2026 NHL Mock Draft: Final top 96

Jun 26, 2026, 07:00 EDTUpdated: Jun 26, 2026, 00:48 EDT

Credit: Chase Reid (Steven Ellis/The Nation Network)

BUFFALO – Let the chaos begin.

The 2026 NHL Draft kicks off at KeyBank Center on Thursday, and it is easily set to be one of the most unpredictable we’ve ever seen. There has been so much chatter about who’ll go where, which teams will trade their picks and who the biggest surprises might be. We’ve already seen enough craziness as it is this week, so what’s a little bit more?

If you’re looking for a detailed draft ranking, check out our final 120 posted last week. But for those seeking a bit of intel, mixed in with some personal picks, here’s Daily Faceoff’s final mock draft:

1. Toronto Maple Leafs: Gavin McKenna, LW (Penn State University, NCAA)

It feels unlikely Toronto would go any other way. He’s the most skilled forward, and just about everyone I’ve talked to has McKenna joining the Leafs out of training camp next year. Toronto needed something to make next season more fun – McKenna makes that happen. Don’t overthink it – unless there’s a trade-off you simply can’t refuse. McKenna can handle the pressure probably better than anyone in the draft, given he’s been in the spotlight for about half a decade.

2. San Jose Sharks: Ivar Stenberg, LW (Frolunda, SHL)

With the likelihood of selecting a defender at No. 9, this makes it easier to go best player available. Stenberg is strong with the puck, has a fantastic shot and might have the second-best hockey sense of anyone in the draft behind McKenna’s. Stenberg’s production fell as the season wore on, but he still had one of the best seasons by a U-19 player in recent SHL history. Stenberg’s ceiling might not be as high as McKenna’s from an offensive production standpoint. But if you’re looking for someone who excels in more facets of the game, Stenberg is the best choice.

3. Vancouver Canucks: Caleb Malhotra, C (Brantford Bulldogs, OHL)

I don’t love this from a pressure perspective, but it’s not like the Canucks weren’t interested in him from the get-go. Malhotra’s steady, smart play has helped him emerge as the No. 1 center for this draft. It’s not a great group down the middle, but Malhotra looks like a future top-six threat. He was a huge part of Brantford’s success this year, which included 13 goals and 26 points in just 15 playoff games. Malhotra battles hard at both ends, giving opponents little time to make quick, heads-up decisions with the puck. Will he have the natural play-driving ability to excel offensively in the NHL? We’ll see.

4. Buffalo Sabres (via Chicago Blackhawks): Chase Reid, RHD (Soo Greyhounds, OHL)

The Sabres moved Bowen Byram to get this pick, which means snagging a D makes sense here for Buffalo. They could also use a center, so I wouldn’t be surprised to see Viggo Björck here instead. But Reid is the best defender available, thanks to his outstanding puck skills and competitive nature. You can argue that the OHL isn’t as strong as it once was because the older competition jumped to the NCAA early. But with all the translatable skills – primarily, decision-making under pressure, outstanding mobility and high-end vision – he is definitely the closest to becoming a No. 1 defenseman out of anyone.

5. New York Rangers: Carson Carels, LHD (Prince George Cougars, WHL)

Carels, in my opinion, is closer to being the best defender than the third. He was one of the best young blueliners in the CHL, and scouts love him. Carels brings that rugged, heavy-lifting mentality he and his family use on the farm right onto the ice. When you combine his elite defensive awareness, seamless two-way game, punishing physique, and off-the-charts hockey IQ, you get a truly premium defensive prospect. He showed high-end flashes during the World Juniors, and he possesses every tool necessary to become a top-pairing defender one day. You won’t find many more defensemen as rounded as him in the draft, and he hits like an absolute truck. Carels is the type of prospect who’ll work his tail off no matter what, and you have to love that.

6. Calgary Flames: Viggo Björck, C (Djurgardens, SHL)

Björck is a good fit here. Björck played first-line minutes to close the SHL season out, which is incredible given he was 17 for most of the year. He impressed at the World Juniors and was one of my favorite players at the World Championship. He might be small, but he’s not afraid of physical play and is a wizard with the puck. With his combination of fearlessness and pure skill, the Flames would be very happy to add Björck to the fold and continue to build up their depth down the middle.

7. Seattle Kraken: Keaton Verhoeff, RHD (University of North Dakota, NCAA)

This is a name that got mentioned to Seattle quite a lot in recent weeks. Verhoeff jumped from the WHL to the NCAA this year and was productive, averaging 16 to 20 minutes per game on one of the top teams in the country. He takes up a ton of space at 6-foot-4 and is willing to hit you hard while also making many high-end passes in the offensive zone. Scouts wish he’d add a bit more speed to be a true top-pairing defender, though, but there’s time for him to figure that out. His slow end to the season has dropped his stock, but it could be found money for Seattle if Verhoeff smooths things out. I really like the upside here.

8. Winnipeg Jets: Alberts Šmits, LHD (EHC München, DEL)

Šmits was a big part of Latvia’s World Junior and Olympic teams this season. The 6-foot-3 blueliner moves well for his size and makes so much happen with the puck. It’s always nice seeing an 18-year-old who plays with a ton of confidence on the power play. He also has plenty of pro experience under his belt, highlighted by a strong first half with Jukurit in the Finnish Liiga before joining München to finish the DEL campaign. You don’t often find a draft-eligible defender in Euro pro leagues who plays 18-20 minutes, but Šmits impressed.

9. San Jose Sharks (via Florida Panthers and Ottawa Senators): Daxon Rudolph, RHD (Prince Albert Raiders, WHL)

After picking Stenberg and skipping Chase Reid, the Sharks will snag the defenseman with perhaps the highest offensive ceiling in the draft here. Rudolph has a booming shot, makes great breakout passes and can knock guys down. Rudolph’s two-way game is intriguing, as is his ability to get himself out of trouble consistently with and without the puck. I think there’s still work to be done to make him more aggressive in the D zone – he’s a bit too passive for some scouts’ liking. But with the puck, Rudolph should become a top-four threat who can play on one of the power-play units.

10. Nashville Predators: Wyatt Cullen, LW (USNTDP)

Cullen is one of the smarter wingers in this draft class. Some scouts think there’s legit potential for Cullen to go in the top five. He was USA’s top player throughout the U-18 World Championship thanks to his high-end hockey sense and ability to get the whole American attack moving. His puck-handling – both as a shooter and a passer – is remarkable. Cullen is a high-end skater who seemed to find another gear once he got up to speed this season. Cullen is a constant scoring threat because he’s always scanning lanes for passes, but he has the quick footwork and lateral mobility to blow by most opponents and put himself into dangerous areas.

11. St. Louis Blues: Malte Gustafsson, LHD (HV71, Sweden U-20)

Teams took notice of Gustafsson’s hot U-18s, and it’s hard to believe he’ll fall out the top 15 on draft day now. Gustafsson is a 6-foot-4 defender who played well in the SHL, despite having little to show for it on the scoresheet. His skating is good for his size, allowing him to play a very mobile game. Gustafsson rarely struggles to get the puck out of his zone. A lack of flash and high-end offensive instinct likely won’t help his stock to the average fan, but you still need guys who can kill plays, and that’s exactly what he does – quite effectively, I might add. Gustafsson will have a very solid career, no doubt about it.

12. New Jersey Devils: Ethan Belchetz, LW (Windsor Spitfires, OHL)

The Devils could use a massive power forward who can handle the physical game while pummeling shots on net. I call Belchetz the Chaos Conductor because he uses his 6-foot-5 frame to push his way into scoring lanes, and few defenders know how to handle that. I’m not sure he’s quick enough to be as big of a difference-maker as I’d hope, but I still see top-six potential here. Plus, I don’t think Belchetz will have a difficult time winning fans over with his play style – he’s the best power forward in the draft class.

13. New York Islanders: Tynan Lawrence, C (Boston University, NCAA)

Could the Islanders capitalize on Lawrence’s fallen stock? A disappointing college tenure, combined with a lackluster U-18s, definitely didn’t help Lawrence’s standing. He was once viewed as a legitimate candidate to go first overall – like, four months ago. The good news? He really found his game near the end of the NCAA season and should play a leading role with BU next year. He’s an aggressive forward who boasts high-end hockey IQ. There’s still a lot to love about his game, but he’ll need to have a huge season in college to really win back scouts. For now, he’s a high-risk, high-reward pick – but one the Blues should absolutely consider at this point.

14. Columbus Blue Jackets: Ryan Lin, RHD (Vancouver Giants, WHL)

I really like Lin, who is coming off a solid showing at the U-18s and is easily one of the most skilled defensemen in the draft class. While Lin is small at 5-foot-11, he does an excellent job of making sure opponents don’t get near him or the puck. His decision-making is near the top, and he has the skating to burn guys. You put those together and it’s easy to understand why Lin has the puck so often. I think he still has a few things to work on, but I believe in Lin’s game enough to think the team that takes him will have a fan favorite on its hands.

15. St. Louis Blues (via Detroit Red Wings): Alexander Command, C (Orebro, Sweden U-20)

The Blues have insane draft capital, so I feel like it’s hard to screw this up. Command isn’t flashy, but he has all the makings of a reliable, all-situations center in the NHL. His floor is very high – he fits an archetype that succeeds quite frequently. He’s a smart, solid two-way center who makes everyone around him better. He doesn’t seem to have many off shifts, and that’s because he’s effective away from the puck, too. Command can contribute offensively but also will win faceoffs, block shots and make moves with intent. I’ve liked him internationally, and he has played quite well against his own age group. I think he can be a truly fantastic No. 2 center.

16. St. Louis Blues (via Washington Capitals): Oscar Hemming, LW (Boston College, NCAA)

After missing the first half of the season due to a contract dispute with his Finnish club, Hemming came out swinging with Boston College. He had a pair of assists in just his second game and even had a nice four-point run during a three-game stretch. But after finishing with just two points in his final 11 games, it was a difficult end for a guy many scouts still really like. At his best, the 6-foot-4 forward is an absolute menace who can beat you with size, speed, and skill. The raw potential is there, but he was forced to play some heavy catch-up to make up for lost time. I think a full year of college will do him wonders, and I still see some top-six potential.

17. Los Angeles Kings: Nikita Klepov, RW (Saginaw Spirit, OHL)

Klepov is a stout shooter and wasn’t far off from reaching the 40-goal barrier this season. It was a bit surprising to see how hot he started, given he only put up 31 points in the USHL the year prior. But once he showed how consistent he could be, scouts became believers. The Michigan State University commit plays with a ton of finesse, but he’s physically strong, too. He’s just an OK skater, but that’ll improve with time. I really like this for LA, though – it feels like he’d be a good top-six scoring threat for a team that needs a bit of that in the system.

18. Washington Capitals (via Anaheim Ducks): Maksim Sokolovskii, LHD (London Knights, OHL)

It feels like Sokolovskii is bound to go in the first round this year. Teams can’t get enough of his 6-foot-8 frame. Nobody will mistake Sokolovskii for an offensive demon – he had eight points between 49 regular season and playoff games. But he’s truly a terrifying human being when it comes to 1-on-1 situations – he makes it his life mission to kill you. There isn’t a single player that he’s afraid of, yet everyone is terrified about the possibility of Sokolovskii adding another dimension of speed to his game in the future. I really like Sokolovskii as a shutdown option – he makes it his goal to stop guys at any cost, something teams typically like.

19. Utah Mammoth: Adam Novotny, LW (Peterborough Petes, OHL)

Novotný would be a stellar pick here for a Mammoth team that could use some extra scoring on the wing. He’s a rugged forward with an excellent shot – something we saw plenty of times with Peterborough. Novotný surpassed the 30-goal mark as an OHL rookie with Peterborough and easily finished as the Petes’ No. 1 scorer. Novotný loves to get the puck on net by any means necessary, and he’s a strong skater, too. I like his two-way work – he’s a full-time team player. I see a solid middle-six scoring threat here.

20. Buffalo Sabres (via San Jose Sharks): Elton Hermansson, RW (MoDo, Allsvenskan)

The Sabres could use another skilled winger in the system. Hermansson loves generating offense – the 12 points at the U-18s are a perfect example of that. He put up solid numbers in the second-tier Swedish league this year, which isn’t easy to do. From an offensive standpoint, there’s a lot to love, especially on the power play. His game away from the puck is just “OK” at best. It feels like he isn’t as impactful as he needs to be when he’s not piling shots on net. I want to see more urgency when attacking opponents to regain possession. That being said, the offensive potential is high, and I’d love to see him alongside Konsta Helenius – it feels like a perfect match.

21. Philadelphia Flyers: Oliver Suvanto, C (Tappara, Liiga)

The Flyers love drafting big dudes, and the 6-foot-3 Suvanto would be a good fit. Suvanto spent most of the season playing against men in Tappara, where he has shown he can play a reliable two-way game. I wish we saw him put up better numbers against junior-aged players, though. Still, I really like his play away from the puck, and I thought he looked solid at the World Juniors in a variety of roles. I think we’re talking about a big, middle-six guy here, but I want him to find another gear offensively.

22. Pittsburgh Penguins: Ilia Morozov, C (Miami University, NCAA)

Morozov was the youngest player in college hockey, but you couldn’t tell with how often Miami relied on him this year. At 6-foot-3 and more than 200 pounds, he’s a big center who commands respect. He put up solid numbers on a team that didn’t have a ton of big-time firepower to work with. I also like his confidence and the way he’s always looking to make a pass, even through traffic. Morozov doesn’t have as much offensive upside as some others around this point. But his game away from the puck, mixed in with his overall power, intrigues me. If you’re the Penguins, you probably love this pick.

23. Boston Bruins: William Håkansson, LHD (Almtuna IS, Allsvenskan)

The Bruins could use another defender in the system, and Håkansson, while not flashy, would be a solid pickup. Can he kill plays? You bet, and that’s what matters. He uses his big 6-foot-4, 207-pound frame to flatten opponents while being a pain in the rear end defensively. Håkansson is quite mobile for his frame, too. I have little concern about his D-zone play or his ability to be a decent penalty killer. He can be mean, too.

24. Vancouver Canucks (via Minnesota Wild): Mathis Preston, RW (Vancouver Giants, WHL)

Preston’s strong showing at the U-18s helped boost his stock in a big way. He finished with six points in five games while being one of the team’s top all-around offensive threats. He was a puck-possession machine, and he consistently got the puck into high-danger areas. Preston is an undeniably talented player who could become a top-six threat down the line. Preston has a remarkable shot and often wastes no time firing in the back of the net from the slot. His shot looks NHL-ready right now.

25. Ottawa Senators: (via Seattle Kraken and Tampa Bay Lightning): Liam Ruck, RW (Medicine Hat Tigers, WHL)

Hmmmmmmmmm…. Could the Senators snag the Ruck twins and bet high on upside? I think the Senators would be thrilled if they could get Ruck here, mostly because they’d be in a perfect spot to snag Markus with their next pick. Liam led all WHL draft eligibles with 45 goals, showing incredible chemistry with his twin brother. Ruck is extremely dangerous around the net with a variety of quality shot choices at his disposal. Without improved skating, though, scouts will continue to be worried about him, though. I expect that to be something Ruck works on this summer, though.

26. New York Rangers (via Dallas Stars): Gleb Pugachyov, RW (Chaika Nizhny Novgorod, MHL)

Pugachyov is definitely someone who could earn some love around here. Pugachyov is a big, 6-foot-3 forward who played well against men even in limited action. He can physically dominate his own age group, and he has done so this year without getting himself into too much trouble. Pugachyov plays a solid two-way game and won’t stop moving, even if he doesn’t have high-end top speed yet. If Pugachyov can find another level to his offensive game, he’ll be a huge get – and if you’re the Rangers, it’s a worthy bet.

27. San Jose Sharks (via Buffalo Sabres): Tommy Bleyl, RHD (Moncton Wildcats, WHL)

Should the Sharks double down on defense? I think so. Bleyl is a highly skilled two-way defender who came out of nowhere to register 81 points as a QMJHL rookie. He’s exceptionally crafty, skates very well and doesn’t let bigger competition bother him. Bleyl plays a calm, collected game defensively while consistently getting himself into scoring lanes in the other zone. Right now, he needs to get stronger – he gets pushed around too often, especially in front of the net. But his mobility and raw hockey sense are definitely there.

28. Montreal Canadiens: J.P. Hurlbert, LW (Kamloops Blazers, WHL)

No CHL rookie was as lethal as Hurlbert this year. He recorded 42 goals and 97 points with Kamloops. He’s an exceptionally skilled forward who, at one point, was so far ahead in the WHL scoring race that nobody was in the same area code. The University of Michigan commit has a great one-touch shot that he routinely unleashes on the power play. He’s also an exceptionally smart puck-mover who has very little difficulty getting it where it needs to be against players his own age. My two pre-season concerns – his play away from the puck and his lack of high-end speed – remain issues. Still, the Canadiens have a good opportunity to bet high on talent here.

29. St. Louis Blues (via Colorado Avalanche): Brooks Rogowski, C (Oshawa Generals, OHL)

I’ve really liked my viewings of Rogowski, one of the best “big dudes” in the draft this year. At 6-foot-7, he’s obviously got size. But I also appreciated how well he hustled at both ends, chasing pucks and breaking up plays. He’s a smart forward who uses his big frame to win battles, but he also has a good shot and isn’t afraid to launch it from anywhere in an attempt to surprise the goaltender. Rogowski won’t be a big-time offensive threat but, as a supporting player, he has a ton of tools to make himself useful. Players who move as well with his size profile are coveted around the NHL.

30. Calgary Flames (via Vegas Golden Knights): Maddox Dagenais, C (Quebec Remparts, QMJHL)

From a fit standpoint, I like this. A lot of Dagenais’ power-forward tendencies come from his bigger frame. But he’s far more than that. He’s a decent skater who battles so hard to win every individual puck battle. Dagenais also loves to keep the puck on his stick. Thanks to his pure muscle, Dagenais is a possession machine, rarely giving the puck up on the rush. Dagenais has a good shot release but tends to choose less-than-ideal locations to fire it off. Still, there’s a ton of upside, and he has experience playing both center and the wing, too.

31. Carolina Hurricanes: Casey Mutryn, RW (USNTDP)

Mutryn was one of my favorite American-born prospects this season. I like his physicality and work ethic and think that could allow him to be a decent third-liner. He’s smart, battles hard and has the ability to find chemistry with just about everyone. Although I don’t think his ceiling is that high, I feel confident Mutryn will be an NHLer. Most likely as a third- or fourth-liner who can grind it out and win most of his battles, but he’ll be a good one at that. He’s the type of guy every team wants come playoff time.

32. Ottawa Senators: Markus Ruck, C (Medicine Hat Tigers, WHL)

I’m not 100% coninced the Senators would target both Ruck twins, but if they snagged Liam with their second pick, I couldn’t see them passing on Markus. Markus is a special playmaker – he works as hard as anyone you’ll find in junior hockey. He loves to do the dirty work to make plays happen, no matter whom he’s looking for on the ice. Ruck has obvious chemistry with his brother but can also dazzle on his own. My biggest concern was how unimpactful he looked during the playoffs – he kept getting pushed around far too much for my liking, and he doesn’t have the top-end skating to burn guys. But there’s a ton of upside, and I love the idea of the Sens drafting the twins and banking on their chemistry.

33. Vancouver Canucks: Jack Hextall, C (Youngstown Phantoms, USHL)

Hextall had multi-point efforts in nearly all my viewings this year, both internationally and domestically, with Youngstown. He was no stranger to dominant performances, showcasing a dynamic skill set with an endless motor. That’s what I love about his game – he won’t be a high-end producer in the NHL, but he can play a variety of roles while being effective. He has a good shot, but he’s even better as a setup guy. On the power play, he doesn’t waste much time blasting shots past goalies. I also think he got better physically as the season wore on. I think he’ll be a solid support player at the next level unless he can figure out how to be more impactful at 5-on-5.

34. Chicago Blackhawks: Nikita Shcherbakov, LHD (Toros Neftekamsk, VHL)

There’s bit a bit of variance in Shcherbakov’s ranking publicly. I think he’ll either go late first or early second. The 6-foot-5 defender started the year in the KHL but has primarily played in the second-tier Russian league since the end of September. He’s strong, but he moves well – which is important for a guy his size. Shcherbakov has definitely grown on me a bit over the past few months, especially after watching him play well against his own age group. His game lacks high-end thinking, and he’ll likely slot in as a third-pairing defender. But he should be a reliable one at that. If he can add some extra offensive juice, I’d be more excited about him, but not every defender needs to be a wizard with the puck – especially when they’re defensively sound like Shcherbakov.

35. New Jersey Devils (via New York Rangers, Utah Mammoth and Calgary Flames): Ryder Cali, C (North Bay Battalion, OHL)

I liked Cali in Jr. A last year – putting up more than 50 points as a 16-year-old in the OJHL is no small feat, even if the competition has diminished over time. But I was hoping to see more from him offensively in North Bay this year. Cali is built like a tank, though, and he puts a ton of power into every shift, with and without the puck. I can see him becoming a solid bottom-six forward if he can improve his playmaking. I considered ranking him lower, but I know some scouts really like him as a long-term project. With an NHL frame and solid hockey sense, there’s something here.

36. Calgary Flames: Tobias Trejbal, G (Youngstown Phantoms, USHL)

Trejbal is the near-consensus top goalie in this draft class, and one I’ve heard could go in the first round. His numbers with the Phantoms have been excellent, and being 6-foot-4 doesn’t hurt, either. The stats don’t lie: the busier Trejbal is, the better he plays. His ability to stay calm and composed under pressure is impressive, and he has quick hands and quicker feet. Trejbal’s athleticism has gotten scouts talking, and his big frame makes him an easy project for a team willing to be patient with the UMass commit. I’ve been impressed with just about all of my viewings of his this year.

37. Chicago Blackhawks (via Toronto Maple Leafs): Simas Ignatavicius, RW (Geneve-Servette, NL)

The Lithuanian winger has drawn a ton of attention from scouts this year. He’s a 6-foot-3 forward having a solid season in Switzerland’s top league and has been downright dominant internationally. Ignatavicius is so versatile, finding so many different ways to impact the play both with and without the puck. He’s good defensively, has a great shot release, has obvious muscle and is incredibly skilled, too. Is Ignatavicius notable because he’s a big dude playing pro hockey? Or is there something truly here? That’s the question.

38. Seattle Kraken: Jakub Vaněček, LHD (Tri-City Americans, WHL)

I like how Vaněček is always moving thanks to a non-stop motor and good overall footwork. He beats opponents by taking their space away and forcing them to the perimeter. Vaněček isn’t too shabby with the puck, although his decision-making needs a bit of work. I like his two-way game and I think he’ll force his way into a bottom-pairing situation one day. Vaněček is more of a long-term project player, but I still think he’s going to be a decent, versatile blueliner.

39. Pittsburgh Penguins (via Winnipeg Jets): Jonas Lagerberg Hoen, RW (Leksands, Sweden U-20)

There are definitely teams that see Lagerberg Hoen going significantly higher than this. JLH is a good shooter who skates well and has a big 6-foot-3 frame. He missed most of the season due to a season-ending injury… in October. But scouts really believe in him because the raw fundamentals are there. He was one that I questioned due to the lack of actual playing time, but scouts really got me interested in the Swede in the latter stages of the season after pointing out just how often he dominated shifts in various ways. I think his hockey sense is iffy – there were some weird passes early on that made you wonder what he was trying to do, and it happened quite frequently. But the raw talent is still very intriguing.

40. Florida Panthers: Juho Piiparinen, RHD (Tappara, Liiga)

The Panthers moved out of the first round, but they probably don’t mind. They could potentially land a player of Piiparinen’s ilk around here. He’s good when he keeps things simple, but he can also rush the puck up the ice and lower the boom when needed. Piiparinen has played decent hockey against men, and his international action has been solid, too. Piiparinen isn’t flashy, but he’s calm and collected in his own zone and is generally reliable defensively. I was hoping to see him put up more offense this season, but his game is more about shutting opponents down with his mobility. He’ll make a good fit alongside someone more offensively minded, and I feel very confident he’ll at least challenge for a bottom-pairing role in the NHL one day.

41. Vancouver Canucks (via San Jose Sharks): Xavier Villeneuve, LHD (Blainville-Boisbriand Armada, QMJHL)

I’m a Villeneuve fan – I think the Canucks should be, too. Villeneuve was one of the best defensemen at the 2025 U-18 World Championship, helping Canada win gold. He had 62 points last season in the Q and would have surpassed that this year if he hadn’t missed about 25 games due to injury. Villeneuve can drive the play from the point and is as good as anyone in this draft class on the man advantage. His confidence is remarkable, too. With three first-rounders, I like the idea of Vancouver betting high on upside (they typically do).

42. Nashville Predators: Dmitri Borichev, G (Lokomotiv, MHL)

The Preds could use another goalie in the system, and Borichev will likely be coming into his own by the time Juuse Saros is ready to wind down (assuming he isn’t traded in the near future). Some consider Borchev to be the best goalie in the draft class. Teams love his 6-foot-3 frame and just how quick he is. He’s positionally sound, using his size to do the hard work. But he has quick enough hands and reflexes to get where he needs to be to make top stops. Notably, he played better when he faced more shots this year, and scouts love it. It’s always hard to judge MHL talent because the league can be a crapshoot at times, but many people love his technical abilities and play reads.

43. Colorado Avalanche (via Columbus Blue Jackets, St. Louis Blues and Pittsburgh Penguins): Adam Goljer, RHD (Dukla Trencin, Slovakia)

I’ve been a Goljer fan for a few years now, and it feels like his U-18 World Championship performance has helped his stock. He’s raw, but that’s fine because there’s some solid upside. At 6-foot-3, he has size. He also plays with a ton of confidence, allowing him to consistently attack and defend strongly against older competition in the top Slovak league. Playing close to 20 minutes a night against men is no small feat for a 17-year-old, no matter the league. I’d like to see him come to North America, but, overall, I think there’s a lot to like about his game, and I’d be taking a chance on him here if I were Colorado. I like him more than many scouts do, for what it’s worth.

44. New Jersey Devils: Rūdolfs Bērzkalns, C (Muskegon Lumberjacks, USHL)

Bērzkalns helped get Muskegon to the USHL playoffs, taking on an even more important role once Tynan Lawrence left for college. The Boston College commit is a big, 6-foot-4 center who played some good two-way hockey at the World Juniors. He isn’t flashy and likely won’t be a big-time producer in the NHL, but he plays with a ton of muscle and took over shifts in ways very few bigger forwards were capable of this year in the USHL. I like him as a fourth-line forward – I think he understands the defensive game well enough to be a solid player. He just… scares opponents in a way very few guys can at this age. I love him.

45. Buffalo Sabres (via New York Islanders and Chicago Blackhawks): Chase Harrington, LW (Spokane Chiefs, WHL)

I feel very confident that Harrington will be an NHLer. He’s built like a rocket launcher – he wants to send you flying any time he can. Harrington is no slouch offensively, either, putting up 56 points in 61 games on a Spokane team that often struggled to generate consistent scoring chances. He’s very dangerous around the net, and he’s flashy, too. I think there’s a clear path for him as an energy forward in the NHL who could step up into a bigger role if needed. Harrington might not have a high ceiling, but he has a decent floor for someone around this spot in the draft.

46. Los Angeles Kings (via Columbus Blue Jackets and Montreal Canadiens): Samu Alalauri, D (Pelicans, Finland U-20)

Alalauri played the most of any Finns at the U-18s, and it was easy to understand why. He had three points against the Slovaks and averaged more than 22 minutes a night (the 10:41 against Canada was an outlier). It felt like he played with significant confidence and thrived in the D zone, rarely making a bad pass. Alalauri still needs to improve his ability to make plays in transition because he can be a bit too timid at times. But I like his skating, puck work and general defensive play.

47. Detroit Red Wings: Niklas Aaram-Olsen, LW (Orebro, Sweden U-20)

Aaram-Olsen always shines internationally, typically playing a big role for Norway across all age groups. He’s a pure goal scorer, and he often can be found dominating his own age group. I love him on the power play, where it feels like he does a good job of cycling the puck and then firing quick one-timers. Against men, though. Aaram-Olsen has left a lot to be desired, and scouts have knocked him for having a lack of high-end tools outside of his shot. If he can play with more pace and learn to dominate play through the middle, he could be a good snag. I like the upside, even if some scouts aren’t as convinced.

48. Florida Panthers (via Washington Capitals): Blake Zielinski, RW (Des Moines Buccaneers, USHL)

Should the Panthers bet high here? When someone recently asked me who I think will become the next Ethan Wyttenbach – a guy who blows expectations out of the water after moving up to the NCAA from the USHL – Zielinski’s name came to mind. And that was before Zielinski took home the Gaudreau Award back in April. Zielinski put up 55 points in 53 games with Des Moines – fantastic numbers, no doubt. I also loved him at both the Hlinka Gretzky Cup and World Junior A Challenge with USA, where he won gold at both. It feels like his two-way game took big steps forward, as well. Zielinski isn’t tall, but he’s physically strong and can be annoying to play against. I think he needs to focus on becoming a better skater, but there’s a lot to like about his game as a potential depth scorer.

49. Los Angeles Kings: Egor Shilov, C (Victoriaville Tigres, QMJHL)

Shilov was one of the QMJHL’s most proficient offensive generators this year. The Tigres finished second last in the West and were ultimately bounced in four games in the playoffs. But Shilov finished the season with 32 goals and 82 points while showing instant chemistry with fellow Russian draft prospect Alexei Vlasov (80 points). Nobody else came close to even reaching 50, so Shilov was exceptionally important. He dominates the puck game, and he’s as skilled as you’ll find in the CHL. There’s no lack of talent here – but he can get caught watching the puck far too often and simply lacks the pace to thrive at the next level. That’ll be a big sticking point for scouts this year.

50. Anaheim Ducks: Zac Olsen, RW (Saskatoon Blades, WHL)

Olsen was one of my favorite WHLers this year – and his opponents cited him as one of the toughest players to go up against in the WHL. He’s smart, nimble and has a powerful wrister he loves to show often. Olsen is a hard-working forward who has really impressed scouts over the past few months with his attention to detail and improved hockey sense. Olsen makes smart decisions with the puck while playing at speed, and he’s a great skater, too. I could see a team molding him into an energy forward who can adapt to various roles.

51: Calgary Flames (via Utah Mammoth): Marcus Nordmark, LW (Djurgarden, Sweden U-20)

The Flames have a stacked pipeline, so they could cheat a little here and take one of the more skilled wingers – but one with big flaws. Nordmark blends high-end skill and hockey sense to create high-quality chances in the offensive zone. He routinely picks apart opponents in his own age group and has been truly dominant internationally. But scouts are worried that he’s a ghost defensively and that if he doesn’t control play offensively, he won’t be good enough to crack the NHL. He has lazy habits that get him into trouble under pressure and it doesn’t feel like he’s taken enough steps forward to fix that throughout the year. So he’s polarizing, which isn’t surprising for a 17-year-old with so much room to grow. I trust Calgary to develop him correctly, though.

52: Edmonton Oilers: Ethan MacKenzie, LHD (Edmonton Oil Kings, WHL)

We know the Oilers had eyes on MacKenzie this year. He was a surprise addition to Canada’s World Junior team, and he didn’t disappoint. It was a solid enough stretch that helped ensure he would be selected this year after being passed over twice. MacKenzie’s ability to win individual battles and shut guys down makes him intriguing. His maturity and hockey sense have really blossomed over time, and he can kill plays and log a lot of minutes if needed (as proven with the Oil Kings).

53: Philadelphia Flyers: Timofei Runtso, LHD (Victoria Royals, WHL)

This just feels like a Flyers pick. Runtso wasn’t on anyone’s radar a year ago while playing with the NAHL’s St. Cloud Norsemen. He played around 15-17 minutes a night early on in the season but ended up playing north of 20 routinely. Runtso recently had a strong showing at the WHL Prospects Game, which definitely helped his stock. The Royals defender has actually been one of the bigger risers in recent months, to the point where a second-round selection is looking much more likely. Runtso’s offensive game continues to improve, and I think it’s because he’s shown a greater willingness to be aggressive on the attack. He’s fearless, and you notice him (positively) nearly every time he hits the ice.

54. Pittsburgh Penguins: Tomas Chrenko, C (HK Nitra, Slovakia)

Chrenko’s international numbers have been excellent. Between his play at the U-18s last year and the World Juniors this season, no draft-eligible Slovak comes close to being as effective at blasting pucks past goaltenders. He also put up 31 points in 44 games in the top Slovak league this year, and while it’s a little lower on the totem pole among European leagues, he still played anywhere from 13 to 20 minutes a night against pros. He’s not big, and some scouts wonder if he’d be better on the wing in the NHL. But as a pure shooter, especially on the power play, there’s a lot to love. Chrenko needs to round his game out a bit more to convince me he’ll be an NHLer, but the talent is definitely there.

55. Calgary Flames (via Ottawa Senators and Utah Mammoth): Ben Macbeath, LHD (Calgary Hitmen, WHL)

Macbeath came out of nowhere this year, registering 51 points in 67 games as a WHL rookie. The 6-foot-2 defender blends size, skill and mobility together to become an absolute force with the puck. Some scouts think the ceiling is high enough to take him in the first round. I’m not there yet because it feels like he can be a bit too passive with his decision-making at times. But as Calgary fought its way to make the playoffs, Macbeath was easily one of its most important players. I think he has a bright future with the potential to be an impact second-pairing defender.

56. Boston Bruins: Måns Gudmundsson, RHD (Farjestad, Sweden U-20)

Gudmundsson’s 6-foot-3 frame is intriguing as a starting point. So what happens when he shows off his puck skills, too? Gudmundsson had 25 points in 35 games at the Swedish U-20 level and had a solid showing en route to a gold at the U-18 World Championship. He’s a good puck mover who looked great on the power play, especially during the Swedish U-20 playoffs. Gudmundsson’s shot lacks power, and he’s not actually that physical for his frame, which is why he’s further down here. But some scouts see a guy who has the tools to become a bottom-pairing option once he bulks up.

57. Nashville Predators (from Minnesota): Rian Chudzinski, RW (Moncton Wildcats, QMJHL)

Teams love guys who can hit and skate – Nashville included. That’s Chudzinski’s game – he’s all about getting in your face and playing with as much pace as possible. Chudzinski played a middle-six role with Moncton and looked solid, especially during the playoffs. He’s there to create energy, but he also scored at a 0.4 goals-per-game rate this season. That’s nothing to sneeze at, especially for a guy who’s projected to be more of a depth guy at the next level. I’m not sure he’s more than that, but it was definitely fun watching Chudzinski battle like his life depended on it during the QMJHL playoffs.

58. Tampa Bay Lightning: Matias Vanhanen, LW (Everett Silvertips, WHL)

The Bolts love their small Finns. Vanhanen was one of the WHL’s premier setup guys this year, showing excellent heads-up hockey sense every time he hit the ice. If it wasn’t for him, Everett’s offense would be significantly less lethal – Vanhanen seemed to be the primary play producer. There’s no question he’ll get drafted in his second year of eligibility, but scouts aren’t completely sure what type of player he’ll be at the next level. He lacks any sort of physical play, and he’s not all too quick, either. But, man, his puck play is truly remarkable, and he showed it off at the Memorial Cup.

59: Dallas Stars: Ryan Roobroeck, LW (Niagara IceDogs, OHL)

Roobroeck’s combination of size (6-foot-4, 216 pounds) and goal-scoring prowess makes him incredibly intriguing. You don’t find many forwards who can command a play like he can at his absolute best, especially after producing at a high level throughout most of his career. But for a guy his size, he often lacks the intensity required to be a true difference-maker. Few players with Roobroeck’s level of talent fall asleep as frequently on plays, and it’s a shame. At the very least, Roobroeck should be able to excel on the power play, and he’s good as a net-front presence. But scouts are worried about his work ethic on the ice, which is why he’ll fall. Regardless, I think there’s still some significant upside here.

60: Toronto Maple Leafs (via Buffalo Sabres, Ottawa Senators and Los Angeles Kings): Alexander Bilecki, LHD (Kitchener Rangers, OHL)

Bilecki was a big reason why the Rangers went the distance in the OHL. The 6-foot-2 defender showed some decent offensive upside this year while showing a level of fearlessness that few defenders in the OHL displayed this year. He boasts impressive mobility and creative playmaking instincts. It feels like he has some room to grow as a puck-mover, but many scouts think he’s going to be a solid bottom-pairing defender.

61: Montreal Canadiens: Liam Lefebvre, C (Chicoutimi Saguenéens, QMJHL)

This isn’t because of the French connection (but that doesn’t hurt). I just like the fit, period. Lefebvre was traded to Chicoutimi this year and helped the team win the QMJHL title. Lefebvre was then one of the better players at the Memorial Cup, registering at least one point in his first three games. At 6-foot-3 and more than 200 pounds, Lefebvre plays with a ton of pressure. He’s an average skater, but he works and plays a strong checking game. Scouts have noticed more skill out of him in recent months than they first thought, and he’s a solid goal-scorer, too.

62: San Jose Sharks (via Colorado Avalanche): Jaxon Cover, RW (London Knights, OHL)

The Sharks are close to completing the rebuild, so they can bet high on Cover here. The Cayman Islands native quickly established himself as one of the most intriguing prospects, finishing the OHL regular season with 20 goals and 52 points. Cover is one of the rawest prospects in the draft, having only started playing ice hockey at the age of 13. So the fact that he has been so productive with the puck and so dangerous without it has really excited scouts. He’s so quick, using his speed to force turnovers and break into scoring lanes. He’s creative, and as long as he continues to work on the smaller details in his game, he’ll be a solid prospect.

63: Vegas Golden Knights: Pick forfeited

Oh well.

64: New York Rangers (via Carolina Hurricanes): Jonah Sivertson, RW (Prince Albert Raiders, WHL)

Sivertson is coming off a solid 24-goal, 53-point campaign with Prince Albert. He’s a big, 6-foot-3 forward who doesn’t get pushed around easily. His consistency is still a work in progress, but his skating has taken nice steps forward over the past year. I also like how intense he made every single shift during the WHL playoffs. There’s a solid power forward build here, and it feels like he’ll be a decent pickup here for the Stars.

65. Calgary Flames (via Vancouver Canucks): Charlie Morrison, LHD (Quebec Ramparts, QMJHL)

There isn’t much to Morrison’s offensive game worth getting excited about. Instead, he has built a profile based on being the toughest dude around. He’s a strong skater who isn’t afraid of anything. He played big minutes right away with Quebec as a rookie, showing solid reliability in his own zone. He won’t wow anyone with his puck skills, but he consistently makes himself difficult to play against while keeping his game simple overall. I wouldn’t be surprised to see him go earlier in the second round because of his frame and his lust for winning

66. Chicago Blackhawks: Giorgos Pantelas, RHD (Brandon Wheat Kings, WHL)

Pantelas was one of the WHL’s most electric defenders earlier in the season but ultimately quieted down with just two assists in his final 15 games between the regular season and the playoffs. Still, there’s enough to like about him – he’s a smart kid. I like how Pantelas never stops moving, has incredible confidence with the puck and sacrifices his body for a play. Pantelas is the type of player who won’t let you down defensively and will continue to improve offensively. He’s a project, by all accounts, but one worth taking a chance on.

67. New York Rangers: Victor Plante, LW (USNTDP)

Plante is a bit undersized and lacks the muscle to be reliable on the boards. But he processes the game at such a high level. His brothers were two of the best playmakers in the NCAA this year – and Victor is set to join the family party at the University of Minnesota-Duluth next year, too. The two-way winger makes up for his smaller frame by being consistently engaged in the offensive zone. He never stops moving and often forces opponents to give the puck away by applying constant pressure. Plante doesn’t have many glaring flaws, but he doesn’t truly excel anywhere, either, and that might be what pushes him down draft boards. I have liked the majority of my viewings of Plante the past two years, though.

68. Calgary Flames: Egor Barabanov, LW (Saginaw Spirit, OHL)

The Flames need offense, and Barabonov might be a good fit here. One of the more notable re-entry prospects, Barabanov was an absolute delight to watch in Saginaw this year. Barabanov plays with a boatload of skill. He has quick hands and is always scanning for passing lanes, but he knows when he needs to shoot the puck himself, too. Barabanov does a solid job of exploiting open space, and he’s getting better defensively, too. He has always had talent, but the results are finally starting to follow – and it’s hard not to adore the nastiness in his game, either.

69. Toronto Maple Leafs: Luke Schairer, RHD (USNTDP)

Schairer has the ideal size for a defender at 6-foot-3 and nearly 200 pounds. He does a good job of breaking up plays and keeping the puck away from the net. But that’s really all he seems to do – the two-way game just simply isn’t there right now. I just want to see his game evolve in a way that makes him more dynamic and dangerous. I think he’ll be an NHLer, especially since he’s a good skater. But he just doesn’t wow me like I was hoping he would after watching him excel with the U-17 team. At this point in the draft, Toronto wasn’t going to find a better offensive defenseman, so I like this choice.

70. Nashville Predators (via Seattle Kraken and Dallas Stars): Adam Valentini, C (University of Michigan, NCAA)

I love Valentini’s game, and the Preds should, too. Valentini is so energetic that he can chase the whole game without losing much pace. He can be a bit of a pain in the ass around the net because you can almost never keep up with his footwork. I like how his game has progressed in college, but he needs to add more muscle. With the puck, though, Valentini brings so much to the table. I’m not worried about his ability to create damage with the puck on his stick. But is he versatile enough? Is he too small? Always bet high on skill.

71. Winnipeg Jets: Jakub Floriš, RHD (Lukko, Finland U-20)

You usually know what you’re getting from Floriš every time he hits the ice. He’s a well-rounded blueliner who won’t wow you with his offensive game but can shut you down defensively. His skating is impressive and I love how physical he is along the boards. He plays a suffocating style that gives you little room to work with. Floriš’ play reads need some work – notably, he looks lost a bit in the offensive zone – but it felt like I was more impressed with every viewing this year. At the very least, look for Floriš to play some heavy minutes for Slovakia internationally over the next few seasons.

72. Ottawa Senators (via Florida Panthers): Thomas Vandenberg, C (Ottawa 67s, OHL)

The Sens need centers, and they wouldn’t have to look far for this one. Vandenberg is one of the youngest players in the draft, having been born about a week before the Sept. 15 cutoff date. But scouts really like the undersized center because he thinks the game at such a high level. He’s not a good skater and he struggles physically, but he makes up for it with quick, heads-up breakout passes and stout defensive play. I love how many individual stick battles he tends to win. Fortunately, skating is one of the easiest fundamentals to fix, and if he can add a bit more speed, he could reasonably become a decent fourth-liner in the NHL.

73. St. Louis Blues (from San Jose Sharks, Pittsburgh Penguins and Detroit Red Wings): Vladimír Dravecký, RHD (Brantford Bulldogs, OHL)

We know the Blues like Czech defenders – Adam Jiricek is damn good, and they nearly acquired Radim Mrtka. I really like Dravecký when he’s rushing the puck, or getting tasked with late-game, energy-filled shutdown situations. He seems to play better the more he skates, and he defends the rush well. There isn’t anything spectacular about Dravecký’s game, but he’s stable at both ends and doesn’t take many unnecessary risks. I think Dravecký will be a safe pick, but one who probably tops out as a third-pair, defensively responsible option.

74. Colorado Avalanche (from Nashville Predators): Adam Andersson, C (Leksands, Sweden U-20)

Andersson really grew on me during the U-18s. Between killing penalties and some overall solid two-way play, Andersson looked on his game at that event. He’s a tough dude who plays a refined two-way game with his big 6-foot-4 frame. Scouts like him because of his versatility and two-way reliability. You won’t fall in love with his puck game neccesarily, but he’s a hard-working forward who should be able to carve out a role deeper in the lineup.

75. St. Louis Blues: Brek Liske, RHD (Everett Silvertips, WHL)

Liske was a big reason why Everett won the WHL title. The 6-foot-2 defender is strong, stable, and really came alive during the championship series, where he had at least one point in four of the five games against Prince Albert. His best game might have been the opener – the lone game he failed to snag a point, ironically. Liske reads plays well and is definitely creative with the puck. While Landon DuPont was more of the dominant two-way presence on Everett, Liske had enough skill with the puck to consistently give his opponents fits. His skating is a limiting factor right now, though – if he can find another gear with his footwork, he could be a sneaky good pick.

76. St. Louis Blues (from New Jersey Devils and New York Islanders): Brady Knowling, G (USNTDP)

The Blues have drafted a bit of everything so far at this point, so it’s time to take a chance on a goalie with a high ceiling. Knowling had a good season with the USNTDP this year and even made his World Junior debut. The Boston University goaltender has a big 6-foot-5 frame, but he’s quick for his size, too. The Toronto-born prospect is the No. 1-ranked North American goaltender according to NHL Central Scouting, with scouts noting that he commands the crease without giving up too many costly rebounds. Not every scout is fully sold on him, especially with passive hands that often lag behind when he moves crease-to-crease. He allows too many weak goals for my liking, too.

77. New York Rangers (via New York Islanders): Carter Casey, G (Medicine Hat Tigers, WHL)

This is where I can see the run on goalies begin. Casey’s surface numbers weren’t great, but I actually see Casey’s high-end potential here. He’s one of the most athletic goaltenders in the draft, never giving up on a play, no matter what. He can get a bit overzealous and allow some weak goals from time to time, but an NHL goaltending coach can help reel him in a bit. I like his glove hand, and he does a good job of giving shooters little to shoot at. There’s a ton of talent here – but the consistency needs work. If you’re the Rangers – who have Shesterkin leading the charge in the long run – you’re willing to be patient to bring in a guy with starter potential.

78. Vancouver Canucks (via Columbus Blue Jackets): Nils Bartholdsson, RW (Rogle, Sweden U-20)

Bartholdsson has an excellent shot and I love how well he skates. That combination allowed him to dominate shifts at the Swedish U-20 level, and he was especially good in open space on the power play. Bartholdsson was more of a secondary scorer at the U-18s, but he was one of the better players in his age group this year. My biggest concern was it felt like he often struggled with players even two inches taller than him – if he couldn’t beat them with his pure footwork, he couldn’t deal with them physically to make up for it.

79. Detroit Red Wings: Lavr Gashilov, C (Yekaterinburg, MHL)

Gashilov was the most productive draft-eligible prospect in the MHL by a country mile. The puck seems to be glued to him – and he’s an excellent playmaker, to boot. His speed is impressive, and he’s a solid 200-foot player. By all accounts, he has the base to become a true difference-maker – but he seems allergic to physical play, which is difficult to watch out of a 6-foot-2 forward. His shot needs work, too, but that can be fixed at the next level. I could see him as a decent bottom-six forward.

80. Los Angeles Kings (via Washington Capitals and Ottawa Senators): Oscar Holmertz, C (Linköping HC, Sweden U-20)

Holmetz has played at just about every level possible in Sweden this year, including the SHL. He didn’t get much ice time with the big club, but it felt like playing against pros forced him to add another level of urgency to his game whenever he was sent back to junior. He posted strong numbers with Linköping’s U-20 squad and has been a reliable two-way threat internationally. I think he’s most impactful as a support guy you can depend on to kill plays in the D-zone, but I’m not sure he’s skilled enough to have a profound role at the next level. There’s third-line center potential here, though.

81. New York Rangers (via Los Angeles Kings): Landon Amrhein, RW (Calgary Hitmen, WHL)

Amrhein’s numbers won’t bring you out of your seat. But as a complete package, Amrhein has so much going for him. He’s an excellent playmaker, but he’s even better as an off-puck supporting winger. At 6-foot-5, Amrhein takes a lot of physical punishment to make sure his linemates get the puck. He also has flashes of offensive skill that allowed him to push himself up Calgary’s lineup all season long. There’s a lot of projectables here, but I’d like to see a bit more consistency with the puck.

82. Anaheim Ducks: Landon Nycz, LHD (UMass, NCAA)

When watching Nycz, his mobility is the first thing that stands out. The former Waterloo Black Hawks prospect isn’t going to wow you with his offense – three points in 34 games won’t excite you all too much. His ice time has fluctuated quite a bit this year – he frequently played fewer than 10 minutes a night but also skated in as high as 19-20 on multiple occasions. Defensively, he’s solid, but it felt like he was often sheltered from tougher opponents. In flashes, Nycz has the athletic ability to be a difference-maker. I do wonder if he should have spent another year in the USHL before making the move to college, but I think he’s a decent project.

83. Utah Mammoth: Mikey Berchild, LW (USNTDP)

The Mammoth are known for selecting big dudes, but they need some skill in the system. If Berchild – a 5-foot-9 forward – is still around, it might be worth taking a chance on him, especially since the Mammoth have a solid pipeline already. If he can spend the next few years bulking up, he might be able to outplay the size concerns. I want to see him keep getting pucks on net because when he’s on his game, he can be so lethal. Game-to-game consistency and play-reading remain issues here. There’s still a lot of skill here, but I’m not sure what type of player he’ll be at the next level.

84. Edmonton Oilers: Harrison Boettiger, G (Kelowna Rockets, WHL)

Boettiger has had to steal more than his fair share of games with Kelowna this year. He prides himself on his ability to stay focused under pressure. That’s something he had to deal with often early in his major junior career. His hockey sense and active hands – keeping them up in front to take space away – are as good as you’ll find in this draft class. I also like how quick his footwork can be, even if it’s a little inconsistent. Boettiger has a chance to be USA’s starting goalie at the World Juniors next season, so get prepared to hear a lot more about him over the next few years.

85. Toronto Maple Leafs (from Philadelphia Flyers): Pierce Mbuyi, LW (Owen Sound Attack, OHL)

Mbuyi has grown a bit over the past year, eliminating the “he’s way too small” conversation. He still hasn’t bulked up by any means, but he plays an aggressive game and isn’t afraid to battle much bigger competition. The Penn State commit loves creating chances on the breakaway, and he rarely loses a 1-on-1 battle in the offensive zone. I’d like to see some improved game-to-game consistency, and I feel like he can shoot more. But the talent is definitely there, and he’s already very multi-faceted. The numbers are solid, too.

86. Pittsburgh Penguins: Adam Nemec, LW (Sudbury Wolves, OHL)

I’m still not sure what to think about Nemec. On one hand, he’s a solid two-way forward who started to find his game in the latter stages of the season. Sudbury was swept in four games during the playoffs, but Nemec was easily the team’s top player. On the other hand, I’m not sure what type of player he’ll be in the NHL. He could be used in defensive roles, and he has some obvious hockey sense. I’m not sure he’s great at anything, though, and that could hold him back. Still, I think he could be an interesting pick by Pittsburgh here.

87. Ottawa Senators: Alan Shaikhlislamov, RW (Tolpar Ufa, MHL)

Shaikhlislamov was one of the bigger risers out of Russia this year. He had a solid 18 goals and 35 points in the MHL, often serving as Ufa’s top offensive threat. Shaikhlislamov is a decent skater who never stops moving, and while he’s not huge, he hits hard with ease. He’s a bit selfish with the puck, though, and that hasn’t seemed to change over the past two years. If Shaikhlislamov can figure out how to rely on his teammates a bit more, he’ll be a decent third-round pick.

88. Boston Bruins: Noel Pakarinen, RW (Kiekko-Espoo, Finland U-20)

Pakarinen’s numbers won’t wow you, especially internationally. What will, however, are his work ethic and non-stop motor. Pakarinen puts a ton of power into his shots, and he loves games with a lot of physical contact. Scouts like his playmaking abilities and how he rarely makes a poor decision when trying to get the puck out of the zone. I’m not sure he’s rounded enough for the NHL, but I can see him getting a shot as a fourth-liner you can rely on to throw a big hit.

89. Minnesota Wild: Jayden Kurtz, RHD (Chicago Steel, USHL)

Taking a Minnesota high school player is a little on the nose here, but it fits the team’s organizational needs. Kurtz was a tough customer to beat, whether it be in high school or with the Steel. He was often tasked with shutting down opponents and rarely looked out of place. I like his shot, and he moves well for a 6-foot-3 player. He seemed to really understand how to maximize his play down the stretch with the Steel, and I think he has what it takes to be a decent shutdown defender.

90. Tampa Bay Lightning: Olivers Mūrnieks, C (Saint John Sea Dogs, QMJHL)

Mūrnieks represented Latvia at the U-18s for the third season, and he was easily one of the most noticeable forwards every night. Latvia didn’t have much going for it offensively (despite making it to the medal round), but Mūrnieks was the team’s premier setup guy. He makes many smart passes, and he’s great in the faceoff dot, too. Murnieks deserves love for his two-way game, and he’s a play driver on a team like Latvia. Without him, the Latvians would have struggled to even make the playoffs. Scouts are still worried that Mūrnieks isn’t spectacular at anything, and his jack-of-all-trades approach (mixed in with a subpar shot) could hold him back from a good NHL career.

91. Ottawa Senators (via Dallas Stars, Carolina Hurricanes and Los Angeles Kings): Beckett Hamilton, C (Red Deer Rebels, WHL)

Hamilton is a mid-sized forward who has received a ton of love in the scouting community this year. That’s because of his extremely productive campaign in Red Deer – 24 goals and 62 points in 67 games on a team that just made the playoffs is nothing to sneeze at. He gets a ton of shots on net, and he plays with solid pace, too. I like his game in transition, and he plays with so much pace. Hamilton was a top-line player with Red Deer, but I liked his energetic style of play more with Canada on the U-18 team.

92. New York Rangers (via Buffalo Sabres): Cooper Williams, C (Saskatoon Blades, WHL)

Williams does a lot away from the puck. He can shoot, but he’s better at chasing after guys and forcing turnovers. His shot can be deceptive, forcing defenders to make quicker decisions than they’d probably like. I think his true value at the next level will be his two-way game, but if he can unlock some speed and more fluidity in his stride, I could see him becoming a nice bottom-six NHL threat. Teams like guys who can shine in lesser roles while stepping up when needed – Williams fits the bill.

93. Montreal Canadiens: Axel Elofsson, RHD (Orebro, Sweden U-20)

Elofsson has intrigued me for a few years now. He’s truly one of the most fascinating puck-movers in this draft class – he reminds me of Lane Hutson, but without the elite-level skating and hockey sense. But with the puck, Elofsson is outstanding. The numbers have been incredible in both domestic and international competition. When he’s at his best, he can lead the power play and create quality chances through traffic. He’s very elusive with the puck overall. Defensively, though, he needs work, and he’s undersized at 5-foot-11. He has to limit the giveaways, too. Still, I’d take a chance on him because the upside is high.

94. Columbus Blue Jackets (via Colorado Avalanche and Minnesota Wild): Noa Ta’amu, LHD (Edmonton Oil Kings)

At 6-foot-2 and nearly 230 pounds, Ta’amu is an absolute beast. He’s so physically strong, and even dropped the gloves against 6-foot-7 Sean Burick at the WHL Top Prospects Game. Ta’amu is more than just a burly dude: he’s defensively responsible and uses his brute force to push opponents to the outside. I think he’s fine with the puck, and while his numbers are nothing to get excited about, Ta’amu makes up for it with his play away from it. Ta’amu’s bread and butter is about getting in the way and breaking up plays, and I think he’s great at it.

95. Vegas Golden Knights: Callum Croskery, LHD (Soo Greyhounds, OHL)

Croskery was often outshone by Reid this year, but Croskery is still an interesting prospect. His gap control is often excellent, and his two-way play has made nice strides. Nothing about his numbers are too exciting, but he’s a competitive force on the back end who doesn’t seem to be afraid of anyone. I actually really liked his play at the U-18s, especially later in the tournament. Scouts are a bit mixed about Croskery’s play, but nobody will deny his raw talent or puck skills.

96. Utah Mammoth (via Cartolina Hurricanes): Patriks Plūmiņš (Zemgale, Latvia)

You always have to be a bit careful when boosting a goaltender following a late-season tournament. But, honestly, many could have expected Plūmiņš’ incredible showing at the U-18 World Championship. He earned some MVP honors after leading the team to the bronze medal game, with his 43-save effort against the United States, in particular, being one of the top moments. From a fundamental standpoint, Plūmiņš’ game is fascinating. While a lot of goalies find themselves scrambling when the pressure gets high at this level, Plūmiņš kept himself calm, cool and collected and rarely allowed a bad goal. Plūmiņš does struggle a bit while screened, though, which is a bit concerning for a 6-foot-3 goaltender. His athleticism makes up for it a lot of the time, though.

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