2022 Draft Discussion (after the trade)

[AnThGrt]

I'm trying to figure out what it is people don't like about Howard, honestly.

The way he plays is unlikely to transfer to the NHL and for his size not nearly a good enough skater. I would think of him as a similar prospect to T. Madden (draft yr I would have slightly preferred Madden).

I would not be opposed to him if there at 19 yet not my top choice either. McGroarty is extremely commonly being mocked to LA. I think he is solid option and in my likely top 5 realistic options with #19 yet unsure on his upside too. I think realistic one ends up with a 3rd line C and we should be swinging for the fences not going safe with the depth we already possess.

If any of the following drop or there they would easily be my pick above the two above: Mintyukov, Korchinski, Mateychuck, Mirosnichenko, Yurov, Lambert, and Nazar. Right now all of them are outside of the top 10 or just barely cracking the top 10. That is 7 guys though and I feel like there is a good chance one of them is there at #19. They are all in a clear tier or two above McGroarty and Howard. If going into that tier and looking for the big body prefer we grab Bichsel as a solid value pick, but perfect team value.

 

[ricardfromage]

It could be league GMs are taking note of not just the play of Eric Cernak, but also what he means to the team. Eric was drafted in the early to mid 2nd round, and has been a decent part of Tampa's Cup runs. Looking back at that draft pick now, I have to give it up to the Kings draft scouts. They nailed it with him.

For this draft, I'd pop open a cold one if the Kings ended up with one of the following three guys. And heck, I'd pop open a 6 pack if they ended up with two of them, as what each of them bring to the rink is sorely missing here. Even Drew mentioned this recently.

Lian Bichsel LD
Noah Warren RD
Maveric Lamoureux RD

I have a little experience with Warren. He is a really nice kid but having seen him play in person I would pass. He could become a really solid NHLer but he is further away than Bichsel and not as good as Lamoureux.

I'm trying to figure out what it is people don't like about Howard, honestly.

Could be his diminutive size? I mean 5'10" 188 isn't anything to sneeze at but some size queens might disagree. I think he will end up being a true steal of this draft if he is taken later than 18th OA.

 

[ricardfromage]

The way he plays is unlikely to transfer to the NHL and for his size not nearly a good enough skater. I would think of him as a similar prospect to T. Madden (draft yr I would have slightly preferred Madden).

I would not be opposed to him if there at 19 yet not my top choice either. McGroarty is extremely commonly being mocked to LA. I think he is solid option and in my likely top 5 realistic options with #19 yet unsure on his upside too. I think realistic one ends up with a 3rd line C and we should be swinging for the fences not going safe with the depth we already possess.

If any of the following drop or there they would easily be my pick above the two above: Mintyukov, Korchinski, Mateychuck, Mirosnichenko, Yurov, Lambert, and Nazar. Right now all of them are outside of the top 10 or just barely cracking the top 10. That is 7 guys though and I feel like there is a good chance one of them is there at #19. They are all in a clear tier or two above McGroarty and Howard. If going into that tier and looking for the big body prefer we grab Bichsel as a solid value pick, but perfect team value.

I dunno. I mean I like Miro a ton but am afraid of Lambert's ability to Casper on the ice. He seems to be getting worse too. Could grow out of it but who knows. I really like Nazar but believe he will go at 15 or 16. I am not so high on Minty or Yurov. I like Yurov but he is one of those flashes of brilliance guys and not so much the rest of the time. When he is on he is slick as snot but when he isn't he stands out as being average at best. I would also add that McG hits like a freight train is tenacious in his own end and is a really smart player. He is far from being simply a depth player. We are overloaded on skill forwards in so far as our system is concerned but not so much so when it comes to Dustin Brown replacement types.

I mean ATOM could fill that role and likely will (not saying he will be all things DB but that he should become our power forward with solid skills 2nd/3rd liner) but we need heavy hitting character types who like physical play and can still provide better than average O skills too.

I disagree where Howard is concerned. He is an extremely fast skater with elite hands who sees the ice as well as anyone in this draft. He is a top 6er all the way if he makes it. But if we land either McG,Howard, Miro or Mintyfresh we should be very happy. IF Nazar falls to us even more so. Bichsel as well.

 

[Docgonzo]

I’ve started to notice Gleb Trikozov’s name getting mentioned a lot more last few days. From what I’m reading it’d be a good swing for the fences pick, maybe 2nd round if he lasts that long?

 

[Raccoon Jesus]

The way he plays is unlikely to transfer to the NHL and for his size not nearly a good enough skater. I would think of him as a similar prospect to T. Madden (draft yr I would have slightly preferred Madden).

I would not be opposed to him if there at 19 yet not my top choice either. McGroarty is extremely commonly being mocked to LA. I think he is solid option and in my likely top 5 realistic options with #19 yet unsure on his upside too. I think realistic one ends up with a 3rd line C and we should be swinging for the fences not going safe with the depth we already possess.

If any of the following drop or there they would easily be my pick above the two above: Mintyukov, Korchinski, Mateychuck, Mirosnichenko, Yurov, Lambert, and Nazar. Right now all of them are outside of the top 10 or just barely cracking the top 10. That is 7 guys though and I feel like there is a good chance one of them is there at #19. They are all in a clear tier or two above McGroarty and Howard. If going into that tier and looking for the big body prefer we grab Bichsel as a solid value pick, but perfect team value.

I probably should have specified 'at our spot.' I can understand why people wouldn't take him in some of the ranges I've seen, 7-10. At our spot, seems to make more sense, But I agree, I have other guys over him, including all of yours. I agree we're in a great spot for a potential faller and need quality over another 'safe play.' take a home run swing.

I also get the feeling Blake and co. have 'their guy' that they'd trade up to 15 for if he's still around (Minty? Miroshinenko?)

Could be his diminutive size? I mean 5'10" 188 isn't anything to sneeze at but some size queens might disagree. I think he will end up being a true steal of this draft if he is taken later than 18th OA.

It's possible. Might also be an 'identity' thing. A lot of guys in the top 10 have at least one game breaking/elite skill, Howard's not quite that guy, he's sort of a nondescript scorer relative to the other top 10 guys. It just gets done when he's out there.

 

[kinghock]

The way he plays is unlikely to transfer to the NHL and for his size not nearly a good enough skater. I would think of him as a similar prospect to T. Madden (draft yr I would have slightly preferred Madden).

I would not be opposed to him if there at 19 yet not my top choice either. McGroarty is extremely commonly being mocked to LA. I think he is solid option and in my likely top 5 realistic options with #19 yet unsure on his upside too. I think realistic one ends up with a 3rd line C and we should be swinging for the fences not going safe with the depth we already possess.

If any of the following drop or there they would easily be my pick above the two above: Mintyukov, Korchinski, Mateychuck, Mirosnichenko, Yurov, Lambert, and Nazar. Right now all of them are outside of the top 10 or just barely cracking the top 10. That is 7 guys though and I feel like there is a good chance one of them is there at #19. They are all in a clear tier or two above McGroarty and Howard. If going into that tier and looking for the big body prefer we grab Bichsel as a solid value pick, but perfect team value.

I would like Kings to take one of these LD in first round: Mateychuck, Mintyukov, or Korchinski.

I would like Kings to take one of these LD or RD in second round: Isiah George, Artyom Barabosha, or Lian Bishel.

P.S. Isiah George and Artyom Barabosha are 2 of the most physical players of this draft class

 

[All The Kings Men]

 

[Lt Dan]

#baldbrotherhood

 

[SmytheKing]

I love the draft simulators that are out there, and I'm just having a lot of fun with the speculation. I messed around with the one at Draft Simulator and did two different ones. One I traded down and picked up some extras from Phoenix. I have to believe they aren't going to use all the picks they have and not try to move up. This result is definitely not happening, but it sure would be nice:

Then I did it with just the picks the Kings have and got this. Seems not at all unrealistic and I'd be pretty happy with these guys.

Getting a goal scorer with a high compete level, a big defenseman with good hockey sense...and blemishes to be fair, a large and athletic goaltender, and then a couple of projects who may or may not pan out...but could be gold if they do.

I'm no scout though so what do I know?

 

[Docgonzo]

I love the draft simulators that are out there, and I'm just having a lot of fun with the speculation. I messed around with the one at Draft Simulator and did two different ones. One I traded down and picked up some extras from Phoenix. I have to believe they aren't going to use all the picks they have and not try to move up. This result is definitely not happening, but it sure would be nice:

View attachment 558461

Then I did it with just the picks the Kings have and got this. Seems not at all unrealistic and I'd be pretty happy with these guys.

View attachment 558462

Getting a goal scorer with a high compete level, a big defenseman with good hockey sense...and blemishes to be fair, a large and athletic goaltender, and then a couple of projects who may or may not pan out...but could be gold if they do.

I'm no scout though so what do I know?

I did that but picked Cutter Gauthier at 19 since I couldn’t pass him up.

If the Kings could trade back with the Coyotes and get Miroshnichenko AND one of Bishel/Pickering if they fall to the second that’s be awesome. Highly highly doubtful but I’ll dream.

 

[Schrute farms]

IDK what we're doing with #1 (trade, picking a sniper, picking a power forward, etc.). But I'm going to call it now and say we utilize either #85 or #115 along #51 to move into the early 2nd and get someone they really like who's available.

Also, the goalie Topias at #85 seems to be a very solid guess of a pick for the Kings. If we've already trade away #85, then maybe we trade the rest or a future pick to get this guy in the 3rd.

 

[Raccoon Jesus]

Kings really should be using all of their later picks to get all of their stuff done by pick 40 heh

I'm sure they've got some good value targets for later and I love what they do in late rounds but quality > quantity at this stage and picks like 15-45ish are all a blob

 

[SmytheKing]

Kings really should be using all of their later picks to get all of their stuff done by pick 40 heh

I'm sure they've got some good value targets for later and I love what they do in late rounds but quality > quantity at this stage and picks like 15-45ish are all a blob

I feel like this draft has so many "he's really good except there's this one big issue" type players that the quality > quantity discussion a weird one. It's almost like in this draft it's better to get a few players instead of one since they're all in a similar tier once you get past the early teens.

 

[AnThGrt]

I would like Kings to take one of these LD in first round: Mateychuck, Mintyukov, or Korchinski.

I would like Kings to take one of these LD or RD in second round: Isiah George, Artyom Barabosha, or Lian Bishel.

P.S. Isiah George and Artyom Barabosha are 2 of the most physical players of this draft class

I would love one of those D yet they will all be gone by 13. Between ANA/SJ there are two of them gone. Would have to move up to secure one of those 3.

I actually love what S. Wheeler had to say in his mock draft and strongly agree, "If I’m a member of the Kings’ staff, my list starts and ends with Lambert, Yurov and Ivan Miroshnichenko here, with the Finn as the more likely pick over the Russians given the uncertainty around Yurov getting over here and Miroshnichenko’s health"

If one of those is there and no one else dropped and we pass on those.... It will be disappointing. McGroarty, Snuggerud, Mesar, Kulich, etc would be solid yet given our pool dumb picks to make. Swing for the fences and potential not mid six guys who will not put up big numbers in the NHL unless a Bichsel as D and something we lack.

 

[LAKings88]

I’m having a hard time getting invested in the draft this year. Hoping the pick is moved in a deal for some scoring or LHD.

 

[Lt Dan]

I did that but picked Cutter Gauthier at 19 since I couldn’t pass him up.

The Kings need him on name alone

We could all wear "I'll cut you" t-shirts

 

[Herby]

I’m having a hard time getting invested in the draft this year. Hoping the pick is moved in a deal for some scoring or LHD.

I'm kind of in the same boat. Am more hoping the Kings don't draft a Michigan player than they pick any particular player.

Next years draft is going to be way more excited and impactful than this one.

 

[apadilla]

I love the draft simulators that are out there, and I'm just having a lot of fun with the speculation. I messed around with the one at Draft Simulator and did two different ones. One I traded down and picked up some extras from Phoenix. I have to believe they aren't going to use all the picks they have and not try to move up. This result is definitely not happening, but it sure would be nice:

View attachment 558461

Then I did it with just the picks the Kings have and got this. Seems not at all unrealistic and I'd be pretty happy with these guys.

View attachment 558462

Getting a goal scorer with a high compete level, a big defenseman with good hockey sense...and blemishes to be fair, a large and athletic goaltender, and then a couple of projects who may or may not pan out...but could be gold if they do.

I'm no scout though so what do I know?

Your first simulation is outrageously good! I don't think the Kings have ever had Maveric. I say do it!

And Aleksanteri Kaskimaki. Try saying that 5 times fast, haha.

 

[King'sPawn]

I’m having a hard time getting invested in the draft this year.

That's normal. The draft usually opens up a lot after the tenth pick, so you can't really even get invested in a potential player. Once the picks get called, then it's easier to want to get to know them.

 

[Herby]

That's normal. The draft usually opens up a lot after the tenth pick, so you can't really even get invested in a potential player. Once the picks get called, then it's easier to want to get to know them.

As weird as this sounds, I feel like the scouting reports on players have gotten worse over the last couple of decades since I started following it closely.

 

[Fat Elvis]

Did the simulator thing and ended up with the following.

19. Denton Mateychuk LD
51. Alexander Suzdalev LW
85. Tyler Brennan G
115. Topi Ronni C
147. Noah Warren RD
179. Jakub Hujer LW

Ehh, not sure this moves the needle any. Though I do like Mateychuk @ 19.

Ran it again and it work out like this.

19. McGroarty C/W
51. Bichsel LHD
85. Lamoureux LHD
115. Hunter Haight C
147. Elias Pettersson LHD
179. Noah Warren RD

Which would immediately add scoring, size, grit and LHD to the system

 

[Herby]

The simulator has the Kings 4 biggest needs all being wingers. goal-scoring, goal-scoring, power, power. But it has probably had the same thing for the last 5 drafts.

I get the BPA strategy, but there comes a point some quality picks have to be used on the position. Even with the previous failures, you need to keep trying to draft guys that can put the puck in the net.

Ofcourse I just did it and I am faced with all the forwards either being NCAA or European, which scares me picking one of those.

btw, Denton Mateychuk is the most Western Canadian name ever.

 

[KINGS17]

The simulator has the Kings 4 biggest needs all being wingers. goal-scoring, goal-scoring, power, power. But it has probably had the same thing for the last 5 drafts.

I get the BPA strategy, but there comes a point some quality picks have to be used on the position. Even with the previous failures, you need to keep trying to draft guys that can put the puck in the net.

Ofcourse I just did it and I am faced with all the forwards either being NCAA or European, which scares me picking one of those.

btw, Denton Mateychuk is the most Western Canadian name ever.

I solved all of these problems in the draft simulation last year. WTF is wrong with Blake?

 

[Peter James Bond II]

I think a good player will be available at 19 : Howard, Pickering, Bichsel, Snuggerud...
(Snuggerud may be a steal at 19: Scout 1: “I would take Snuggerud. He’s continued to get better and better, he’s so far ahead of where he was a year ago. He’s big, skilled, competes, and can score. I think he’s scratching the surface.”)

But, would love to see the Kings trade up, 12-17, (except Nucks 15 not being trade partners)
for 1 of: Mateychuk, McGroarty, Nazar...although I think Nazar will not fall to 12 and NO WAY Cutter does...he seems to be currently in the top 5.

Mateychuk - seems to be the best LHD, in terms of offsense, defense mix.

Denton Mateychuk's Player Profile​

from ATHLETIC::: Executive 2: “If he was 6-1 we would be talking about him in the top five of the draft.”

Nick Richard - Dobber Prospects - Mar. 20th: "Mateychuk blends elite skating ability with good vision and intelligent reads to drive play from the back end. He picks his spots well but has been more engaged offensively this season and his production reflects that."

Sam Cosentino - Sportsnet - Mar. 9: "Mature beyond his years, he has the ability to adjust his game based on team needs, and that is typically helpful in hastening the path to the NHL."

Peter Baracchini - The Hockey Writers - Mar. 1st: "Mateychuk is a quick skating, smooth transitional player that plays with a high motor when at top speed. He’s always aggressive when it comes to carrying the puck and attacking the offensive zone with conviction."

Scott Wheeler - The Athletic - Feb. 14th: "He’s already a plus-level skater, which helps him escape pressure with his feet, walk the line, and steer opposing players into tough spots despite not being the biggest guy. He’s the definition — or close — of the modern defenceman."

Josh Bell - SportingNews/FC Hockey - Dec. 23rd: "He’s one of the best skaters in the class and never takes his foot off the gas. The Moose Jaw Warriors defender shows very strong offensive awareness, always seemingly looking to jump up into the rush. But is a very strong presence in his own zone as well, forcing turnovers and leading the transition game."

Rutger McGroarty - seems to be the type of winger the Kings lack and need: (similar to last years riser, Mason MacTavish?)

From ATHLKETIC:
Scout 3: “It’s Rutger McGroarty. His compete is elite, he has skill, he scores, he has good hockey sense. The feet are tough but you know he’s going to work at it to improve that area.”

Peter Baracchini - The Hockey Writers - Mar. 1st: "Already with an NHL-like frame at 6-foot, 205 pounds, he has tremendous strength and is a dual threat with his playmaking and goal scoring skillset. He struggled at times at the beginning of the season, but he has been better consistently in regards to his overall play and production as he ranks fifth on the NTDP with 43 points."

Scott Wheeler - The Athletic - Feb. 14th: "He’s got raw skill that shows up in his great hands and maneuverability with the puck. His finishing touch around the net is definitely there. He can really thrill when he’s on and the ice normally tilts in his favour out there."

Josh Bell - SportingNews/FC Hockey - Dec. 23rd: "An extremely intelligent player with great competitiveness, McGroarty has been known for his ability to score goals and rack up points and he’s continued to do that with the National Team Development Program. He’s been showing off his playmaking more and more, putting his excellent vision on display game in and game out."

Frank Nazar:

ATHLETIC: Executive 1: “It’s clearly Nazar for me. His skating is awesome, he plays on the inside, he has a lot of skill. I think the potential there is really enticing.”
Scout 2: “I saw the remark from Nazar about your scouting report that he can be like Brayden Point. That’s high, but I don’t think he’s that far off. He’s a big time talent whose game will work as a pro.”

Peter Baracchini - The Hockey Writers - Mar. 1st: "The offensive dynamo has been constantly gaining attention and has a great chance to crack the top-10. He’s quick, crafty and a complete offensive threat whenever the puck is on his stick. "

Scott Wheeler - The Athletic - Feb. 14th: "He flashes creativity throughout his games. He plays pucks into space as well as anyone in the draft, regularly executing through tight gaps in coverage. And he’s just a hungry, driven player who consistently targets the middle lane with his greatest asset: his skating."

Josh Bell - SportingNews/FC Hockey - Dec. 23rd: "His relentless motor makes it hard to peel your eye from him when he’s on the ice. He battles hard, showing strong efforts in both ends of the rink. This is aided by his strong skating, allowing him to win a great number of races to the puck."

 

[SmytheKing]

Jani Nyman is another possible target in the 2nd. He sounds a LOT like Kaliyev. Wicked shot and good size. Looks disinterested at times and needs to work on his compete level.