I’m pretty sure that Habs are not gonna take Kotkaniemi at 3. They probably trade their pick for higher number between 5-10 if they take him. They can’t take that kind of risk in their situation right now.
I am not so sure. To be honest, I think too big of a deal have been made about Kotkaniemi being picked high because he is a center.
Why should Kotkaniemi not be picked over other guys in that range? I think arguments can be made both ways. I’ve liked Kotkaniemi a long time and had him top 10 long before anyone had him top 15. The kid is just very good, complete, solid across the board. Boqvist/Wahlstrom is more elite in some areas, but look at guys like Barzal and Keller and co — doing well is about playing good hockey. Kotkaniemi is a really good player.