Auston Matthews is the top ranked prospect in this years class of young talent and experts are 99 percent sure he will hear his name called first on Friday, but with seven total selections, the front office will be busy this weekend as the team looks to find the youngsters that will lead this franchise into the future.
Here's @JeffMarek's top-12 mock draft for the 1st-round of the 2016 NHL Draft. Do you like who your team is picking? pic.twitter.com/RdBL91yYdC
— Tim and Sid (@timandsid) June 21, 2016
We updated our NHL mock draft tool with the just released @TSNBobMcKenzie top 80 ranking.pic.twitter.com/KciWQSjs0W
— CapFriendly (@CapFriendly) June 21, 2016
Rumors on a potential trade materialized this week as the Leafs traded for Anaheim Ducks goalie Frederik Andersen, a move that will help solidify the position and allow management to concentrate on other areas of need, especially some size and toughness on the back line.
With the coaching staff changes last year and an emphasis on adding a more physical lineup on the ice, most NHL experts believe the team will look for more muscle this summer. The latest mocks agree and it all starts this weekend.
With the teams pick in round two, general manager Lou Lamoriello has a shot at adding some good talent. Defender Lucas Johansen is a solid option with the 31st overall pick. The young man has good size at 6’2″ and the frame to add another 20 pounds of muscle over the next few years. With the team looking to improve defensively, Johansen seems a good fit for what the organization is trying to accomplish.
Depth has become an issue with the team, but with several quality youngsters ready to make the jump to the big club, the latter rounds can be used to add the best available talent at any position. Look for the Maple Leafs to possibly select a goalie and some big front line players and with some luck, these young men could be the future and help turn the franchise into a regular contender for the playoffs.
