The battle for the top overall selection appears to be between Edmonton and Columbus with the winner of the wooden spoon getting the pleasure of drafting center Connor McDavid of Erie of the Ontario Hockey League.
McDavid has good size at 6’1″ and 190 pounds, but where he shows the most promise is his ability to put the puck in the net. The 17-year-old is making a splash in the World Juniors with his skating and puck handling skills for Canada. The youngster was the first player taken in the 2012 OHL Draft and his progress over the past two years makes him the top player in the latest player rankings.
A number of quality centers are available and in the latest mock from NHL Draft, upwards of nine players from this position could be taken in the top-15 picks. United States product Jack Eichel is widely considered the second best player available and should hear his names called early in the first round.
The Oilers have a big decision as the back line is the weak link for the franchise. Despite reports that one of the two players already mentioned will get picked by Edmonton, Noah Hanifin could come into the picture if the front office decides to go with a defender.
For those teams looking for help on the wing, Lawson Crouse of Kingston is the top target. With a 6’2″ 190 pound frame, Crouse already has the size scouts love and with his terrific year in the OHL, he should get picked in the top-10 with Colorado or Florida as the teams likely with the most interest.
Unlike most sports, these young players could take a couple years before they make a big impact in the league, but for those teams looking to build a strong foundation, these players could be the answer.
