Russia Jr.)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-2 | Wt: 190 | Shot: R
43 GP | 15 G | 26 A
A big forward with some power tendencies, Spiridonov could probably stand to play a little more aggressively in the offensive zone. He has the ability to make plays and drive the net, but needs to do it more consistently. His hand skills are above average for a bigger player, and he finished with the second-best points-per-game rate among U18 players in the MHL this season. Spiridonov owns a quick release and gets pucks onto the net with a heavier shot. Consistency is key, though. There were times when he played internationally that he would disappear for long stretches of the game despite being one of the bigger players.
55. Vladislav Firstov, LW, Waterloo (USHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-1 | Wt: 181 | Shot: L
62 GP | 26 G | 32 A
A creative forward with a quick release, Firstov lacks much in the way of physical strength. Against faster and more physical teams, he wasn't very productive, but he didn't fade or shy away, either. I think his work ethic on the ice and his play away from the puck can use a little more consistency. But he has a high level of puck skills a lot of time and can create offense. His ability to slice through defenses and get to the middle of the ice is notable.
56. Albin Grewe, RW, Djurgarden Jr. (Sweden Jr.)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 190 | Shot: L
25 GP | 13 G | 21 A
What Grewe will ultimately be at the next level is a rather large unknown. He was a highly regarded player coming into the season, but his production outside of the junior level has been suspect. I'm not sure he processes the game offensively as quickly as he needs to in order to have success. Grewe has a fantastic shot when he can get it away and is pound for pound one of the stronger players in this draft. He's physical and plays hard. There's a place for a guy with his work ethic, but his ceiling is limited unless we see an uptick in production.
57. Patrick Moynihan, RW, USA U18 (NTDP)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 183 | Shot: R
64 GP | 19 G | 27 A
Moynihan has a particularly sneaky skill set which got overshadowed at the NTDP last season. He was asked to do a lot of different things, from a top-six wing to a depth forward on the penalty kill. He has good two-way skills and versatility, gets his shot off very well and has a sneaky ability to create extra time and space for his teammates. He's going to fit right in next season with a Providence College team that plays a style that translates especially well to the NHL.
58. Henry Thrun, D, USA U18 (NTDP)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-2 | Wt: 188 | Shot: L
64 GP | 8 G | 29 A
Thrun doesn't necessarily thrill you with his skill set. What he does do, however, is make good reads and excels in puck retrievals and getting the puck to a safe area of the ice. He skates fine, but there aren't a ton of dynamic elements there. But that hockey sense is a plus tool for him.
59. Michael Vukojevic, D, Kitchener (OHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-3 | Wt: 212 | Shot: L
68 GP | 3 G | 26 A
Defensively sound yet relatively uninteresting at the offensive end of the ice, Vukojevic plays the game in a pretty simple, effective way. He has a physical side that is especially intriguing and a maturity to the way that he defends that keeps him in the top two rounds for me. He can adjust especially well to how a game is being played. But if he does not develop more of an offensive element to his game, it's going to be hard to make it to the next level. Vukojevic can make a good first pass, but plays the game more like a throwback as opposed to what more teams are looking for today. Still, there's a level of athleticism and hockey sense that makes me feel he could figure things out.
60. Samuel Bolduc, D, Blainville-Boisbriand (QMJHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-4 | Wt: 209 | Shot: L
65 GP | 9 G | 28 A
One of the better athletes in the entire draft, Bolduc is a great skater in a very large frame. There's a raw talent there that can really explode if he continues on his current development arc. The offensive game still needs work, but he has a heavy shot from the point and moves the puck well. Hockey sense is one of the areas that has not quite rounded out yet, as his anticipation needs to come along more. The athleticism is at the top of his class, and that is going to give teams something to work with.
61. Alex Beaucage, RW, Rouyn-Noranda (QMJHL)
Age: 17 | Ht: 6-2 | Wt: 192 | Shot: R
68 GP | 39 G | 40 A
Beaucage can score goals with a higher-end shot and good positioning. His size is a huge help to how he plays the game. I think he'd be a lot higher for me if I thought he was a better skater.
62. Pyotr Kochetkov, G, Ryazan (Russia 2)
Age: 19 | Ht: 6-3 | Wt: 180 | Catch: L
18 GP | 0.93 Sv% | 2.13 GAA
A third-year eligible goaltender, Kochetkov really turned heads at the recent World Juniors. He was named the best goaltender in the tournament after posting a .953 save percentage as Russia won bronze. He was just traded from HK Sochi to SKA St. Petersburg, which may give some teams pause -- SKA is the top club in Russia. But he has the size teams want and showcases tremendous athleticism and an unrelenting competitiveness between the pipes that allow him to stay with plays. He should be the second goaltender off the board.
63. Domenick Fensore, D, USA U18 (NTDP)
Age: 17 | Ht: 5-8 | Wt: 153 | Shot: L
55 GP | 6 G | 36 A
It is really, really hard for smaller defensemen to make it to the NHL. But Fensore is an elite skater with phenomenal edges and mobility. He jumps into plays but can get back quickly. Is he going to lose a lot of battles along the wall? Yes, but when he has the puck, he can get it out of his zone with his feet or a good pass. He is dynamic in so many ways, I'd rather draft him now than have to overpay for him as an undrafted free agent later.
64. Anttoni Honka, D, Jukurit (Finland)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 175 | Shot: R
27 GP | 3 G | 5 A
I had Honka graded as a potential first-rounder coming into this season. But there's been little to no progression in his game from last year. He needed to be better defensively, and it's still a sore spot. His puck skills and skating are solid, but his decision making is suspect. He's an average-sized defenseman who isn't making crisp decisions. That's going to be a problem, even while the skills are good enough to suggest he's got offensive upside.
65. Mikko Kokkonen, D, Jukurit (Finland)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 200 | Shot: L
56 GP | 3 G | 16 A
Kokkonen's 19 points in 56 games is the third-highest total for a defenseman in Liiga history -- higher than that of Miro Heiskanen and Rasmus Ristolainen. His puck moving is solid, and he makes good decisions and defends fine. His skating is an issue, though. There's a good foundation there for Kokkonen to build off, but the feet have to come, too.
66. Graeme Clarke, RW, Ottawa (OHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 175 | Shot: R
55 GP | 23 G | 11 A
I see a lot of skill and potential in Clarke, but I also see a player who hasn't quite put it all together just yet. He can get there, and he did put together a really strong performance in the OHL playoffs with 14 points in 18 games. There just are enough unanswered questions about his game that I feel it's important to hedge some with him.
67. Mikhail Abramov, C, Victoriaville (QMJHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 161 | Shot: L
62 GP | 16 G | 38 A
I like players who can combine smarts with competitiveness and that's what I've seen from Abramov. He's defensively sound and can match up against anybody. One opposing coach thought he was the toughest matchup on Russia's roster. He's also defensively sound and has some skill. Abramov has good vision and can make solid, crisp passes.
68. Artemi Kniazev, D, Chicoutimi (QMJHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 182 | Shot: L
55 GP | 13 G | 21 A
Kniazev is one of the more intriguing defensemen in this class. He's shown some really solid skills and can really stretch the ice with his passes. His mobility is solid, and he defends adequately. But there are definitely instances when he can get himself into trouble. If his offensive game continues on the track it is, the points are going to come and he will really break out as a prospect. There's risk here, but I like what he has to offer with his skill.
69. Zachary Jones, D, Tri-City (USHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-10 | Wt: 172 | Shot: L
56 GP | 7 G | 45 A
Jones has flown a little under the radar for a defenseman with more than 50 points in the USHL. He is a very good puckhandler who is creative on the blue line and in transition. Sometimes he's almost too confident in his skill and makes some poor decisions with the puck when there's a simpler play available to him. He's average sized and defends more than adequately. He was a factor in just about every game I saw him play this season.
70. Henri Nikkanen, C, Jukurit Jr. (Finland Jr.)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-4 | Wt: 200 | Shot: L
14 GP | 2 G | 7 A
He battled injuries over the course of the season, which limits his portfolio. But Nikkanen is a big kid with a great shot and quick release, and he moves well enough.
71. Ronnie Attard, D, Tri-City (USHL)
Age: 20 | Ht: 6-4 | Wt: 205 | Shot: R
48 GP | 30 G | 34 A
A late bloomer, Attard put together one of the best seasons by a USHL defenseman after just 15 points a year ago. Big spikes in production like this are going to be viewed in different ways, but when it's so substantial and the player showcases improved overall abilities, it's going to get you drafted. Attard has a bomb from the point but can also jump into plays and reads plays well. To be that big and score that much in a league that is traditionally difficult to produce in is a pretty special accomplishment.
72. Marshall Warren, D, USA U18 (NTDP)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 170 | Shot: L
58 GP | 8 G | 26 A
With incredible skating ability and skill, Warren is an intriguing talent. I get concerned with the decisions he makes with the puck; I saw too many cases of forcing stuff when there were other options. But he has the skill to make a boatload of plays, too. Some of the mistakes could be cleared up with more maturity and experience. Despite a smaller frame, he is physically strong and it really shows up in his footwork and skating. He's got some special abilities, but there's a lot of risk in his game right now.
73. Maxim Cajkovic, RW, Saint John (QMJHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 185 | Shot: R
60 GP | 22 G | 24 A
After his incredible performance at the 2018 U18 World Championship as an underager, Cajkovic came into this season with a ton of hype. He didn't really live up to it, but he has an elite release and some shiftiness that gives defenders fits. I just want to see more of a level of consistency.
74. Rhett Pitlick, LW, Chaska (High-MN)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-9 | Wt: 160 | Shot: L
25 GP | 28 G | 33 A
Pitlick has tremendous skill and speed, plays at a great pace and really challenged high school defenders. But there are some big questions about how he'd do against bigger, stronger players. His father, Lance, played nearly 400 games in the NHL, and brother Rem made his debut with the Nashville Predators this season.
75. Antti Saarela, C, Lukko (Finland)
Age: 17 | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 190 | Shot: L
24 GP | 2 G | 8 A
Quick puck skills stand out for Saarela, who saw time in Finland's top pro league this season. He also plays with some jump and has enough grit to get to the dirty areas of the ice. His defensive game needs work, but I like the way he plays in puck pursuit. Strength could go a long way for him.
76. Samuel Fagemo, LW, Frolunda (Sweden)
Age: 19 | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 190 | Shot: R
42 GP | 14 G | 11 A
A reentry to this year's draft, Fagemo comes in having had success at the SHL level this season. He was second among U20 players in Sweden's top pro league with 25 points. His offensive skills are good, but the skating is only average for me. He's pretty physically developed and has an average-sized frame. Fagemo has good vision and can make plays, but the lack of a dynamic element in his skill set has left me a little underwhelmed at times this season.
77. Billy Constantinou, D, Kingston (OHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 190 | Shot: R
66 GP | 10 G | 23 A
Constantinou's stock dipped a bit this season after he was traded from contending Niagara to bottom-of-the-league Kingston. But I've always marveled at his skating. His edgework is phenomenal, and he can change directions in a hurry. I'm a little concerned about his hockey sense, as he makes some poor decisions with the puck and can overcomplicate the game when he senses pressure.
78. Karl Henriksson, C, Frolunda Jr. (Sweden Jr.)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-9 | Wt: 176 | Shot: L
45 GP | 13 G | 36 A
Henriksson is an especially clever player who can make plays in tight. He can hang around the perimeter a little too much as a slight player, but I'm betting on his skill. In addition to being an exceptional hockey player, Henriksson was also a promising soccer player who got a tryout within Sweden's national team system at the U20 levels. That may be where some of his creativity comes from.
79. Marcus Kallionkieli, LW, Sioux City (USHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-2 | Wt: 195 | Shot: L
58 GP | 29 G | 24 A
An intriguing talent who has both good size and a higher-end shot, Kallionkieli fared exceptionally well in his first season in North America. He scored at a reasonably high clip but also saw his production dip without his elite playmaking linemate Bobby Brink. That raised some concerns about his overall game. The finishing tools he has are legit, but now he has to focus on creating scoring chances more on his own.
80. Daniil Gutik, LW, Yaroslavl 2 (Russia Jr.)
Age: 17 | Ht: 6-3 | Wt: 179 | Shot: R
36 GP | 5 G | 8 A
If you catch Gutik on a good day, you'd think he's an all-world talent. He has exceptional skill for such a big player. There's vision and creativity in his game, too. The issue is Gutik doesn't always have his A game and was left off of Russia's U18 team as a result. I'll bet on his size and skill and hope that maturity fixes the flaws in his game. In my opinion, he has first-round talent and upside, but the work ethic and inconsistency risks can't be ignored.
81. Albert Johansson, D, Farjestad Jr. (Sweden Jr.)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 165 | Shot: L
40 GP | 5 G | 24 A
A heady defenseman with some skill, Johansson moves the puck fine and has enough offense to be a threat.
82. Judd Caulfield, RW, USA U18 (NTDP)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-4 | Wt: 205 | Shot: R
64 GP | 12 G | 24 A
Caulfield has versatility and decent wheels for a big player. His work ethic and ability to win battles along the walls are important, but he has some finish to contribute offensively, too.
83. Antti Tuomisto, D, Assat Jr. (Finland Jr.)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-5 | Wt: 193 | Shot: R
45 GP | 9 G | 26 A
Tuomisto is a towering defenseman with raw talent but also some notable holes in his game, particularly short-distance quickness. He struggles in faster-paced games.
84. Michael Koster, D, Chaska (High-MN)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-9 | Wt: 172 | Shot: L
24 GP | 19 G | 40 A
A high-end skater, Koster does everything at a relatively quick pace. He's an adequate defender, but his talent is in using creativity and quickness to get pucks out of the zone and up the ice.
85. Dillon Hamaliuk, LW, Seattle (WHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-3 | Wt: 190 | Shot: L
31 GP | 11 G | 15 A
Having missed a large chunk of the season, he's flown under the radar. But Hamaliuk has some solid skills packed into a big frame. I also like the energy and pace he plays with as a bigger forward.
86. Mattias Norlinder, D, Modo Jr. (Sweden Jr.)
Age: 19 | Ht: 6-0 | Wt: 187 | Shot: L
30 GP | 5 G | 16 A
Norlinder is a second-year eligible and really popped late in the season after he started averaging top-four minutes. There's a lot of upside there.
87. John Farinacci, C, Dexter School (High-MA)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 190 | Shot: R
16 GP | 12 G | 21 A
Farinacci spent most of the season on the shelf with injury, but in key settings, he showed tremendous two-way skills and on-ice work ethic. Farinacci also has the skill to finish, and he should build strength to maximize his potential.
88. Mads Sogaard, G, Medicine Hat (WHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-8 | Wt: 199 | Catch: L
37 GP | 0.921 Sv% | 2.64 GAA
A mountain in net, the big Dane has great mobility and athleticism packed into his size. He has some good poise and solid hockey sense, but the jury is still out on how he handles higher-pressure situations. There's so much upside here, though.
89. Jordan Spence, D, Moncton (QMJHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-10 | Wt: 177 | Shot: R
68 GP | 6 G | 43 A
An average-sized defenseman with some solid puck skills and the ability to get the puck up ice quickly, Spence really popped this season in his first year of major junior. Spence also showcased good two-way capabilities at the World U18 Championship.
90. Matias Maccelli, LW, Dubuque (USHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 165 | Shot: L
62 GP | 31 G | 41 A
Maccelli has good puck skills, is clever offensively and plays quick. One issue is that he can hang around the perimeter a little too much.
91. Joshua Nodler, C, Fargo (USHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 194 | Shot: R
54 GP | 17 G | 25 A
Nodler seems to be only scratching the surface of his ability. I've seen high-end hockey sense and vision in his game, and he passes the puck exceptionally well.
92. Aaron Huglen, RW, Roseau (High-MN)
Age: 18 | Ht: 5-11 | Wt: 166 | Shot: R
24 GP | 17 G | 35 A
A dominant player in the Minnesota high school ranks, Huglen has a lot of skill and higher-end hockey sense. He just needs to get a bit stronger to be more effective.
93. Jackson LaCombe, D, Shattuck St. Mary's Prep (High-MN)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-2 | Wt: 187 | Shot: L
54 GP | 22 G | 67 A
LaCombe is a project, but an exciting one since he has decent size and skates exceptionally well. He's only been a defenseman for two seasons and still has plenty to learn, but he has intriguing skill.
94. Keean Washkurak, C, Mississauga (OHL)
Age: 17 | Ht: 5-10 | Wt: 184 | Shot: L
66 GP | 16 G | 31 A
Washkurak stands out for his energy, solid all-around play and work ethic. He has some decent skills and hockey sense that help round out his game.
95. Michal Teply, LW, Benatky N.J. (Czech 2)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-3 | Wt: 187 | Shot: R
23 GP | 4 G | 6 A
Teply shows impressive flashes of skill and creativity. The issue has been consistency. In faster-paced games, he occasionally disappears.
96. Martin Hugo Has, D, Tappara Jr. (Finland Jr.)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-4 | Wt: 192 | Shot: R
37 GP | 9 G | 7 A
A raw but talented defenseman, Has plays a solid brand of defense with some physicality. He's mobile, and I think he has the skill to produce more, but his offensive game needs work.
Nikita Okhotyuk, D, Ottawa (OHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-1 | Wt: 198 | Shot: L
56 GP | 2 G | 15 A
A relative lack of production is a moderate concern, but Okhotyuk has good mobility, defends well and has enough skill to suggest that he may be able to find another gear offensively one day. It's just not something I'd bank on.
98. Joseph Carroll, C, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-2 | Wt: 200 | Shot: L
65 GP | 9 G | 22 A
One of the more intriguing and confounding players in this draft class, Carroll is a remarkable athlete with decent speed and fair skill. He has a high-end release on his shot, too, but he simply didn't produce on a team where points should have come fairly easily.
99. Tyce Thompson, RW, Providence (Hockey East)
Age: 19 | Ht: 6-1 | Wt: 178 | Shot: R
42 GP | 8 G | 17 A
A second-year eligible, Thompson shows some remarkable playmaking abilities and vision, proving to be an offensive catalyst.
100. Cole Schwindt, RW, Mississauga (OHL)
Age: 18 | Ht: 6-2 | Wt: 182 | Shot: R
68 GP | 19 G | 30 A
Schwindt has good size and showcased flashes of pretty good skill this season. Now I'd like to see a bit more consistency in his offensive game.