Intro
Hi all, here's my draft rankings for the upcoming draft along with my analysis for the first two rounds of prospects. I'll first just do some housekeeping and mention a few FAQ's. I don't rank goalies, I'll leave that to the goalie experts. While I haven't seen full footage of every player on the list, I've at least watched highlights or clips for everyone listed. There's always players that fall through the cracks but please fire away if you have any questions, I'm happy to answer or share my thought process.
Previous Rankings
2022 Final Rankings: Tryamkin's Final 2022 Draft Rankings Guide
2021 Final Rankings: Tryamkin's Final 2021 Draft Rankings Guide
2020 Final Rankings: Tryamkin's Final 2020 Draft Rankings Guide
2019 Final Rankings: Tryamkin's Final 2019 Draft Rankings Guide
2018 Final Rankings: Tryamkin’s Final 2018 Draft Rankings Guide
2017 Final Rankings: Tryamkin's Final 2017 Draft Rankings Guide
2023 Rankings
1. C Connor Bedard - Regina Pats, WHL
A generational talent doesn’t come around too often but Bedard is certainly that. An offensive dynamo with a mouthwatering skillset headlined by one of the best shots ever seen at a junior level. Soft hands and great transitional skill leads to dangerous offense where he consistently chooses the best option. An above average skater with solid physical tools for his height. Skill and brains exempt any worry that his size may create.
2. RW Matvei Michkov - HK Sochi, KHL
Oozing with top end skill, Michkov is firmly the second best prospect of this class. A real talented puck handler who is ultra slippery on the puck and is always searching for ways to infiltrate the defense and finish the puck. Uses his puck manipulation to create for teammates as well with a solid vision and IQ pairing. His play against men with Sochi has proven that despite his smaller size (150-160 lbs depending on who you ask) he can hang against fully grown men. Despite the politics at the moment, Michkov is the second best talent in the draft and even if you have to wait four years to see him in North America, he is the real deal.
3. C Adam Fantilli - Univ. of Michigan, NCAA
Fantilli is so easy to project as a top line center in the NHL for a multitude of reasons. His size and skill combo is really next level. While he doesn’t have the shooting of Bedard, it’s certainly no slouch either. Loads of power and deadly accuracy. I’m a real fan of his attentiveness and effort in the defensive zone. He really gives an effort and creates turnovers on both sides of the ice, using his size well which will translate well to the NHL.
4. C/LW Leo Carlsson - Orebro HK, SHL
Carlsson lands at number four on my list, but he could easily be number three here. I’m projecting both Fantilli and Carlsson to be similarly effective at the NHL, however Fantilli wins the tiebreaker by not casting a shadow of a doubt about his position in the NHL. Carlsson is a big bodied forward who has played on the wing and at center in the SHL, producing at a real encouraging rate for Orebro. While the term ‘Jack of All Trades’ has been used in the hockey world to describe a more vanilla prospect, Carlsson can be described as such. He really excels at most every skill desirable for a top forward in the NHL.
5. RW/C Matthew Wood - Connecticut, NCAA
Wood is a player I’m extremely high on for this upcoming draft. While he finds himself near the middle of the first round in most rankings, he sits firmly in my top five. Wood often gets shuffled down rankings due to his sloppy skating, however a massive growth spurt adding six or seven inches of height in a short period of time is bound to make things incredibly more difficult to coordinate. After finding his footing this season, his skating and wrist shot looked drastically improved by the end of Connecticut’s season. Another winger than count be molded into a center, Wood has legitimate top line potential and possesses the talent to surprise teams in a few years when he really starts putting things together.
6. LW Zach Benson - Winnipeg Ice, WHL
Zach Benson is an ultra talented player. The first thing that stands out about him is his smarts on the puck. His brain processes the game at a super high level and he’s able to manipulate the flow of offense to create for his teammates. Despite his diminutive size, Benson should be able to find success at the next level due to a number of his strengths like his skating and adept transitional play.
7. RW/C Ryan Leonard - U18’s, USNTDP
Leonard is a power winger with skill that is ultra projectable in the NHL. With the success of the Tkachuks in the last few years, it’s a fact that hard-nosed players that play with some grit and have high end skill are super valuable. While Leonard may not have the potential of someone like Matthew Tkachuk, his odds of being a high end player and even ending up on a top line at the NHL are quite likely due to these skills. His offensive toolbox is quite impressive, sporting some dynamic puck-handling and playmaking skills to pair with his lethal shot. By my description you would expect I’d be talking about a top five player in the class, however this class is loaded and Leonard lacks an elite potential that would see him in that top five.
8. C Will Smith - U18’s, USNTDP
A playmaking center through and through, Smith’s bread and butter is with the puck on his stick. He uses his soft hands and a great offensive mind to coordinate success in the final third. A pure offensive forward, his success in the NHL relies upon his ability to adapt his physicality and defense to a reliable level. While he’s not a horrible defender, I’m not in the camp that Smith is a solid defender and believe he has some room to grow. I think fundamentally Smith contributes on the defensive end but he doesn’t seem to ever really go out of his way to get his hands dirty. Smith has a bright future and warrants a high spot on any ranking due to his offensive ceiling and the way he opens up defenses with his puck handling ability and hockey IQ.
9. RD David Reinbacher - SC Kloten, Swiss
Reinbacher serves as the new age defenseman. A solid shutdown defender with above average skating and puck carrying skills. Reinbacher excels in transition and has drawn comparisons to Moritz Seider for a reason. Defensively, Reinbacher is a fantastic one on one defender and uses an active stick and his large frame to seal off forwards handily. While Reinbacher can sometimes get fooled by deceptive plays or offensive rotations, this is something that professional development can surely help. While Reinbacher will never be Cale Makar with the puck on his stick turning into a fourth forward or putting up a ton of points, he surely has a future as a top four defenseman at absolute minimum which is something that warrants a top ten selection with the RHD cherry on top.
10. LD Etienne Morin - Moncton Wildcats, QMJHL
Morin slots in as my last player in the top ten and this feels like a solid spot for him. Despite being a 2nd/3rd round prospect as consensus, Morin is extremely underrated. Knocked for his lack of skating prowess and technique, Morin still displays dynamic moves on the puck and carries the puck with extreme confidence. Offensively, Morin joins the rush and can pick out passes at high speeds but his biggest attribute on the attack lies in his shot. He can generate great power and accuracy from all varieties of shots and puts plenty of goals on the board. Defensively, Morin needs some work on his gap control in order to properly shut down rushes and attacks but displays great physicality and has grown defensively over the course of the year. Reminiscent of Thomas Chabot and even Evan Bouchard, Morin has the archetype of a leader and minute muncher who can grow into an ultra-reliable player with some fine tuning.
11. C Oliver Moore - U’18’s, USNTDP
Moore is a dynamic center who showcases Dylan Larkin-esque skating ability. Pairing with this skating ability is a workhorse motor that doesn’t quit. It feels weird to mention skating as a defining feature of one’s game, but it would be remiss to not start off with it for Moore. Despite this skating excellency, Moore needs to work on his consistency offensively. He will create a game-changing play one shift and then go radio silent in future opportunities. We know the skating and drive will be there, but can he put together his offensive talent in a way that will make him worthy of a lottery selection? We’ll have to see.
12. LW Gabe Perreault - U18’s, USNTDP
Perreault is one of the smartest prospects in the class this year, just a real hockey brain that plays a real triple threat offensive game. Hands, shot, playmaking in a real trio of high level abilities. He seems to be forgotten about due to the other three USNTDP prospects and their more projectable NHL games and the question posed most often is “Why is Perreault so low on rankings despite his team leading production?” My answer lies in his skating ability. It doesn’t necessarily look too awful, but he doesn’t generate much power or speed and he often has that ‘quicksand’ look at times. We’ve seen this issue be fixable before through power skating coaches and professional help. Long story short, Perreault is too smart and too skilled to be passed over. Bank on him to become a top six winger.
13. C Dalibor Dvorsky - AIK, Allsvenskan
Dvorsky isn’t someone who will bring the house down with highlight reel flashy skills or plays, but he plays an intelligent and solid two way game. Physically adept, Dvorsky weighs in above 200 lbs already as a 17 year old playing in a men’s league and is not a pushover by any extent. A lethal wrist shot is Dvorsky’s biggest offensive threat, usually summoned after a power move or calculated offensive opportunity. Defensively solid, Dvorsky will be a great addition in the NHL to play at a middle six level at least, giving high effort on both ends of the ice. Despite this success in a great league, Dvorsky only shows moments of high skill and lacks the consistency that indicates that he would be able to grow into a premier player in the NHL.
14. LD Dmitri Simashev - Loko Yaroslavl, MHL
Simashev projects as a player that REQUIRES a lottery selection. A 6’4, smooth skating, physically imposing lock down defender is an eye turning proposition which will make an NHL team very happy. While the production is the one thing holding him back from being one of the first names off the board, that can still be developed. Simashev plays a calm game and doesn’t take risks which is not something you see often from a 17 year old playing in one of the best men’s leagues in the world. Simashev can be a real minute cruncher for an NHL team and someone who can be relied upon heavily.
15. LW Quentin Musty - Sudbury Wolves, OHL
Musty has struggled at times to find a groove in his draft year with the Sudbury Wolves, but he really started to settle in by the end of the year. A real power winger, Musty excels offensively. He’s fantastic at carrying the puck and attacking holes with passes or power moves. He’s great at board play, puck battles and net camping so he really makes his presence felt on the ice. Musty showcases soft hands and can really maneuver the puck in traffic. A real elite wrist shot but he really prefers to attack the net as opposed to shooting from distance which could create problems in the NHL. Defensively, Musty has shown some promise but clearly favors his efforts in the offensive zone.
16. LW Colby Barlow - Owen Sound Attack, OHL
Barlow is a scoring winger through and through. A real shoot first forward who is a danger to score whenever his puck is on the stick in the offensive zone. Barlow is a player that’s ultra projectable as a top six winger due to his shot and compete level. Another large personality trait that works in favor of Barlow is his leadership. Not many draft year prospects earn the captaincy so early in their junior careers, but Barlow leads by example on and off the ice. Barlow’s skating leaves a little room for improvement, specifically in his edges and agility in order to help create more separation at a higher level of play.
17. C Brayden Yager - Moose Jaw Warriors, WHL
As someone who burst onto the WHL scene with a level of hype that almost commended exceptional status, Yager has not developed in the fashion many had hoped. A stagnant draft year with not much improvement has seen him fall in some eyes, but his game still has a solid foundation. A lethal shooter, Yager has some wicked power and accuracy in his shot. He plays a shoot first game with a solid motor and cleans up well defensively. While he has the potential to be a great 200 foot NHLer, this season has left scouts wondering if his game will develop after seeing the same Yager as last season. I’d bank on Yager adding extra layers to his game and becoming a solid center.
18. C Calum Ritchie - Oshawa Generals OHL
Ritchie is someone who has really grown on me over the course of this season. Production wise, Ritchie hasn’t performed up to the expectation of a top twenty pick in the draft, however the eye test does him wonders. Ritchie is a real game winner because he does all the little things you want in a center. Possession control, puck battles, 200 foot game, size exploitation, etc. Offensively, Ritchie exhibits playmaking skill and finds pockets of space for his teammates, usually creating chances with a range of passing and stick-handling. Skating wise, Ritchie needs some work in order to succeed in the pro game. His speed and form is quite lackluster with some room for improvement there. I’d like to see Ritchie take some more risks in his game which could lead to that offensive production taking another leap.
19. LW/C Otto Stenberg - Frolunda HC, J20 Nationell
Stenberg is a player I’ve taken a real liking to this year for a multitude of reasons. Firstly, he has a dangerous offensive presence headlined by a shifty puck-handling repertoire. He will often create high danger plays and finish with an accurate wrister. Naturally, his playmaking is also sound and he uses his puck-handling to create options for teammates as well. Stenberg projects to be a winger at the NHL level and this is a reason why he isn’t a handful of places higher. Top six potential is written all over him however he needs some skating work with a bit of a clunky looking stride.
20. RD Axel Sandin Pellikka - Skelleftea, SHL
ASP is a rare breed in this draft class, a true power play quarterback. Someone who moves well with the puck and transitions very well. A small wart on his transition game shows occasionally when pressured leaving a rushed decision or bad pass that leads to a turnover. Dangerous with the puck on his stick, Sandin-Pellikka boasts a plethora of attacking skills including great vision and puck skills in order to create offense from the point. Defensively, ASP is more solid than others indicate. Being a sub six foot defender incurs natural issues due to size, however Sandin-Pellikka plays a relatively tidy defensive game aside from a lack of focus in coverage and on the rush.
21. RD Tom Willander - Rogle BK, J20 Nationell
Willander is a player shooting up draft boards and a potential lottery pick at this stage. His bread and butter lies in his smooth skating game where he exudes confidence and skill on the puck. Willander breaks out the puck with succession, finding tape to tape passes and starting offense. Defensively, Willander shows strength and physical maturity at the junior level. He can lock down attackers and uses an active stick to win battles and strip opponents. Offensively, Willander needs some growth. His breakouts are often created through his superior skating ability, but he doesn’t have the ability to carry out those breakouts or find next level offensive plays so he’ll either simply square off the puck to a teammate or turn it over when trying to do too much. At the next level, Willander projects as a top four defenseman with limited offensive skill.
22. LW/C Samuel Honzek - Vancouver Giants, WHL
Honzek is a big bodied forward with some soft hands and real talent. His passing ability is top tier and sometimes his great vision results in the best pass that his teammates can’t see or can’t finish. This vision is super projectable and his big frame forecasts a player who is a sure mainstay on an NHL team. His wrist shot is also a big weapon, as he generates lots of power on it and can beat goalies with ease. Honzek needs some work defensively and seems less involved in his own end. He could be a real big bodied winger in the future.
23. LD Tanner Molendyk - Saskatoon Blades, WHL
Players that are worthy of being selected in the first round usually showcase at least one skill that is quantified as high end or even elite. For Tanner Molendyk his skill is his skating ability. Despite not translating this to a ton of offensive success, Molendyk executes near flawless skating at his age, and creates a lot of offense for his team despite what the numbers say. Really deceptive on the puck and got more creative as the year went on. Defensively, he uses his skating ability well and shuts down attackers with ease, using an active stick in combination with his agility. Molendyk has the tools to be dangerous on offense as well so his potential really leads me to believe he can become a solid top four defenseman.
24. C Nate Danielson - Brandon Wheat Kings, WHL
Danielson is a player who rose from outside of the first round this year and showed his well rounded game. Danielson shows skill on attack with his skating and stick-handling, maneuvering the puck at a high pace. He’s also able to slow down the game and not rush into a bad situation. Sometimes it’s hard to evaluate players without other top players on their teams because their great passes or higher level thinking is not understood. Danielson shows potential to become a solid middle six center with a potential at more. He plays a hard working two-way game to support his offensive skill. I’d like to see some more of a playmaking presence on the ice.
25. RW Eduard Sale - HC Kometa Brno, Extraliga
Sale fell all the way down my board through the course of the season for the simple reason of his consistency being one of the poorest of a prospect I’ve watched in recent years. Skill wise, I can rave for paragraphs about his combination of hands and shooting ability or even his dynamic skating that can create quality chances. He really is a dangerous player when he’s engaged but the case throughout this year and especially in international competition has been that he can’t stay consistent from game to game or even in the course of a single game. Even thinking the game, Sale really excels at processing the game and making decisions, however he just shuts off from time to time. He really excels on the power play and can control an offense when he’s engaged.
26. LW Andrew Cristall - Kelowna Rockets, WHL
Cristall is a player that really flashes off the page at you whether it’s on the scoresheet with nearly 100 points or on the ice with dynamic puck-handling and dazzling skill. When I’m talking about puck skills, he seriously can beat defenders in any situation and his skating could even still be improved. He’s great at finishing as well, often building up a play and then using his high level hockey IQ to find gaps in defenses off of rushes. Skill wise, Cristall is seriously in the top five but his drawbacks are critical. Physically, Cristall seems often disinterested or even affected by physical presences around him like a debuff. He will sometimes have moments on the puck where he just puts his head down and tries to do it all himself, just completely tunnel visioned. Cristall’s compete level is low and at times he just seems unwilling to put in the work, especially on defense where he will often just shut off. The promising conclusion to this is that he’s only 17 years old and has room to mature as a player which will surely see him thrive in the NHL due to his offensive treasure chest.
27. C/LW Riley Heidt - Prince George Cougars, WHL
Riley Heidt is an offensive stud, someone who can contribute in all facets offensively. His passing skill is top tier, and it showed in his 72 assists this season. On the powerplay especially, Heidt controlled the flow of play and was a general on the PP. Heidt isn’t the biggest player but he plays a sandpaper type of game and will work physically to retain and capture the puck. While his skating isn’t the prettiest thing ever, it’s sufficient and contains enough speed to pair with his soft hands that are on display to beat defenders consistently. Defensively, I’d like to see Heidt get a little more active with his physicality in order to create more turnovers. While he does project as a center, he could become a winger in the future.
28. RW Alexander Rykov - Chelmet Chelyabinsk, VHL
Rykov is a player that deserves much more hype than he’s been getting. The lack of international tournaments for Russian players has affected the draft stock of some of the more promising players with Rykov being one of those. Watching Rykov reminded me of Vasili Podkolzin in his draft year due to his similar physical and compete attributes that power his game. Rykov also has an offensive flair to his game, headlined by his high end skating ability in combination with his soft hands. Rykov is defensively adept and creates turnovers in puck battles or using his IQ to cover passing lanes. Rykov sustained an injury and had limited time to prove his quality this year, but will certainly be picked far later than he should. An aspect of Rykov’s game that could use some improvement is his shot, sometimes missing the mark or less accurate than needed although this could be an anomaly from certain games watched.
29. RW Jayden Perron - Chicago Steel, USHL
‘Puma’ Perron lit up the USHL with next year’s top talent Macklin Celebrini and showcased his offensive skill while doing so. Offensively, Perron’s stand out ability is his elusiveness on the puck. He uses a set of soft hands and quick skating to create high dancer chances for himself and his teammates. Perron functions most often as a playmaker, setting up his teammates with accurate passes and great opportunities. Perron is no slouch on defense and uses stick lifts and occasional tenacity to create turnovers. As a diminutive winger Perron needs to put in some more muscle and strength in order to take his game to the next level.
30. C/RW Bradly Nadeau - Penticton Vees, BCHL
Nadeau is a dynamic scoring forward who has absolutely dominated the BCHL this year. He has a talented offensive toolbox showcased by a laser wrist shot that may be up there with some of the best in the draft class. Nadeau also uses a variety of playmaking moves and a smooth set of hands to create pockets of space to unleash his shot. The NCAA will be a large step up for Nadeau next year as he transitions to the University of Maine. While Nadeau plays as a center for Penticton, he may not necessarily stick there in the NHL as his game may be better suited for the wing. As most players at this age do, Nadeau requires some physical strength added to his game and maybe a bit more of defensive attention.
31. LW Daniil But - Loko Yaroslavl, KHL
But is a real unique prospect and not one that has too many comparables. A large winger who showcases real offensive skill through playmaking abilities and a stinging wrist shot. Bluntly, he looks quite weird on the puck with his calculated and soft puck control in combination with his awkward skating technique. While this skating will improve as time goes on and he settles into his newfound size, it needs to be fixed before success will come at the next level. But is the epiphany of a raw player who could be a power forward, sniper, playmaker… no one knows what the future holds for him but a top six winger is possible with the tools at his disposal.
32. C David Edstrom - Frolunda HC, SHL
Edstrom is a big and physical center who plays a smart game. Earning a call up to the SHL with Frolunda, Edstrom showed his production and smart game is translatable at a higher level. A solid skater for his size, Edstrom uses his size in front of the net or in puck battles to compete on both sides of the ice. A real finisher, Edstrom has a snappy wrist shot with accurate ability and can also create for teammates. While using his size to his advantage in his career, Edstrom’s skill doesn’t seem to scream top six forward here. His game makes me think that a middle six center role is likely here.
33. RD Maxim Strbak - Sioux Falls Stampede, USHL
Strbak operates as a defensive specialist who can transition well with the puck on his stick. A physically imposing player, Strbak cuts out attackers and does well to push them wide. Offensively, Strbak didn’t have much success in the USHL but really seemed to embrace an attacking presence at the World Juniors in not only the U18’s but the U20’s as well where he contributed three points in five games. While there were some errors and turnovers while trying to force the issue on rushes, Strbak showed there’s room to grow into a more offensively adept player.
34. RW Gavin Brindley - Michigan, NCAA
Brindley was the beneficiary of a monster season from Adam Fantili’s Michigan campaign, but bringing light to Brindley gave him the chance to show his game to the world. Brindley plays a hard-working game which is exactly what you need from an undersized player. At 5’9 and 157 lbs, Brindley plays above his size. While this is still not good enough for the NHL, he has the tenacity to compete in puck battles and added strength will help him. Defensively, Brindley excels and competes on forechecks, rushes and puck battles. Brindley showcases a limited offensive skillset, but contains decent puck skills and playmaking ability. A middle six spot is very possible here.
35. RD Lukas Dragicevic - Tri-Cty Americans, WHL
Dragicevic’s offensive skill requires attention regardless of your views on the rest of his game. In transition he excels with high end puck skills and vision. Acting as a real fourth forward at times, Dragicevic attacks opponents and creates high danger chances as he moves up the ice. It’s worth keeping in mind that Dragicevic has been a forward for his junior career and changed into a defenseman when he was 14 years old so the defensive mindset has to grow. While his skills are high, his game is held back heavily by his skating ability. He looks quite slow at times and struggles to get up to speed, somewhat like a freight train taking a while to pick up speed. These skating struggles cause problems on the defensive end as dynamic skaters or puckhandlers can create space with quick moves that Dragicevic can’t react fast enough to.
36. RW Koehn Ziemmer - Prince George Cougars, WHL
Ziemmer is a physical goal scorer, someone who will score two goals and then throw a crunching hit resulting in a penalty or a fight. A shoot first player who’s been able to incorporate improved playmaking by the end of the year, showing promise for a double edged weapon. Ziemmer’s puck skills are also worthy of praise, often looking dangerous in traffic and capable of beating multiple defenders before setting up a teammate or ripping it home; a true multi-faceted threat. Ziemmer’s biggest weakness lies in his sub-par skating which looks quite slow and clunky. He looks very hunched over on the puck and not natural, however this can hopefully be fixed in the future.
37. LD Mikhail Gulyayev - Omsky Yastreby, MHL
Gulyayev is a perplexing player to watch. Bursting with speed and high quality skating technique, Gulyayev flies across the ice and creates offense with his legs. Using his agility, he has soft hands that create space as he flies by opponents. Defensively, Gulyayev is reactive and quick to shut down attackers using his skating ability to keep pace. Now after reading the start of this description, you may be thinking he warrants a lottery selection, however Gulyayev lacks hockey IQ. He will often make plays that leave me scratching my head and wondering why he chose to fire a shot with a teammate wide open. Physically, Gulyayev is underdeveloped and struggled in his limited KHL minutes to keep pace with bigger players in physical battles. Gulyayev has offensive potential in spades but may struggle to reach it if his brain can’t keep up with his skill.
38. LW Lenni Hameenaho - Assat, Liiga
Hameenaho produced more points in the Liiga this year than Juraj Slavkofsky did in his draft year, selected as the first overall pick. Hameenaho has been labeled as vanilla or bland, but his game is really not that. As a 17 year old playing in the Finnish top division, Hameenaho plays a smart and safe game, using his hockey IQ and offensive tools to help guide his play. Offensively he contributes well and will often find pockets of space to receive the puck and create offense. Skating wise, Hameenaho struggles with a real nasty looking form which has him looking quite slow on the ice. With some development in the upcoming years, Hameenaho projects as a middle six winger that uses his brain to provide solid offensive chances.
39. LD Caden Price - Kelowna Rockets, WHL
Price is a two way defenseman with flashes of brilliance in his game. Although inconsistent, Price can provide shutdown defense with an active stick and a wicked physical presence. With high level gap control and smarts, Price is active on rushes and able to shut down forwards when he’s turned on. His offensive game relies heavily on his breakout skill which is highlighted by his beautiful breakout passes, laced with high vision and pinpoint accuracy. As alluded to earlier, consistency is a huge issue here and I’ve watched a game or two where Price makes mistakes on both ends, looking like a player who’s sometimes overwhelmed.
40. C/RW Gracyn Sawchyn - Seattle Thunderbirds, WHL
Sawchyn is a deceptive player who’s shown high end offensive potential in the WHL with the Thunderbirds this year. His puck skills are very high and he creates chances on a regular basis with his creative style of play. Sawchyn is a real hustler and someone who projects down the center of his ice due to a solid two-way style of play. Defensively diligent and willing to get down and dirty. If Sawchyn pans out, he’s a second line center, but this is not a certainty. With limited opportunity this year, his production was not worthy of a first round grade from me.
41. C/LW Felix Nilsson - Rogle BK, SHL
Nilsson is a smart forward who brings a consistent offensive game to the table. A smart passer, Nilsson picks out teammates in space and provides constant offensive pressure with his high hockey IQ. An injury ended his season early and he didn’t get to perform with Sweden at any international tournaments, submerging his draft stock but the scouts who got to watch him know the quality he brings. Real middle six center upside.
42. C/RW Timur Mukhanov - Omskie Krylia, VHL
Mukhanov is one of those players you look at and just wonder if they had a few more inches of size what they would be like. At a smaller 5’8, Mukhanov is a hard working two way winger who flies up and down the ice. Agility and speed are two of his greatest weapons, using them on both sides of the ice to his advantage. Mukhanov has been extremely unlucky this season, often finding himself in great positions to score but not able to bury the puck. This can also be attributed to his weaker finishing skills that need improvement in order to ascend the pro ranks. His full season in the VHL should have given him a great taste of what he needs to improve to succeed.
43. RW/LW Nick Lardis - Hamilton Bulldogs, OHL
Lardis merits a high selection purely based on his offensive potential as a goal scorer. After his OHL trade halfway through the season, he flourished with the Hamilton Bulldogs, firing goals at nearly a goal per game pace. If he played the whole season with the team, you could be looking at a player viewed in a higher regard. His shot is electric and he uses his agility and quick edges to set up for a variety of hard and accurate shots that he often beats goalies with. He’s a real shoot first player that needs to adapt his game to make room for playmaking skills that can help his teammates flourish as well. Defensively, Lardis lacks engagement at times, but on his day can disrupt passing lanes and forecheck well.
44. RD Beau Akey - Barrie Colts, OHL
Beau Akey is a promising two way defender. His best attribute has to be his skating ability which he uses on both ends of the ice. Defensively, he can cut out plays displaying great gap control and footwork in order to match forwards on the charge. Offensively, Akey has the skating ability to be a contributor at the next level. If he can develop his offensive skill with some more deception to match his skates, he will be a real top four defender.
45. RW/C Ethan Gauthier - Sherbrooke Phoenix, QMJHL
Gauthier serves as a playmaking winger that delivers a high end offensive threat through his hockey IQ and hands. Always looking for holes in the defense, Gauthier can attack defenders with success and dish off the puck to teammates in space for a good chance. Gauthier has enjoyed throwing around his body in some of the viewings I’ve had, sometimes even dispossessing the puck carrier and gaining the puck for his team.
46. C/LW Oscar Fisker Mølgaard - HV71, SHL
Fisker Molgaard is a player who’s grown in my good books a lot near the end of the season. Initially, I didn’t see much of a projectable NHL player with some average skills and nothing flashy, but his consistency on both ends showed a responsible center with a strong 200 foot game. Fisker Molgaard uses an agile skating game to cover lots of ground on the ice as well as breakout with the puck. Quick puck handles and passing skill that gets the job done, Fisker Molgaard projects as a middle six center and one that can fulfill this role quite easily. When you get to the middle of the second round, you’re happy to select a player like Oscar who is likely to put on a jersey for your organization.
47.RD Oliver Bonk - London Knights, OHL
Bonk has shown a real defensive prowess this year with London, munching minutes and shutting down attackers time after time. Despite a 6 '1 stature (which is nothing to sneeze at), Bonk plays bigger than his size and imposes himself physically on opponents. Offensively, Bonk is not the best at unlocking defenses or picking out the right pass, however he showed a few glimpses of potential. With limited offensive potential, Bonk is still likely to make the NHL with his defensive knowledge. An improved skating form will help Bonk grow his game on the offensive end as he sometimes seems to struggle with the puck on his stick.
48.LD Theo Lindstein - Brynas IF, SHL
Lindstein is a real safe defenseman who executes defensively at a real high level. Offensively, Lindstein doesn’t provide too much to his team’s attack and will usually play short and safe passes to get the puck up the ice. With a solid skating ability, I’d like to see Lindstein take more risks and transition the puck on his stick. Lindstein provides value as a potential #4/5D who can crunch minutes and lock down defenders. Limited offensive upside.
49. RW Kasper Halttunen - HIFK, Liiga
Halttunen is a prototypical power forward with a wicked wrist shot. Rarely has someone performed so well in juniors but done so poorly in pros in a draft year in my memory. Halttunen uses his large 210 lb frame to his advantage, shielding the puck and throwing his body around. He can unleash his shot with tons of power as well as a heater one timer. As a shoot first player, Halttunen often forecasted his shot and didn't pass as much as he needed to, sometimes putting aside good opportunities for teammates in order to shoot himself.
50. LW/C Anton Wahlberg - Malmo, J20 Nationell
Wahlberg is a power forward who uses his speed and hands to create chances for his team, often resulting in scoring chances. Wahlberg is physically imposing and wins the puck often in battles, creating turnovers with his size. Wahlberg has played as a center and as a winger but I think his game projects better on the wing. I’d like to see Wahlberg think a little more critically on the puck as he sometimes tries to do too much.
51. RD Hunter Brzustewicz - Kitchener Rangers, OHL
Brzustewicz is a puck-moving defenseman who’s shown the ability to provide offense using his puck skills and passing ability. Brue loves to have the puck on his stick and initiate offense for his team, often showcasing his transition skills. Defensively, Brue can shut down plays but sometimes suffers from a lack of four way mobility. Sometimes pressure will confuse or hamper his ability to transition the puck, although he will sometimes fend it off.
52. RD Andrew Gibson - Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds, OHL
Gibson is a player with a frame and defensive toolbox that NHL scouts adore. At 6’3 and 200 lbs, Gibson shuts down defenders with his reach advantage and showcases solid gap control to deny rushes. Gibson needs some work on his skating to improve his clunky stride although this is expected for any large skater. Skating improvement will help his offensive game grow which has shown some potential.
53. LD Luca Cagnoni - Portland Winterhawks, WHL
Cagnoni is an elusive offensive defenseman who’s shown some defensive prowess over the course of the season. Cagnoni’s skating shows great edges and speed, leaving opponents in the dust at times with good acceleration. Cagnoni’s skating helps him defensively and his gap control has improved greatly. Physically, Cagnoni is a smaller 5’9 defenseman which will cause him problems at the next level. In physical battles, Cagnoni puts in a great effort but will be outmuscled at times. Cagnoni carries a top four projection with a sizable offensive output if all pans out.
54. LW/C Easton Cowan - London Knights, OHL
I’m a big fan of players that consistently display a high level of compete and don't give up on the ice. Easton Cowan is no exception and he works hard out there. A real intelligent player, Cowan processes the game well and uses it to his advantage as a playmaking winger. Forming a formidable duo with teammate Denver Barkey, they both showed their potential to be solid players at the next level.
55. RD Matthew Mania - Sudbury Wolves, OHL
Matthew Mania might have one of the highest offensive potentials in a defenseman in this class. His breakout game is his biggest strength and he carries the puck without fear up the ice. While this causes giveaways, it also causes offense in abundance. He finds teammates with passes and handles the puck with great skill. Mania’s defensive game needs some work and specifically his decision making on the rush. Sometimes he’s been made to look silly when falling for a deke or move, needing to work on his gap control and patience. Defensive flaws aside, Mania is a solid gamble for his offensive proficiency.
56. C/RW Carson Rehkopf - Kitchener Rangers, OHL
Rehkopf is a sniper which is somewhat evident from his thirty goals, scoring more than his twenty-nine assists. Rehkopf plays a shoot-first game but has shown good levels of passing as well, dishing off to teammates on occasion. His offensive skills show promise for a potential top six forward if everything goes perfectly well. Despite some consistency problems, Rehkopf could use some improvement in the skating department to help him fulfill his potential.
57. C/LW Carey Terrance - Erie Otters, OHL
On one of the worst teams in the OHL, Terrance scored thirty goals…this is an incredible feat and didn’t give him much time or puck possession in order to make things happen. Terrance seems to echo the sentiment that he doesn’t have much help however as he tries to often do a lot of the work on his own. He will try to over-handle the puck and turn it over, but he shows his skill so it’s hard to scout a player like this. Regardless, Terrance plays an energized defensive game and works hard on both ends of the ice. He’s a projectable middle six forward at this point.
58. LW/C Noah Dower-Nilsson - Frolunda HC, J20 Nationell
Dower-Nilsson put up a whole lot of points in the J20 league this year due to his offensive skills. NDH is a real triple threat, showcasing soft hands, a quick wrist shot and great passing vision. NDH has been playing as a center, but certainly projects as a winger and his game is well suited for the wing. While this seems promising, NDH is not a solid defender and this helps his projection on the wing. Also a real inconsistent player. Top six upside is there though.
59. C Charlie Stramel - Wisconsin, NCAA
Stramel is a big boy at 6’3 and nearly 220lbs. He plays a tenacious game and has shown some offensive promise with good passing skill, but he’s had a real disappointing NCAA season in comparison to expectations. Obviously a draft year talent isn’t expected to dominate the NCAA, but some expected a higher production level. With the offensive potential looking limited, Stramel projects as a third line center who can develop his offensive game to make it there.
60. C/LW Danny Nelson - U18’s, USNTDP
Nelson is a physical presence and a big body down the middle of the ice. He uses a high motor game to hound the opposition on the puck and create turnovers. Offensively, Nelson acts as a playmaker and has shown a level of creativity that impressed me. While his offensive consistency needs some work and his passes can be misplaced or show more accuracy, he shows a good vision. A solid all around player, won’t have skill that will find him in the top half of a lineup but shows promise to be a third line center.
61. LW Kalan Lind - Red Deer Rebels, WHL
Kalan Lind is a physical pest on the ice. He throws out huge hits and battles so hard for every puck. His defensive game is a real enticing piece to any team looking for a bottom six player with some skill. While Lind isn’t the biggest player, putting some muscle on could work wonders for his physical game seeing he plays way bigger than he is. Offensively, Lind is a playmaker who’s shown some good levels of offensive skill in flashes.
62. LD Arttu Karki - Tappara, U20 SM-Sarja
Karki is a really skill-filled defenseman with a great 6 '2 NHL frame. He shows good offensive skills and loves to transition the puck on his stick. Inside the blue line, Karki excels shooting the puck and has a powerful shot with some good accuracy. Karki didn’t earn a promotion to Tappara’s senior team due to an excess of competent defenders on the team, however an explanation could lie in Karki’s hands off defensive style. He isn’t always engaged on the defensive side of the game and has some real gap control issues. Despite his offensive flair, he often turns the puck over trying to do too much. THese issues need to be cleaned up or he won’t see the light of day on a pro NA team. The potential is high here though.
63. C Coulson Pitre - Flint Firebirds, OHL
Pitre is a two way center with a high compete level. He uses his size to his advantage and loves to fight in puck battles to retrieve the puck. As an attacker, Pitre is competent in all areas but doesn’t show a real high level skill. As a skater, Pitre can improve his skating technique to help spur on his high compete level. Pitre is a player that’s projectable as a third line center and one that coaches will love to send out and battle hard for the team.
64. C/RW William Whitelaw - Youngstown Phantoms. USHL
Whitelaw has offensive skills in abundance. His shot is his best ability, scoring with power, accuracy, and variety. He uses his high level puck handling to manipulate the puck around defenders and create space for his shot. As a passer, Whitelaw will often hold onto the puck too long and try to do it all himself at times. This is something that has to change. Physically, Whitelaw gets dirty and fights for pucks but his 5’9 stature will be a barrier at the next level.
65. C Denver Barkey - London Knights, OHL
66. LW Hannes Hellberg - Leksands, J20 Nationell
67. RW Ryan Conmy - Sioux City Musketeers, USHL
68. LW/RW Alex Ciernik - Sodertalje SK, Allsvenskan
69. C Luca Pinelli - Ottawa 76’s, OHL
70. RW Roman Kantserov - Stalnye Lisy Magnitogorsk, MHL
71. LW Yegor Klimovich - Sibirskie Snaipery Novosibirsk, MHL
72. C/RW Andrei Loshko - Chicoutimi Sagueneens, QMJHL
73. LW Juraj Pekarcik - HK Nitra, Slovakia
74. RW Mathieu Cataford - Halifax Mooseheads, QMJHL
75. LW Aydar Suniev - Penticton Vees, BCHL
76. LW Gavyn Thoreson - Waterloo Black Hawks, USHL
77. LD Andrew Strathmann - Youngstown Phantoms. USHL
78. C Connor Levis - Kamloops Blazers, WHL
79. RD Aram Minnetian - U18’s, USNTDP
80. LW Emil Jarventie - KOOVEE, Mestis
81. RW Jayson Shaugabay - Warroad High, USHS
82. RW Felix Unger Sorum - Leksands IF, J20 Nationell
83. LD Tristan Bertucci - Flint Firebirds, OHL
84. RW Jesse Kiiskinen - Pelicans, U20 SM-Sarja
85. LD Arvid Bergstrom - Djurgardens IF, J20 Nationell
86. RW Matthew Soto - Kingston Frontenacs, OHL
87. LD Quinton Burns - Kingston Frontenacs, OHL
88. C/LW Tyler Peddle - Drummondville Voltigeurs, QMJHL
89. RW Zachary Nehring - Shattuck St. Mary’s, USHS
90. LD Justin Kipkie - Victoria Royals, WHL
91. RW Aiden Fink - Brooks Bandits, AJHL
92. LW/RW Nico Myatovic - Seattle Thunderbirds, WHL
93. RD Carter Sotheran - Portland Winterhawks. WHL
94. RW Nikita Susuyev - Spartak Moscow, MHL
95. LD Michael Hagens - Chicago Steel, USHL
96. RW Will Vote - U18’s, USNTDP
97. LW Jesse Nurmi - KooKoo, U20 SM-Sarja
98. LD Larry Keenan - Culver Military Academy, USHS
99. C Zeb Forsfjall - Skelleftea, SHL
100. LD Paul Fischer - U18’s, USNTDP
101. RW Cam Squires - Cape Breton Eagles, QMJHL
102. C Rasmus Kumpulainen - Pelicans, U20 SM-Sarja
103. LD Jakub Dvorak - Bílí Tygři Liberec, Extraliga
104. C Jaden Lipinski - Vancouver Giants, WHL
105. C Tanner Ludtke - Lincoln Stars, USHL
106. RD Cameron Allen - Guelph Storm, OHL
107. RD Dylan MacKinnon - Halifax Mooseheads, QMJHL
108. C Martin Misiak - Youngstown Phantoms, USHL
109. RD Mazden Leslie - Vancouver Giants, WHL
110. C Kalle Carlsson - Orebro, J20 Nationell
111. LW Cole Burbridge - Saint John Sea Dogs, QMJHL
112. RW Tuomas Uronen - HIFK - U20 SM-Sarja
113. LW Ethan Miedema - Kingston Frontenacs, OHL
114. LD Albert Wikman - Färjestad BK, SHL
115. RW/C Tanner Adams - Tri-City Storm, USHL
116. RD Gavin McCarthy - Muskegon Lumberjacks, USHL
117. C Joseph Willis - Saginaw Spirit, OHL
118. RW/LW Griffin Erdman - Waterloo Black Hawks, USHL
119. LD Sawyer Mynio - Seattle Thunderbirds, WHL
120. C Ivan Anoshko - Dinamo-Shinnik Bobruysk, MHL
121. RD Axel Landen - HV71, J20 Nationell
122. C/LW Frantisek Dej - Modre Kridla Slovan, Slovakia
123. C Mikhail Ye. Ilyin - Severstal Cherepovets, KHL
124. LD Drew Fortescue - U18’s, USNTDP
125. RW Noel Nordh - Brynas IF, J20 Nationell
126. LW Yegor Rimashevsky - Dynamo Moscow, MHL
127. C Ryan Fine - U18’s, USNTDP
128. RD Kalem Parker - Victoria Royals, WHL
129. LW Beckett Hendrickson - U18’s, USNTDP
130. C Jakub Stancl - Vaxjo Lakers HC, J20 Nationell
131. RD Hoyt Stanley - Victoria Grizzlies, BCHL
132. LD Rodwin Dionicio - Windsor Spitfires, OHL
133. C/LW Isac Hedqvist - Lulea, J20 Nationell
134. LW Egor Sidorov - Saskatoon Blades, WHL
135. LD Zach Schulz - U18’s, USNTDP
136. RW Alex Pharand - Sudbury Wolves, OHL
137. RD Jordan Tourigny - Shawinigan Cataractes, QMJHL
138. LW/C Tommasso De Luca - Spokane Chiefs, WHL
139. RD Vojtech Port - Edmonton Oil Kings, WHL
140. LD Daniil Karpovich - Avto Yekaterinburg, MHL
141. LD Magomed Sharakanov - Dynamo Moskva, MHL
142. LD Brady Cleveland - U18’s, USNTDP
143. C Brad Gardiner - Ottawa 76’s, OHL
144. LW Hunter Anderson - Shattuck St. Mary’s, USHS
145. C Jonathan Castagna - St. Andrews, CAHS
146.LW Ondrej Molnar - Erie Otters, OHL
147. LW/C Julius Sumpf - RB Juniors, AlpsHL
148. LD Ben Robertson - Waterloo Black Hawks, USHL
149. RD Matteo Mann - Chicoutimi Sagueneens, QMJHL
150. RW Andrew Kuzma - Madison Capitols, USHL
151. LD Peteris Bulans - Chicoutimi Sagueneens, QMJHL
152. C Dominik Petr - Lukko, U20 SM-Sarja
153. RW Austin Roest - Everett Silvertips, WHL
154. LD Emil Pieniemi - Karpat, U20 SM-Sarja
155. LD Luke Coughlin - Rimouski Oceanic, QMJHL
156. RD Vojtech Port - Edmonton Oil Kings, WHL
157. LW Ty Henricks - Muskegon Lumberjacks, USHL
158. C Joe Connor - Avon Old Farms, USHS
159. RW Adam Cedzo - Ocelari Trinec, Czech U20
160. RW Vadim Moroz - Dynamo Minsk, KHL
161.LD Matteo Koci - Energie Karlovy Vary, Czech
162. RD Kaden Hammell - Everett Silvertips, WHL
163. RW Cole Brown - Hamilton Bulldogs, OHL
164. C Jimmy Clark - Green Bay Gamblers, USHL
165. RD Yaroslav Tsulygin - Salavat Yulaev Ufa, KHL
166. C Cole Knuble - Fargo Force, USHL
167. C Ethan Hay - Flint Firebirds, OHL
168. LD Jeremy Hanzel - Seattle Thunderbirds, WHL
169. LD Anton Maryshev - Spartak Moscow, MHL
170. C Jake Fisher - Fargo Force, USHL
171. LD Luke Mittelstadt - Univ. of Minnesota, NCAA
172. LD Hugo Hell - Färjestad, U20 Nationell
173. RW Jan Sprynar - Rimouski Oceanic, QMJHL
174. C Oliver Tulk - Calgary Hitmen, WHL
175. RD Chase Cheslock - Omaha Lancers, USHL
176. RW/C Hugo Lejon - Vasteras IK, J20 Nationell
177. LD Saige Weinstein - Spokane Chiefs, WHL
178. C Isac Born - Frolunda HC, SHL
179. LW Roman Kukumberg - HC Slovan Bratislava, Slovakia
180. RD Gennadi Chaly - Waterloo Black Hawks, USHL
181. C Ty Halaburda - Vancouver Giants, WHL
182. LD Lucas St. Louis - Dubuque Fighting Saints, USHL
183. C Samuel Fiala - Bílí Tygři Liberec, Czech U20
184. C Tom Leppä - Jokerit, U20 SM-Sarja
185. RW Stanislav Yarovoy - Vityaz, KHL
186. LW Emil Kuusla - Jokerit, U20 SM-Sarja
187. RD Donovan McCoy - Peterborough Petes, OHL
188. LD Mario Patalakha - Dynamo Moskow, MHL
189. LW Hugo Pettersson - HV71, J20 Nationell
190. RW Ignat Lutfullin - SKA-Varyagi Morozova, MHL
191. C/LW Petter Vesterheim - Mora IK, Allsvenskan
192. LW Mikey DeAngelo - Green Bay Gamblers, USHL
193.RD Ty Hanson - Sioux City Musketeers, USHL
194. C Angus MacDonell - Mississauga Steelheads, OHL
195. LD Terrell Goldsmith - Prince Albert Raiders, WHL
196. LD Matthew Mayich - Ottawa 76’s, OHL
197. RD Ty Higgins - Acadie-Bathurst Titan, QMJHL
198. RD Marek Rocak - Kelowna Rockets, WHL
199. LW Mael Lavigne - Victoriaville Tigres, QMJHL
200. LD Hudson Thornton - Prince George Cougars, WHL
201. RD Konstantin Volochko - Dinamo-Shinnik Bobruysk, MHL
202. RW/LW Melvin Wersall - Djurgardens IF, J20 Nationell
203. RW Calem Mangone - Saginaw Spirit, OHL
204. C Nikita Nedopyokin - SKA St. Petersburg, MHL
205. C Alex Weiermair - U18’s, USNTDP
206. LD Tyler Duke - Ohio State Univ., NCAA
207. LD Noah Chadwick - Lethbridge Hurricanes, WHL
208. C Cooper Foster - Ottawa 76’s, OHL
209. RD Bogdan Konyushkov - Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod, KHL
210. RW Ty Daneault - Drumheller Dragons, AJHL
211. RW Radel Zamaltdinov - Bars Kazan, VHL
212. RW Anthony Romani - North Bay Battalion, OHL
213. LW Charlie Cerrato - U18’s, USNTDP
214. C Luke McNamara - Saginaw Spirit, OHL
215. RW/C Oliver Peer - Windsor Spitfires, OHL
216. RW Elliot Stahlberg - Farjestad, J20 Nationell
217. LW Logan Wormald - Lethbridge Hurricanes, WHL
218. C Benjamin Poitras - Sioux City Musketeers, USHL
219. RW Jackson Nevers - Edina High, USHS
220. RD Maxim Fedotov - Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod, KHL
221. RW Deagen McMillan - Tri-City Americans, WHL
222. C Brandon Svoboda - Youngstown Phantoms, USHL
223. C Joseph Henneberry - Acadie-Bathurst Titan, QMJHL
224. LD Francesco Dell’Elce - St. Andrews, CAHS
225. LD Alexis Daviault - Erie Otters, OHL
Sleepers
LW Hannes Hellberg - Leksands, J20 Nationell (Ranked #66) - My favourite overager who was 13 days from being a first year entry. Lit up the J20 this year and buried tons of goals. Hidden in the J18 last year and only got promoted to the J20 this year for the first time. Rocket wrist shot with a quick release and a real goal scorer. Bigger body and plays physically in board battles. Really underrated player who should get some SHL time next year. This is a player I'm very high on.
C/RW Andrei Loshko - Chicoutimi Sagueneens, QMJHL (Ranked #72) - A Skillful Belarussian winger that has developed a high level of chemistry with top prospect Maxim Masse. While he gathered some steam heading into playoffs, he was held to one point and dropped down many boards. Loshko is a two way center who put up 70 points in the QMJHL this year, so why is he held in such low regard? The biggest flaw of Loshko's game falls in his puckhandling skills which are subpar. This is a skill that can certainly be developed with time however. I'll bank on his smart game and passing skill to pan out as a third line center in the NHL.
LD Arvid Bergstrom - Djurgardens IF, J20 Nationell (Ranked #85) - Bergstrom is a player with dynamic skating that plays a solid two way game. Underrated by almost all scouting services, Bergstrom has some real NHL upside and one that could result in a middle pairing defenseman if all pays off. Bergstrom loves to jump into the attack with his skating ability and uses his speed to his advantage. He needs some defensive work in order to tidy up some mistakes and deficiencies like gap control and decision making on defense.
LD Larry Keenan - Culver Military Academy, USHS (Ranked #97) - Keenan is a physical defender with a large frame that shows promise as a breakout defender with the puck on his stick. His skating is still a work in progress, but Keenan will be joining the University of Massachusetts next year with a solid development team where he can work on his pro game and develop these skills. He loves jumping into the rush and creating offense.
LW/C Julius Sumpf - RB Juniors, AlpsHL (Ranked #147) - Sumpf is a winger not given much love this year despite his solid production in the Alps pro hockey league in Austria with RB. Sumpf showed flashes of high skill in the U18's, leading Germany in points. Sumpf has good puck handling ability and an accurate wrist shot which he likes to use often cutting towards the net.
Hi all, here's my draft rankings for the upcoming draft along with my analysis for the first two rounds of prospects. I'll first just do some housekeeping and mention a few FAQ's. I don't rank goalies, I'll leave that to the goalie experts. While I haven't seen full footage of every player on the list, I've at least watched highlights or clips for everyone listed. There's always players that fall through the cracks but please fire away if you have any questions, I'm happy to answer or share my thought process.
Previous Rankings
2022 Final Rankings: Tryamkin's Final 2022 Draft Rankings Guide
2021 Final Rankings: Tryamkin's Final 2021 Draft Rankings Guide
2020 Final Rankings: Tryamkin's Final 2020 Draft Rankings Guide
2019 Final Rankings: Tryamkin's Final 2019 Draft Rankings Guide
2018 Final Rankings: Tryamkin’s Final 2018 Draft Rankings Guide
2017 Final Rankings: Tryamkin's Final 2017 Draft Rankings Guide
2023 Rankings
1. C Connor Bedard - Regina Pats, WHL
A generational talent doesn’t come around too often but Bedard is certainly that. An offensive dynamo with a mouthwatering skillset headlined by one of the best shots ever seen at a junior level. Soft hands and great transitional skill leads to dangerous offense where he consistently chooses the best option. An above average skater with solid physical tools for his height. Skill and brains exempt any worry that his size may create.
2. RW Matvei Michkov - HK Sochi, KHL
Oozing with top end skill, Michkov is firmly the second best prospect of this class. A real talented puck handler who is ultra slippery on the puck and is always searching for ways to infiltrate the defense and finish the puck. Uses his puck manipulation to create for teammates as well with a solid vision and IQ pairing. His play against men with Sochi has proven that despite his smaller size (150-160 lbs depending on who you ask) he can hang against fully grown men. Despite the politics at the moment, Michkov is the second best talent in the draft and even if you have to wait four years to see him in North America, he is the real deal.
3. C Adam Fantilli - Univ. of Michigan, NCAA
Fantilli is so easy to project as a top line center in the NHL for a multitude of reasons. His size and skill combo is really next level. While he doesn’t have the shooting of Bedard, it’s certainly no slouch either. Loads of power and deadly accuracy. I’m a real fan of his attentiveness and effort in the defensive zone. He really gives an effort and creates turnovers on both sides of the ice, using his size well which will translate well to the NHL.
4. C/LW Leo Carlsson - Orebro HK, SHL
Carlsson lands at number four on my list, but he could easily be number three here. I’m projecting both Fantilli and Carlsson to be similarly effective at the NHL, however Fantilli wins the tiebreaker by not casting a shadow of a doubt about his position in the NHL. Carlsson is a big bodied forward who has played on the wing and at center in the SHL, producing at a real encouraging rate for Orebro. While the term ‘Jack of All Trades’ has been used in the hockey world to describe a more vanilla prospect, Carlsson can be described as such. He really excels at most every skill desirable for a top forward in the NHL.
5. RW/C Matthew Wood - Connecticut, NCAA
Wood is a player I’m extremely high on for this upcoming draft. While he finds himself near the middle of the first round in most rankings, he sits firmly in my top five. Wood often gets shuffled down rankings due to his sloppy skating, however a massive growth spurt adding six or seven inches of height in a short period of time is bound to make things incredibly more difficult to coordinate. After finding his footing this season, his skating and wrist shot looked drastically improved by the end of Connecticut’s season. Another winger than count be molded into a center, Wood has legitimate top line potential and possesses the talent to surprise teams in a few years when he really starts putting things together.
6. LW Zach Benson - Winnipeg Ice, WHL
Zach Benson is an ultra talented player. The first thing that stands out about him is his smarts on the puck. His brain processes the game at a super high level and he’s able to manipulate the flow of offense to create for his teammates. Despite his diminutive size, Benson should be able to find success at the next level due to a number of his strengths like his skating and adept transitional play.
7. RW/C Ryan Leonard - U18’s, USNTDP
Leonard is a power winger with skill that is ultra projectable in the NHL. With the success of the Tkachuks in the last few years, it’s a fact that hard-nosed players that play with some grit and have high end skill are super valuable. While Leonard may not have the potential of someone like Matthew Tkachuk, his odds of being a high end player and even ending up on a top line at the NHL are quite likely due to these skills. His offensive toolbox is quite impressive, sporting some dynamic puck-handling and playmaking skills to pair with his lethal shot. By my description you would expect I’d be talking about a top five player in the class, however this class is loaded and Leonard lacks an elite potential that would see him in that top five.
8. C Will Smith - U18’s, USNTDP
A playmaking center through and through, Smith’s bread and butter is with the puck on his stick. He uses his soft hands and a great offensive mind to coordinate success in the final third. A pure offensive forward, his success in the NHL relies upon his ability to adapt his physicality and defense to a reliable level. While he’s not a horrible defender, I’m not in the camp that Smith is a solid defender and believe he has some room to grow. I think fundamentally Smith contributes on the defensive end but he doesn’t seem to ever really go out of his way to get his hands dirty. Smith has a bright future and warrants a high spot on any ranking due to his offensive ceiling and the way he opens up defenses with his puck handling ability and hockey IQ.
9. RD David Reinbacher - SC Kloten, Swiss
Reinbacher serves as the new age defenseman. A solid shutdown defender with above average skating and puck carrying skills. Reinbacher excels in transition and has drawn comparisons to Moritz Seider for a reason. Defensively, Reinbacher is a fantastic one on one defender and uses an active stick and his large frame to seal off forwards handily. While Reinbacher can sometimes get fooled by deceptive plays or offensive rotations, this is something that professional development can surely help. While Reinbacher will never be Cale Makar with the puck on his stick turning into a fourth forward or putting up a ton of points, he surely has a future as a top four defenseman at absolute minimum which is something that warrants a top ten selection with the RHD cherry on top.
10. LD Etienne Morin - Moncton Wildcats, QMJHL
Morin slots in as my last player in the top ten and this feels like a solid spot for him. Despite being a 2nd/3rd round prospect as consensus, Morin is extremely underrated. Knocked for his lack of skating prowess and technique, Morin still displays dynamic moves on the puck and carries the puck with extreme confidence. Offensively, Morin joins the rush and can pick out passes at high speeds but his biggest attribute on the attack lies in his shot. He can generate great power and accuracy from all varieties of shots and puts plenty of goals on the board. Defensively, Morin needs some work on his gap control in order to properly shut down rushes and attacks but displays great physicality and has grown defensively over the course of the year. Reminiscent of Thomas Chabot and even Evan Bouchard, Morin has the archetype of a leader and minute muncher who can grow into an ultra-reliable player with some fine tuning.
11. C Oliver Moore - U’18’s, USNTDP
Moore is a dynamic center who showcases Dylan Larkin-esque skating ability. Pairing with this skating ability is a workhorse motor that doesn’t quit. It feels weird to mention skating as a defining feature of one’s game, but it would be remiss to not start off with it for Moore. Despite this skating excellency, Moore needs to work on his consistency offensively. He will create a game-changing play one shift and then go radio silent in future opportunities. We know the skating and drive will be there, but can he put together his offensive talent in a way that will make him worthy of a lottery selection? We’ll have to see.
12. LW Gabe Perreault - U18’s, USNTDP
Perreault is one of the smartest prospects in the class this year, just a real hockey brain that plays a real triple threat offensive game. Hands, shot, playmaking in a real trio of high level abilities. He seems to be forgotten about due to the other three USNTDP prospects and their more projectable NHL games and the question posed most often is “Why is Perreault so low on rankings despite his team leading production?” My answer lies in his skating ability. It doesn’t necessarily look too awful, but he doesn’t generate much power or speed and he often has that ‘quicksand’ look at times. We’ve seen this issue be fixable before through power skating coaches and professional help. Long story short, Perreault is too smart and too skilled to be passed over. Bank on him to become a top six winger.
13. C Dalibor Dvorsky - AIK, Allsvenskan
Dvorsky isn’t someone who will bring the house down with highlight reel flashy skills or plays, but he plays an intelligent and solid two way game. Physically adept, Dvorsky weighs in above 200 lbs already as a 17 year old playing in a men’s league and is not a pushover by any extent. A lethal wrist shot is Dvorsky’s biggest offensive threat, usually summoned after a power move or calculated offensive opportunity. Defensively solid, Dvorsky will be a great addition in the NHL to play at a middle six level at least, giving high effort on both ends of the ice. Despite this success in a great league, Dvorsky only shows moments of high skill and lacks the consistency that indicates that he would be able to grow into a premier player in the NHL.
14. LD Dmitri Simashev - Loko Yaroslavl, MHL
Simashev projects as a player that REQUIRES a lottery selection. A 6’4, smooth skating, physically imposing lock down defender is an eye turning proposition which will make an NHL team very happy. While the production is the one thing holding him back from being one of the first names off the board, that can still be developed. Simashev plays a calm game and doesn’t take risks which is not something you see often from a 17 year old playing in one of the best men’s leagues in the world. Simashev can be a real minute cruncher for an NHL team and someone who can be relied upon heavily.
15. LW Quentin Musty - Sudbury Wolves, OHL
Musty has struggled at times to find a groove in his draft year with the Sudbury Wolves, but he really started to settle in by the end of the year. A real power winger, Musty excels offensively. He’s fantastic at carrying the puck and attacking holes with passes or power moves. He’s great at board play, puck battles and net camping so he really makes his presence felt on the ice. Musty showcases soft hands and can really maneuver the puck in traffic. A real elite wrist shot but he really prefers to attack the net as opposed to shooting from distance which could create problems in the NHL. Defensively, Musty has shown some promise but clearly favors his efforts in the offensive zone.
16. LW Colby Barlow - Owen Sound Attack, OHL
Barlow is a scoring winger through and through. A real shoot first forward who is a danger to score whenever his puck is on the stick in the offensive zone. Barlow is a player that’s ultra projectable as a top six winger due to his shot and compete level. Another large personality trait that works in favor of Barlow is his leadership. Not many draft year prospects earn the captaincy so early in their junior careers, but Barlow leads by example on and off the ice. Barlow’s skating leaves a little room for improvement, specifically in his edges and agility in order to help create more separation at a higher level of play.
17. C Brayden Yager - Moose Jaw Warriors, WHL
As someone who burst onto the WHL scene with a level of hype that almost commended exceptional status, Yager has not developed in the fashion many had hoped. A stagnant draft year with not much improvement has seen him fall in some eyes, but his game still has a solid foundation. A lethal shooter, Yager has some wicked power and accuracy in his shot. He plays a shoot first game with a solid motor and cleans up well defensively. While he has the potential to be a great 200 foot NHLer, this season has left scouts wondering if his game will develop after seeing the same Yager as last season. I’d bank on Yager adding extra layers to his game and becoming a solid center.
18. C Calum Ritchie - Oshawa Generals OHL
Ritchie is someone who has really grown on me over the course of this season. Production wise, Ritchie hasn’t performed up to the expectation of a top twenty pick in the draft, however the eye test does him wonders. Ritchie is a real game winner because he does all the little things you want in a center. Possession control, puck battles, 200 foot game, size exploitation, etc. Offensively, Ritchie exhibits playmaking skill and finds pockets of space for his teammates, usually creating chances with a range of passing and stick-handling. Skating wise, Ritchie needs some work in order to succeed in the pro game. His speed and form is quite lackluster with some room for improvement there. I’d like to see Ritchie take some more risks in his game which could lead to that offensive production taking another leap.
19. LW/C Otto Stenberg - Frolunda HC, J20 Nationell
Stenberg is a player I’ve taken a real liking to this year for a multitude of reasons. Firstly, he has a dangerous offensive presence headlined by a shifty puck-handling repertoire. He will often create high danger plays and finish with an accurate wrister. Naturally, his playmaking is also sound and he uses his puck-handling to create options for teammates as well. Stenberg projects to be a winger at the NHL level and this is a reason why he isn’t a handful of places higher. Top six potential is written all over him however he needs some skating work with a bit of a clunky looking stride.
20. RD Axel Sandin Pellikka - Skelleftea, SHL
ASP is a rare breed in this draft class, a true power play quarterback. Someone who moves well with the puck and transitions very well. A small wart on his transition game shows occasionally when pressured leaving a rushed decision or bad pass that leads to a turnover. Dangerous with the puck on his stick, Sandin-Pellikka boasts a plethora of attacking skills including great vision and puck skills in order to create offense from the point. Defensively, ASP is more solid than others indicate. Being a sub six foot defender incurs natural issues due to size, however Sandin-Pellikka plays a relatively tidy defensive game aside from a lack of focus in coverage and on the rush.
21. RD Tom Willander - Rogle BK, J20 Nationell
Willander is a player shooting up draft boards and a potential lottery pick at this stage. His bread and butter lies in his smooth skating game where he exudes confidence and skill on the puck. Willander breaks out the puck with succession, finding tape to tape passes and starting offense. Defensively, Willander shows strength and physical maturity at the junior level. He can lock down attackers and uses an active stick to win battles and strip opponents. Offensively, Willander needs some growth. His breakouts are often created through his superior skating ability, but he doesn’t have the ability to carry out those breakouts or find next level offensive plays so he’ll either simply square off the puck to a teammate or turn it over when trying to do too much. At the next level, Willander projects as a top four defenseman with limited offensive skill.
22. LW/C Samuel Honzek - Vancouver Giants, WHL
Honzek is a big bodied forward with some soft hands and real talent. His passing ability is top tier and sometimes his great vision results in the best pass that his teammates can’t see or can’t finish. This vision is super projectable and his big frame forecasts a player who is a sure mainstay on an NHL team. His wrist shot is also a big weapon, as he generates lots of power on it and can beat goalies with ease. Honzek needs some work defensively and seems less involved in his own end. He could be a real big bodied winger in the future.
23. LD Tanner Molendyk - Saskatoon Blades, WHL
Players that are worthy of being selected in the first round usually showcase at least one skill that is quantified as high end or even elite. For Tanner Molendyk his skill is his skating ability. Despite not translating this to a ton of offensive success, Molendyk executes near flawless skating at his age, and creates a lot of offense for his team despite what the numbers say. Really deceptive on the puck and got more creative as the year went on. Defensively, he uses his skating ability well and shuts down attackers with ease, using an active stick in combination with his agility. Molendyk has the tools to be dangerous on offense as well so his potential really leads me to believe he can become a solid top four defenseman.
24. C Nate Danielson - Brandon Wheat Kings, WHL
Danielson is a player who rose from outside of the first round this year and showed his well rounded game. Danielson shows skill on attack with his skating and stick-handling, maneuvering the puck at a high pace. He’s also able to slow down the game and not rush into a bad situation. Sometimes it’s hard to evaluate players without other top players on their teams because their great passes or higher level thinking is not understood. Danielson shows potential to become a solid middle six center with a potential at more. He plays a hard working two-way game to support his offensive skill. I’d like to see some more of a playmaking presence on the ice.
25. RW Eduard Sale - HC Kometa Brno, Extraliga
Sale fell all the way down my board through the course of the season for the simple reason of his consistency being one of the poorest of a prospect I’ve watched in recent years. Skill wise, I can rave for paragraphs about his combination of hands and shooting ability or even his dynamic skating that can create quality chances. He really is a dangerous player when he’s engaged but the case throughout this year and especially in international competition has been that he can’t stay consistent from game to game or even in the course of a single game. Even thinking the game, Sale really excels at processing the game and making decisions, however he just shuts off from time to time. He really excels on the power play and can control an offense when he’s engaged.
26. LW Andrew Cristall - Kelowna Rockets, WHL
Cristall is a player that really flashes off the page at you whether it’s on the scoresheet with nearly 100 points or on the ice with dynamic puck-handling and dazzling skill. When I’m talking about puck skills, he seriously can beat defenders in any situation and his skating could even still be improved. He’s great at finishing as well, often building up a play and then using his high level hockey IQ to find gaps in defenses off of rushes. Skill wise, Cristall is seriously in the top five but his drawbacks are critical. Physically, Cristall seems often disinterested or even affected by physical presences around him like a debuff. He will sometimes have moments on the puck where he just puts his head down and tries to do it all himself, just completely tunnel visioned. Cristall’s compete level is low and at times he just seems unwilling to put in the work, especially on defense where he will often just shut off. The promising conclusion to this is that he’s only 17 years old and has room to mature as a player which will surely see him thrive in the NHL due to his offensive treasure chest.
27. C/LW Riley Heidt - Prince George Cougars, WHL
Riley Heidt is an offensive stud, someone who can contribute in all facets offensively. His passing skill is top tier, and it showed in his 72 assists this season. On the powerplay especially, Heidt controlled the flow of play and was a general on the PP. Heidt isn’t the biggest player but he plays a sandpaper type of game and will work physically to retain and capture the puck. While his skating isn’t the prettiest thing ever, it’s sufficient and contains enough speed to pair with his soft hands that are on display to beat defenders consistently. Defensively, I’d like to see Heidt get a little more active with his physicality in order to create more turnovers. While he does project as a center, he could become a winger in the future.
28. RW Alexander Rykov - Chelmet Chelyabinsk, VHL
Rykov is a player that deserves much more hype than he’s been getting. The lack of international tournaments for Russian players has affected the draft stock of some of the more promising players with Rykov being one of those. Watching Rykov reminded me of Vasili Podkolzin in his draft year due to his similar physical and compete attributes that power his game. Rykov also has an offensive flair to his game, headlined by his high end skating ability in combination with his soft hands. Rykov is defensively adept and creates turnovers in puck battles or using his IQ to cover passing lanes. Rykov sustained an injury and had limited time to prove his quality this year, but will certainly be picked far later than he should. An aspect of Rykov’s game that could use some improvement is his shot, sometimes missing the mark or less accurate than needed although this could be an anomaly from certain games watched.
29. RW Jayden Perron - Chicago Steel, USHL
‘Puma’ Perron lit up the USHL with next year’s top talent Macklin Celebrini and showcased his offensive skill while doing so. Offensively, Perron’s stand out ability is his elusiveness on the puck. He uses a set of soft hands and quick skating to create high dancer chances for himself and his teammates. Perron functions most often as a playmaker, setting up his teammates with accurate passes and great opportunities. Perron is no slouch on defense and uses stick lifts and occasional tenacity to create turnovers. As a diminutive winger Perron needs to put in some more muscle and strength in order to take his game to the next level.
30. C/RW Bradly Nadeau - Penticton Vees, BCHL
Nadeau is a dynamic scoring forward who has absolutely dominated the BCHL this year. He has a talented offensive toolbox showcased by a laser wrist shot that may be up there with some of the best in the draft class. Nadeau also uses a variety of playmaking moves and a smooth set of hands to create pockets of space to unleash his shot. The NCAA will be a large step up for Nadeau next year as he transitions to the University of Maine. While Nadeau plays as a center for Penticton, he may not necessarily stick there in the NHL as his game may be better suited for the wing. As most players at this age do, Nadeau requires some physical strength added to his game and maybe a bit more of defensive attention.
31. LW Daniil But - Loko Yaroslavl, KHL
But is a real unique prospect and not one that has too many comparables. A large winger who showcases real offensive skill through playmaking abilities and a stinging wrist shot. Bluntly, he looks quite weird on the puck with his calculated and soft puck control in combination with his awkward skating technique. While this skating will improve as time goes on and he settles into his newfound size, it needs to be fixed before success will come at the next level. But is the epiphany of a raw player who could be a power forward, sniper, playmaker… no one knows what the future holds for him but a top six winger is possible with the tools at his disposal.
32. C David Edstrom - Frolunda HC, SHL
Edstrom is a big and physical center who plays a smart game. Earning a call up to the SHL with Frolunda, Edstrom showed his production and smart game is translatable at a higher level. A solid skater for his size, Edstrom uses his size in front of the net or in puck battles to compete on both sides of the ice. A real finisher, Edstrom has a snappy wrist shot with accurate ability and can also create for teammates. While using his size to his advantage in his career, Edstrom’s skill doesn’t seem to scream top six forward here. His game makes me think that a middle six center role is likely here.
33. RD Maxim Strbak - Sioux Falls Stampede, USHL
Strbak operates as a defensive specialist who can transition well with the puck on his stick. A physically imposing player, Strbak cuts out attackers and does well to push them wide. Offensively, Strbak didn’t have much success in the USHL but really seemed to embrace an attacking presence at the World Juniors in not only the U18’s but the U20’s as well where he contributed three points in five games. While there were some errors and turnovers while trying to force the issue on rushes, Strbak showed there’s room to grow into a more offensively adept player.
34. RW Gavin Brindley - Michigan, NCAA
Brindley was the beneficiary of a monster season from Adam Fantili’s Michigan campaign, but bringing light to Brindley gave him the chance to show his game to the world. Brindley plays a hard-working game which is exactly what you need from an undersized player. At 5’9 and 157 lbs, Brindley plays above his size. While this is still not good enough for the NHL, he has the tenacity to compete in puck battles and added strength will help him. Defensively, Brindley excels and competes on forechecks, rushes and puck battles. Brindley showcases a limited offensive skillset, but contains decent puck skills and playmaking ability. A middle six spot is very possible here.
35. RD Lukas Dragicevic - Tri-Cty Americans, WHL
Dragicevic’s offensive skill requires attention regardless of your views on the rest of his game. In transition he excels with high end puck skills and vision. Acting as a real fourth forward at times, Dragicevic attacks opponents and creates high danger chances as he moves up the ice. It’s worth keeping in mind that Dragicevic has been a forward for his junior career and changed into a defenseman when he was 14 years old so the defensive mindset has to grow. While his skills are high, his game is held back heavily by his skating ability. He looks quite slow at times and struggles to get up to speed, somewhat like a freight train taking a while to pick up speed. These skating struggles cause problems on the defensive end as dynamic skaters or puckhandlers can create space with quick moves that Dragicevic can’t react fast enough to.
36. RW Koehn Ziemmer - Prince George Cougars, WHL
Ziemmer is a physical goal scorer, someone who will score two goals and then throw a crunching hit resulting in a penalty or a fight. A shoot first player who’s been able to incorporate improved playmaking by the end of the year, showing promise for a double edged weapon. Ziemmer’s puck skills are also worthy of praise, often looking dangerous in traffic and capable of beating multiple defenders before setting up a teammate or ripping it home; a true multi-faceted threat. Ziemmer’s biggest weakness lies in his sub-par skating which looks quite slow and clunky. He looks very hunched over on the puck and not natural, however this can hopefully be fixed in the future.
37. LD Mikhail Gulyayev - Omsky Yastreby, MHL
Gulyayev is a perplexing player to watch. Bursting with speed and high quality skating technique, Gulyayev flies across the ice and creates offense with his legs. Using his agility, he has soft hands that create space as he flies by opponents. Defensively, Gulyayev is reactive and quick to shut down attackers using his skating ability to keep pace. Now after reading the start of this description, you may be thinking he warrants a lottery selection, however Gulyayev lacks hockey IQ. He will often make plays that leave me scratching my head and wondering why he chose to fire a shot with a teammate wide open. Physically, Gulyayev is underdeveloped and struggled in his limited KHL minutes to keep pace with bigger players in physical battles. Gulyayev has offensive potential in spades but may struggle to reach it if his brain can’t keep up with his skill.
38. LW Lenni Hameenaho - Assat, Liiga
Hameenaho produced more points in the Liiga this year than Juraj Slavkofsky did in his draft year, selected as the first overall pick. Hameenaho has been labeled as vanilla or bland, but his game is really not that. As a 17 year old playing in the Finnish top division, Hameenaho plays a smart and safe game, using his hockey IQ and offensive tools to help guide his play. Offensively he contributes well and will often find pockets of space to receive the puck and create offense. Skating wise, Hameenaho struggles with a real nasty looking form which has him looking quite slow on the ice. With some development in the upcoming years, Hameenaho projects as a middle six winger that uses his brain to provide solid offensive chances.
39. LD Caden Price - Kelowna Rockets, WHL
Price is a two way defenseman with flashes of brilliance in his game. Although inconsistent, Price can provide shutdown defense with an active stick and a wicked physical presence. With high level gap control and smarts, Price is active on rushes and able to shut down forwards when he’s turned on. His offensive game relies heavily on his breakout skill which is highlighted by his beautiful breakout passes, laced with high vision and pinpoint accuracy. As alluded to earlier, consistency is a huge issue here and I’ve watched a game or two where Price makes mistakes on both ends, looking like a player who’s sometimes overwhelmed.
40. C/RW Gracyn Sawchyn - Seattle Thunderbirds, WHL
Sawchyn is a deceptive player who’s shown high end offensive potential in the WHL with the Thunderbirds this year. His puck skills are very high and he creates chances on a regular basis with his creative style of play. Sawchyn is a real hustler and someone who projects down the center of his ice due to a solid two-way style of play. Defensively diligent and willing to get down and dirty. If Sawchyn pans out, he’s a second line center, but this is not a certainty. With limited opportunity this year, his production was not worthy of a first round grade from me.
41. C/LW Felix Nilsson - Rogle BK, SHL
Nilsson is a smart forward who brings a consistent offensive game to the table. A smart passer, Nilsson picks out teammates in space and provides constant offensive pressure with his high hockey IQ. An injury ended his season early and he didn’t get to perform with Sweden at any international tournaments, submerging his draft stock but the scouts who got to watch him know the quality he brings. Real middle six center upside.
42. C/RW Timur Mukhanov - Omskie Krylia, VHL
Mukhanov is one of those players you look at and just wonder if they had a few more inches of size what they would be like. At a smaller 5’8, Mukhanov is a hard working two way winger who flies up and down the ice. Agility and speed are two of his greatest weapons, using them on both sides of the ice to his advantage. Mukhanov has been extremely unlucky this season, often finding himself in great positions to score but not able to bury the puck. This can also be attributed to his weaker finishing skills that need improvement in order to ascend the pro ranks. His full season in the VHL should have given him a great taste of what he needs to improve to succeed.
43. RW/LW Nick Lardis - Hamilton Bulldogs, OHL
Lardis merits a high selection purely based on his offensive potential as a goal scorer. After his OHL trade halfway through the season, he flourished with the Hamilton Bulldogs, firing goals at nearly a goal per game pace. If he played the whole season with the team, you could be looking at a player viewed in a higher regard. His shot is electric and he uses his agility and quick edges to set up for a variety of hard and accurate shots that he often beats goalies with. He’s a real shoot first player that needs to adapt his game to make room for playmaking skills that can help his teammates flourish as well. Defensively, Lardis lacks engagement at times, but on his day can disrupt passing lanes and forecheck well.
44. RD Beau Akey - Barrie Colts, OHL
Beau Akey is a promising two way defender. His best attribute has to be his skating ability which he uses on both ends of the ice. Defensively, he can cut out plays displaying great gap control and footwork in order to match forwards on the charge. Offensively, Akey has the skating ability to be a contributor at the next level. If he can develop his offensive skill with some more deception to match his skates, he will be a real top four defender.
45. RW/C Ethan Gauthier - Sherbrooke Phoenix, QMJHL
Gauthier serves as a playmaking winger that delivers a high end offensive threat through his hockey IQ and hands. Always looking for holes in the defense, Gauthier can attack defenders with success and dish off the puck to teammates in space for a good chance. Gauthier has enjoyed throwing around his body in some of the viewings I’ve had, sometimes even dispossessing the puck carrier and gaining the puck for his team.
46. C/LW Oscar Fisker Mølgaard - HV71, SHL
Fisker Molgaard is a player who’s grown in my good books a lot near the end of the season. Initially, I didn’t see much of a projectable NHL player with some average skills and nothing flashy, but his consistency on both ends showed a responsible center with a strong 200 foot game. Fisker Molgaard uses an agile skating game to cover lots of ground on the ice as well as breakout with the puck. Quick puck handles and passing skill that gets the job done, Fisker Molgaard projects as a middle six center and one that can fulfill this role quite easily. When you get to the middle of the second round, you’re happy to select a player like Oscar who is likely to put on a jersey for your organization.
47.RD Oliver Bonk - London Knights, OHL
Bonk has shown a real defensive prowess this year with London, munching minutes and shutting down attackers time after time. Despite a 6 '1 stature (which is nothing to sneeze at), Bonk plays bigger than his size and imposes himself physically on opponents. Offensively, Bonk is not the best at unlocking defenses or picking out the right pass, however he showed a few glimpses of potential. With limited offensive potential, Bonk is still likely to make the NHL with his defensive knowledge. An improved skating form will help Bonk grow his game on the offensive end as he sometimes seems to struggle with the puck on his stick.
48.LD Theo Lindstein - Brynas IF, SHL
Lindstein is a real safe defenseman who executes defensively at a real high level. Offensively, Lindstein doesn’t provide too much to his team’s attack and will usually play short and safe passes to get the puck up the ice. With a solid skating ability, I’d like to see Lindstein take more risks and transition the puck on his stick. Lindstein provides value as a potential #4/5D who can crunch minutes and lock down defenders. Limited offensive upside.
49. RW Kasper Halttunen - HIFK, Liiga
Halttunen is a prototypical power forward with a wicked wrist shot. Rarely has someone performed so well in juniors but done so poorly in pros in a draft year in my memory. Halttunen uses his large 210 lb frame to his advantage, shielding the puck and throwing his body around. He can unleash his shot with tons of power as well as a heater one timer. As a shoot first player, Halttunen often forecasted his shot and didn't pass as much as he needed to, sometimes putting aside good opportunities for teammates in order to shoot himself.
50. LW/C Anton Wahlberg - Malmo, J20 Nationell
Wahlberg is a power forward who uses his speed and hands to create chances for his team, often resulting in scoring chances. Wahlberg is physically imposing and wins the puck often in battles, creating turnovers with his size. Wahlberg has played as a center and as a winger but I think his game projects better on the wing. I’d like to see Wahlberg think a little more critically on the puck as he sometimes tries to do too much.
51. RD Hunter Brzustewicz - Kitchener Rangers, OHL
Brzustewicz is a puck-moving defenseman who’s shown the ability to provide offense using his puck skills and passing ability. Brue loves to have the puck on his stick and initiate offense for his team, often showcasing his transition skills. Defensively, Brue can shut down plays but sometimes suffers from a lack of four way mobility. Sometimes pressure will confuse or hamper his ability to transition the puck, although he will sometimes fend it off.
52. RD Andrew Gibson - Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds, OHL
Gibson is a player with a frame and defensive toolbox that NHL scouts adore. At 6’3 and 200 lbs, Gibson shuts down defenders with his reach advantage and showcases solid gap control to deny rushes. Gibson needs some work on his skating to improve his clunky stride although this is expected for any large skater. Skating improvement will help his offensive game grow which has shown some potential.
53. LD Luca Cagnoni - Portland Winterhawks, WHL
Cagnoni is an elusive offensive defenseman who’s shown some defensive prowess over the course of the season. Cagnoni’s skating shows great edges and speed, leaving opponents in the dust at times with good acceleration. Cagnoni’s skating helps him defensively and his gap control has improved greatly. Physically, Cagnoni is a smaller 5’9 defenseman which will cause him problems at the next level. In physical battles, Cagnoni puts in a great effort but will be outmuscled at times. Cagnoni carries a top four projection with a sizable offensive output if all pans out.
54. LW/C Easton Cowan - London Knights, OHL
I’m a big fan of players that consistently display a high level of compete and don't give up on the ice. Easton Cowan is no exception and he works hard out there. A real intelligent player, Cowan processes the game well and uses it to his advantage as a playmaking winger. Forming a formidable duo with teammate Denver Barkey, they both showed their potential to be solid players at the next level.
55. RD Matthew Mania - Sudbury Wolves, OHL
Matthew Mania might have one of the highest offensive potentials in a defenseman in this class. His breakout game is his biggest strength and he carries the puck without fear up the ice. While this causes giveaways, it also causes offense in abundance. He finds teammates with passes and handles the puck with great skill. Mania’s defensive game needs some work and specifically his decision making on the rush. Sometimes he’s been made to look silly when falling for a deke or move, needing to work on his gap control and patience. Defensive flaws aside, Mania is a solid gamble for his offensive proficiency.
56. C/RW Carson Rehkopf - Kitchener Rangers, OHL
Rehkopf is a sniper which is somewhat evident from his thirty goals, scoring more than his twenty-nine assists. Rehkopf plays a shoot-first game but has shown good levels of passing as well, dishing off to teammates on occasion. His offensive skills show promise for a potential top six forward if everything goes perfectly well. Despite some consistency problems, Rehkopf could use some improvement in the skating department to help him fulfill his potential.
57. C/LW Carey Terrance - Erie Otters, OHL
On one of the worst teams in the OHL, Terrance scored thirty goals…this is an incredible feat and didn’t give him much time or puck possession in order to make things happen. Terrance seems to echo the sentiment that he doesn’t have much help however as he tries to often do a lot of the work on his own. He will try to over-handle the puck and turn it over, but he shows his skill so it’s hard to scout a player like this. Regardless, Terrance plays an energized defensive game and works hard on both ends of the ice. He’s a projectable middle six forward at this point.
58. LW/C Noah Dower-Nilsson - Frolunda HC, J20 Nationell
Dower-Nilsson put up a whole lot of points in the J20 league this year due to his offensive skills. NDH is a real triple threat, showcasing soft hands, a quick wrist shot and great passing vision. NDH has been playing as a center, but certainly projects as a winger and his game is well suited for the wing. While this seems promising, NDH is not a solid defender and this helps his projection on the wing. Also a real inconsistent player. Top six upside is there though.
59. C Charlie Stramel - Wisconsin, NCAA
Stramel is a big boy at 6’3 and nearly 220lbs. He plays a tenacious game and has shown some offensive promise with good passing skill, but he’s had a real disappointing NCAA season in comparison to expectations. Obviously a draft year talent isn’t expected to dominate the NCAA, but some expected a higher production level. With the offensive potential looking limited, Stramel projects as a third line center who can develop his offensive game to make it there.
60. C/LW Danny Nelson - U18’s, USNTDP
Nelson is a physical presence and a big body down the middle of the ice. He uses a high motor game to hound the opposition on the puck and create turnovers. Offensively, Nelson acts as a playmaker and has shown a level of creativity that impressed me. While his offensive consistency needs some work and his passes can be misplaced or show more accuracy, he shows a good vision. A solid all around player, won’t have skill that will find him in the top half of a lineup but shows promise to be a third line center.
61. LW Kalan Lind - Red Deer Rebels, WHL
Kalan Lind is a physical pest on the ice. He throws out huge hits and battles so hard for every puck. His defensive game is a real enticing piece to any team looking for a bottom six player with some skill. While Lind isn’t the biggest player, putting some muscle on could work wonders for his physical game seeing he plays way bigger than he is. Offensively, Lind is a playmaker who’s shown some good levels of offensive skill in flashes.
62. LD Arttu Karki - Tappara, U20 SM-Sarja
Karki is a really skill-filled defenseman with a great 6 '2 NHL frame. He shows good offensive skills and loves to transition the puck on his stick. Inside the blue line, Karki excels shooting the puck and has a powerful shot with some good accuracy. Karki didn’t earn a promotion to Tappara’s senior team due to an excess of competent defenders on the team, however an explanation could lie in Karki’s hands off defensive style. He isn’t always engaged on the defensive side of the game and has some real gap control issues. Despite his offensive flair, he often turns the puck over trying to do too much. THese issues need to be cleaned up or he won’t see the light of day on a pro NA team. The potential is high here though.
63. C Coulson Pitre - Flint Firebirds, OHL
Pitre is a two way center with a high compete level. He uses his size to his advantage and loves to fight in puck battles to retrieve the puck. As an attacker, Pitre is competent in all areas but doesn’t show a real high level skill. As a skater, Pitre can improve his skating technique to help spur on his high compete level. Pitre is a player that’s projectable as a third line center and one that coaches will love to send out and battle hard for the team.
64. C/RW William Whitelaw - Youngstown Phantoms. USHL
Whitelaw has offensive skills in abundance. His shot is his best ability, scoring with power, accuracy, and variety. He uses his high level puck handling to manipulate the puck around defenders and create space for his shot. As a passer, Whitelaw will often hold onto the puck too long and try to do it all himself at times. This is something that has to change. Physically, Whitelaw gets dirty and fights for pucks but his 5’9 stature will be a barrier at the next level.
65. C Denver Barkey - London Knights, OHL
66. LW Hannes Hellberg - Leksands, J20 Nationell
67. RW Ryan Conmy - Sioux City Musketeers, USHL
68. LW/RW Alex Ciernik - Sodertalje SK, Allsvenskan
69. C Luca Pinelli - Ottawa 76’s, OHL
70. RW Roman Kantserov - Stalnye Lisy Magnitogorsk, MHL
71. LW Yegor Klimovich - Sibirskie Snaipery Novosibirsk, MHL
72. C/RW Andrei Loshko - Chicoutimi Sagueneens, QMJHL
73. LW Juraj Pekarcik - HK Nitra, Slovakia
74. RW Mathieu Cataford - Halifax Mooseheads, QMJHL
75. LW Aydar Suniev - Penticton Vees, BCHL
76. LW Gavyn Thoreson - Waterloo Black Hawks, USHL
77. LD Andrew Strathmann - Youngstown Phantoms. USHL
78. C Connor Levis - Kamloops Blazers, WHL
79. RD Aram Minnetian - U18’s, USNTDP
80. LW Emil Jarventie - KOOVEE, Mestis
81. RW Jayson Shaugabay - Warroad High, USHS
82. RW Felix Unger Sorum - Leksands IF, J20 Nationell
83. LD Tristan Bertucci - Flint Firebirds, OHL
84. RW Jesse Kiiskinen - Pelicans, U20 SM-Sarja
85. LD Arvid Bergstrom - Djurgardens IF, J20 Nationell
86. RW Matthew Soto - Kingston Frontenacs, OHL
87. LD Quinton Burns - Kingston Frontenacs, OHL
88. C/LW Tyler Peddle - Drummondville Voltigeurs, QMJHL
89. RW Zachary Nehring - Shattuck St. Mary’s, USHS
90. LD Justin Kipkie - Victoria Royals, WHL
91. RW Aiden Fink - Brooks Bandits, AJHL
92. LW/RW Nico Myatovic - Seattle Thunderbirds, WHL
93. RD Carter Sotheran - Portland Winterhawks. WHL
94. RW Nikita Susuyev - Spartak Moscow, MHL
95. LD Michael Hagens - Chicago Steel, USHL
96. RW Will Vote - U18’s, USNTDP
97. LW Jesse Nurmi - KooKoo, U20 SM-Sarja
98. LD Larry Keenan - Culver Military Academy, USHS
99. C Zeb Forsfjall - Skelleftea, SHL
100. LD Paul Fischer - U18’s, USNTDP
101. RW Cam Squires - Cape Breton Eagles, QMJHL
102. C Rasmus Kumpulainen - Pelicans, U20 SM-Sarja
103. LD Jakub Dvorak - Bílí Tygři Liberec, Extraliga
104. C Jaden Lipinski - Vancouver Giants, WHL
105. C Tanner Ludtke - Lincoln Stars, USHL
106. RD Cameron Allen - Guelph Storm, OHL
107. RD Dylan MacKinnon - Halifax Mooseheads, QMJHL
108. C Martin Misiak - Youngstown Phantoms, USHL
109. RD Mazden Leslie - Vancouver Giants, WHL
110. C Kalle Carlsson - Orebro, J20 Nationell
111. LW Cole Burbridge - Saint John Sea Dogs, QMJHL
112. RW Tuomas Uronen - HIFK - U20 SM-Sarja
113. LW Ethan Miedema - Kingston Frontenacs, OHL
114. LD Albert Wikman - Färjestad BK, SHL
115. RW/C Tanner Adams - Tri-City Storm, USHL
116. RD Gavin McCarthy - Muskegon Lumberjacks, USHL
117. C Joseph Willis - Saginaw Spirit, OHL
118. RW/LW Griffin Erdman - Waterloo Black Hawks, USHL
119. LD Sawyer Mynio - Seattle Thunderbirds, WHL
120. C Ivan Anoshko - Dinamo-Shinnik Bobruysk, MHL
121. RD Axel Landen - HV71, J20 Nationell
122. C/LW Frantisek Dej - Modre Kridla Slovan, Slovakia
123. C Mikhail Ye. Ilyin - Severstal Cherepovets, KHL
124. LD Drew Fortescue - U18’s, USNTDP
125. RW Noel Nordh - Brynas IF, J20 Nationell
126. LW Yegor Rimashevsky - Dynamo Moscow, MHL
127. C Ryan Fine - U18’s, USNTDP
128. RD Kalem Parker - Victoria Royals, WHL
129. LW Beckett Hendrickson - U18’s, USNTDP
130. C Jakub Stancl - Vaxjo Lakers HC, J20 Nationell
131. RD Hoyt Stanley - Victoria Grizzlies, BCHL
132. LD Rodwin Dionicio - Windsor Spitfires, OHL
133. C/LW Isac Hedqvist - Lulea, J20 Nationell
134. LW Egor Sidorov - Saskatoon Blades, WHL
135. LD Zach Schulz - U18’s, USNTDP
136. RW Alex Pharand - Sudbury Wolves, OHL
137. RD Jordan Tourigny - Shawinigan Cataractes, QMJHL
138. LW/C Tommasso De Luca - Spokane Chiefs, WHL
139. RD Vojtech Port - Edmonton Oil Kings, WHL
140. LD Daniil Karpovich - Avto Yekaterinburg, MHL
141. LD Magomed Sharakanov - Dynamo Moskva, MHL
142. LD Brady Cleveland - U18’s, USNTDP
143. C Brad Gardiner - Ottawa 76’s, OHL
144. LW Hunter Anderson - Shattuck St. Mary’s, USHS
145. C Jonathan Castagna - St. Andrews, CAHS
146.LW Ondrej Molnar - Erie Otters, OHL
147. LW/C Julius Sumpf - RB Juniors, AlpsHL
148. LD Ben Robertson - Waterloo Black Hawks, USHL
149. RD Matteo Mann - Chicoutimi Sagueneens, QMJHL
150. RW Andrew Kuzma - Madison Capitols, USHL
151. LD Peteris Bulans - Chicoutimi Sagueneens, QMJHL
152. C Dominik Petr - Lukko, U20 SM-Sarja
153. RW Austin Roest - Everett Silvertips, WHL
154. LD Emil Pieniemi - Karpat, U20 SM-Sarja
155. LD Luke Coughlin - Rimouski Oceanic, QMJHL
156. RD Vojtech Port - Edmonton Oil Kings, WHL
157. LW Ty Henricks - Muskegon Lumberjacks, USHL
158. C Joe Connor - Avon Old Farms, USHS
159. RW Adam Cedzo - Ocelari Trinec, Czech U20
160. RW Vadim Moroz - Dynamo Minsk, KHL
161.LD Matteo Koci - Energie Karlovy Vary, Czech
162. RD Kaden Hammell - Everett Silvertips, WHL
163. RW Cole Brown - Hamilton Bulldogs, OHL
164. C Jimmy Clark - Green Bay Gamblers, USHL
165. RD Yaroslav Tsulygin - Salavat Yulaev Ufa, KHL
166. C Cole Knuble - Fargo Force, USHL
167. C Ethan Hay - Flint Firebirds, OHL
168. LD Jeremy Hanzel - Seattle Thunderbirds, WHL
169. LD Anton Maryshev - Spartak Moscow, MHL
170. C Jake Fisher - Fargo Force, USHL
171. LD Luke Mittelstadt - Univ. of Minnesota, NCAA
172. LD Hugo Hell - Färjestad, U20 Nationell
173. RW Jan Sprynar - Rimouski Oceanic, QMJHL
174. C Oliver Tulk - Calgary Hitmen, WHL
175. RD Chase Cheslock - Omaha Lancers, USHL
176. RW/C Hugo Lejon - Vasteras IK, J20 Nationell
177. LD Saige Weinstein - Spokane Chiefs, WHL
178. C Isac Born - Frolunda HC, SHL
179. LW Roman Kukumberg - HC Slovan Bratislava, Slovakia
180. RD Gennadi Chaly - Waterloo Black Hawks, USHL
181. C Ty Halaburda - Vancouver Giants, WHL
182. LD Lucas St. Louis - Dubuque Fighting Saints, USHL
183. C Samuel Fiala - Bílí Tygři Liberec, Czech U20
184. C Tom Leppä - Jokerit, U20 SM-Sarja
185. RW Stanislav Yarovoy - Vityaz, KHL
186. LW Emil Kuusla - Jokerit, U20 SM-Sarja
187. RD Donovan McCoy - Peterborough Petes, OHL
188. LD Mario Patalakha - Dynamo Moskow, MHL
189. LW Hugo Pettersson - HV71, J20 Nationell
190. RW Ignat Lutfullin - SKA-Varyagi Morozova, MHL
191. C/LW Petter Vesterheim - Mora IK, Allsvenskan
192. LW Mikey DeAngelo - Green Bay Gamblers, USHL
193.RD Ty Hanson - Sioux City Musketeers, USHL
194. C Angus MacDonell - Mississauga Steelheads, OHL
195. LD Terrell Goldsmith - Prince Albert Raiders, WHL
196. LD Matthew Mayich - Ottawa 76’s, OHL
197. RD Ty Higgins - Acadie-Bathurst Titan, QMJHL
198. RD Marek Rocak - Kelowna Rockets, WHL
199. LW Mael Lavigne - Victoriaville Tigres, QMJHL
200. LD Hudson Thornton - Prince George Cougars, WHL
201. RD Konstantin Volochko - Dinamo-Shinnik Bobruysk, MHL
202. RW/LW Melvin Wersall - Djurgardens IF, J20 Nationell
203. RW Calem Mangone - Saginaw Spirit, OHL
204. C Nikita Nedopyokin - SKA St. Petersburg, MHL
205. C Alex Weiermair - U18’s, USNTDP
206. LD Tyler Duke - Ohio State Univ., NCAA
207. LD Noah Chadwick - Lethbridge Hurricanes, WHL
208. C Cooper Foster - Ottawa 76’s, OHL
209. RD Bogdan Konyushkov - Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod, KHL
210. RW Ty Daneault - Drumheller Dragons, AJHL
211. RW Radel Zamaltdinov - Bars Kazan, VHL
212. RW Anthony Romani - North Bay Battalion, OHL
213. LW Charlie Cerrato - U18’s, USNTDP
214. C Luke McNamara - Saginaw Spirit, OHL
215. RW/C Oliver Peer - Windsor Spitfires, OHL
216. RW Elliot Stahlberg - Farjestad, J20 Nationell
217. LW Logan Wormald - Lethbridge Hurricanes, WHL
218. C Benjamin Poitras - Sioux City Musketeers, USHL
219. RW Jackson Nevers - Edina High, USHS
220. RD Maxim Fedotov - Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod, KHL
221. RW Deagen McMillan - Tri-City Americans, WHL
222. C Brandon Svoboda - Youngstown Phantoms, USHL
223. C Joseph Henneberry - Acadie-Bathurst Titan, QMJHL
224. LD Francesco Dell’Elce - St. Andrews, CAHS
225. LD Alexis Daviault - Erie Otters, OHL
Sleepers
LW Hannes Hellberg - Leksands, J20 Nationell (Ranked #66) - My favourite overager who was 13 days from being a first year entry. Lit up the J20 this year and buried tons of goals. Hidden in the J18 last year and only got promoted to the J20 this year for the first time. Rocket wrist shot with a quick release and a real goal scorer. Bigger body and plays physically in board battles. Really underrated player who should get some SHL time next year. This is a player I'm very high on.
C/RW Andrei Loshko - Chicoutimi Sagueneens, QMJHL (Ranked #72) - A Skillful Belarussian winger that has developed a high level of chemistry with top prospect Maxim Masse. While he gathered some steam heading into playoffs, he was held to one point and dropped down many boards. Loshko is a two way center who put up 70 points in the QMJHL this year, so why is he held in such low regard? The biggest flaw of Loshko's game falls in his puckhandling skills which are subpar. This is a skill that can certainly be developed with time however. I'll bank on his smart game and passing skill to pan out as a third line center in the NHL.
LD Arvid Bergstrom - Djurgardens IF, J20 Nationell (Ranked #85) - Bergstrom is a player with dynamic skating that plays a solid two way game. Underrated by almost all scouting services, Bergstrom has some real NHL upside and one that could result in a middle pairing defenseman if all pays off. Bergstrom loves to jump into the attack with his skating ability and uses his speed to his advantage. He needs some defensive work in order to tidy up some mistakes and deficiencies like gap control and decision making on defense.
LD Larry Keenan - Culver Military Academy, USHS (Ranked #97) - Keenan is a physical defender with a large frame that shows promise as a breakout defender with the puck on his stick. His skating is still a work in progress, but Keenan will be joining the University of Massachusetts next year with a solid development team where he can work on his pro game and develop these skills. He loves jumping into the rush and creating offense.
LW/C Julius Sumpf - RB Juniors, AlpsHL (Ranked #147) - Sumpf is a winger not given much love this year despite his solid production in the Alps pro hockey league in Austria with RB. Sumpf showed flashes of high skill in the U18's, leading Germany in points. Sumpf has good puck handling ability and an accurate wrist shot which he likes to use often cutting towards the net.
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