Hi everyone,
The NHL Central Scouting Bureau released their final rankings for North American and European skaters and goalies eligible for the draft. The number one spot has changed many times during the season, and I will predict the top 5 picks of this year's draft off of team needs and player rankings. The NHL Draft lottery was held the other day, with the order 1-14 being chosen, with playoffs deciding the rest of the draft positions.
1. Edmonton Oilers- Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, C: Red Deer Rebels (WHL)- This highly skilled and versatile player had a phenomenal season and is considered one of the best offensive minded players in recent draft history. The Oilers desperately need defense, however, the poise and hockey IQ of this player should not be passed by. Also, being the number one ranked player going into the draft he is sure to be chosen quickly. The Oilers have recently become intoxicated with and are attracted to young and talented CHL forwards, selecting Eberle and Hall in past first rounds.
2. Colorado Avalanche- Gabriel Landeskog, LW: Kitchener Rangers (OHL)- This strong Swedish power forward and captain of the Kitchener Rangers is extremely composed on the ice and can make big plays. He is a natural leader which could complement Duchene and Stastny nicely; and also give them a powerhouse wing to play with. Ranked 2nd overall for North American skaters he is considered to be the player in the draft who is most ready for play in the NHL. Colorado has no need for d-men currently so this is probably their best pick.
3. Florida Panthers- Jonathan Huberdeau, C: Saint John Sea Dogs (QMJHL)- Being a solid forward is the immediate draw to Huberdeau from the Panthers, who desperately some offense. He is also ready for time in the NHL so he could be utilized fairly quickly. The Panthers drafted d-man Kulikov in the first round in 2009 and skilled d-man Gudbranson last year with their 3rd overall pick so young defensive minded players will not be on their agenda.
4. New Jersey Devils- Adam Larsson, D: Skelleftea AIK (Elitserien)- As the top ranked European skater this big defenseman should go earlier in the draft but does not meet any of the other teams needs. However, the Devils would give anything to get a talented blue liner like this, and most likely will. As an experienced professional in Sweden he played great at the World Junior Championships this year and could make an impact on the defensively struggling New Jersey group fairly quick.
5. New York Islanders- Dougie Hamilton, D: Niagara IceDogs (OHL)- A strong and large presence on the blue line he could fill a defensive spot if not this year then next in a pathetic Islanders team. With Grabner, Tavares, Moulson, Okposo, and Comeau up front this Long Island team has filled up all young offensive slots, but with an aging defense they could definitely use this prospect on their team.
So, that is my top 5. These prospects fit every teams needs and will go nicely into each organization. Surprisingly Sean Couturier who used to be the number 1 ranked North American skater is not on most peoples top 5, including mine. However, he will most likely go in the top 10.
Those are really good picks. I like Ryab Nugent I think he is going to be a mutli all-star and a superstar in the NHL because of his skills.
ReplyDeleteIf the Oilers take Ryan Nugent 1st overall they could be a threat in the near future. With the young talent of Eberle and Hall, the Oilers will bring a fast pace game with alot of talent, and could make a playoff run in the near future.
ReplyDeleteThe oilers always do a good job drafting players and Ryan Nugent looks to be a legitament threat in the near future. if the Oilers take him with the 1st overall pick, then i could easily say that the fututre is looking bright in edmonton.
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