Oilers Nail It!

1. Edmonton Oilers-Nail Yakupov-Forward

  Nail Yakupov made an immediate impact in the OHL in the 2010-11, setting franchise marks in both goals and points for the Sarnia Sting. Despite facing injury this past season, Yakupov tallied a tremendous 69 points in 42 games. He is a dynamic offensive player, who combines great ice vision with a knack for creating quality offensive chances. Yakupov has one of the best shots in the draft class, and his great hands allow him to manipulate the puck in a variety of ways to fool both opposing defensemen and goaltenders. His strength on his skates and his shiftiness on the ice will also help him at the next level. Yakupov tends to float back to the defensive zone and will need to improve his play away from the puck if he is to become a star in the league. Despite this, there are no questions about Yakupov’s game-breaking ability and for that reason he is regarded as the top prospect in the draft. He'll be joining an Oilers' core that's full of promising young forwards.

  2. Columbus Blue Jackets-Ryan Murray-Defenseman

  Ryan Murray has the skill, character, and hockey sense that every team looks for, making him the top defenseman prospect in a loaded class. His talent is noticeable, as he became the youngest player since Paul Kariya to be selected for Team Canada for the World Junior Championship. He surprised some scouts by registering 46 points in 70 games in his first season with Everett. However, even if he doesn't become a point-producer NHL, he still has the ability to be the puck-moving, quick transitional defenseman every team covets. Murray is not a physical player, but he is the strongest positional defenseman in the draft, which points to his high hockey sense. Scouts compare him to Scott Niedermayer, and by factoring in his character and talent they might not be too far off. He is captain material and should fit nicely into the future plans of the Jackets.

  3. Montreal Canadiens-Alex Galchenyuk-Forward

  This marks Habs GM Marc Bergevin's first selection with the team. After an extremely promising 2010-11 campaign, Alex Galchenyuk suffered an unfortunate ACL tear in the 2011 preseason. He fought his way back for the final two games of the regular season and playoffs, but clearly wasn't in top form. Despite the downgrade in play, Galchenyuk impressed scouts with his willingness to battle through his rehabilitation and return to the ice after many thought his season was over. Looking at his 2010-11 tape, Galchenyuk shows an incredible playmaking ability similar to Marian Hossa. He has high-end puck skills and is effective at top-speed. His quick decision-making is unmatched by many of the top prospects and he owns likely the best snapshot in the draft. Galchenyuk is also an above-average defender, willing to throw his solid frame into opponents, while keeping an active stick in passing lanes. Montreal has been searching for a big center for years so their hope is that he is the guy.

  4. N.Y. Islanders-Griffin Reinhart-Defenseman

  Griffin Reinhart is one of the more physically intimidating players in the draft. At 6’4, Reinhart uses his big body to smother forwards who try to maneuver around him. Reinhart is a great catalyst for the offense leaving his defensive zone, and he possesses a solid point shot. He doesn’t have the highest ceiling among the defencemen in this draft class, but he will likely be a very good addition to any blueline in need of a steady two-way defenseman. The Islanders already had a good core of forwards, but with Reinhart and the recent acquisition of blueliner Lubomir Visnovsky, they're turning into a well-rounded squad.

  5. Toronto Maple Leafs-Morgan Rielly-Defenseman

  Another player with his season cut short due to an ACL injury, Morgan Rielly showed flashes of offensive brilliance in the 18 games he played for Moose Jaw. Rielly likes to lead the rush and couples his top-end skating ability with a quick read and react game. He has the rare ability to dictate the pace of the game, much like Erik Karlsson, and possesses tremendous puck-handling ability. Scouts are also surprised with his defensive play, as he is ahead of the curve for a prototypical puck-moving defenseman. Rielly must continue improving his strength if he is to make an impact in the NHL sooner rather than later. There is no doubt, however, that he possesses the skills to flourish at the next level. He should help the Leafs transition game and quarterback their power play in the future.

  6. Anaheim Ducks-Hampus Lindholm-Defenseman

  Hampus Lindholm's development in the past year has caught the eyes of scouts and NHL teams alike. He is a great puck-moving defenseman who excels in the transition game. While he's not exactly like fellow countryman Erik Karlsson, he makes strong, accurate passes and processes the game well under pressure. He has good size, but isn't very physical. He should improve his work along the boards and his ability to separate his man from the puck. Overall, he's a strong prospect whose development should excite whichever team drafts him. To some, the Ducks "reached" a bit for Lindholm but after trading away Lubomir Visnovsky, an already-thin blueline corps needed more to work with. The future's looking brighter there already.

  7. Minnesota Wild-Matthew Dumba-Defenseman

  Matthew Dumba is a high-motor defenseman with a strong competitive spirit. Despite being undersized, he is one of the most physical players in the prospect pool. He is known for his devastating open-ice hits, which helped energize his Red Deer teammates throughout the season. Dumba played big minutes for the Rebels and showcased his offensive skillset by tallying 57 points in 69 games. Another plus is that he may have the best point shot in the class. However, some scouts worry about his size and whether his style of play will translate to the NHL where he will compete against bigger and faster players. Some are also worried about his lack of defensive zone awareness, as he often gambles on the big hit. It would be a surprise if he makes the Wild's team out of training camp.

  8. Pittsburgh Penguins (from Carolina)-Derrick Pouliot-Defenseman

  Derrick Pouliot is one of the best skaters in the draft. He doesn't have elite speed, but his balance and ability to change direction are unmatched by most. His tremendous poise helps him excel at skating the puck out of trouble. Pouliot also has offensive upside evidenced by his 59 points in 72 games with Portland this season. His skating ability allows him to lead the rush and he almost always makes the right first-pass. He even contributed on special teams, leading the power play unit for his club. However, Pouliot must continue to work on his defensive game, while adding more strength and muscle to his frame. Nevertheless, he's produced at all levels he has competed in and will be a nice addition to the Penguins' back end.

  9. Winnipeg Jets-Jacob Trouba-Defenseman

  Jacob Trouba is a true project. He has all the physical tools NHL organizations are looking for, while being a great skater. He has a heavy point shot with the potential of playing on the power play at the next level. He is very difficult to knock off the puck, a testament to his physicality and athleticism. However, his decision making with the puck must improve. He has the physical ability to shut down opposing forwards, but further experience will help him progress in the defensive zone. Trouba’s raw ability and high upside alone will get him drafted fairly high. The Jets could really use a little bit of everything in their system and while they could've used some scoring flair, Trouba fits the mold of a punishing defenseman.

  10. Tampa Bay Lightning-Slater Koekkoek-Defenseman

  Slater Koekkoek is another player in the second-tier of defensemen in the draft, but he still remains a solid blueline prospect due to his raw talent. Before his season was cut short due to a shoulder injury, he was one of the top scoring defensemen in the OHL. He was used on the power play and has a good point shot. He likes joining the rush rather than make the first pass, but he doesn't have the best puck skills. He needs to improve his quickness and turns on the ice, as he tends to lose body position on the defensive end. It's definitely a surprise that he went this early in the draft.

 

  11. Washington Capitals (from Colorado)-Filip Forsberg-Forward

  The selection originally belonged to Colorado, but it was acquired by the Capitals as part of the Semyon Varlamov deal. Filip Forsberg leads the European list of prospects, and is one of the most complete players in the entire draft. He has good size and he can play in every aspect of the game. He is extremely versatile, and is effective in both the open-ice and along the boards. He had an impressive season with Leksand, often playing against men much older than him. Forsberg is dangerous in the offensive zone, combining his creative instinct with a lethal shot. He modeled his game growing up around Peter Forsberg, though the two share no relation. He still needs to improve his defensive zone awareness, but he has the skillset to become a very good two-way player. Scouts often compare him to Corey Perry. As he gains more strength and improves his overall speed, he should become a player to be reckoned with at the NHL level.

  12. Buffalo Sabres-Mikhail Grigorenko-Forward

  There are no questions about Mikhail Grigorenko’s offensive prowess. He has great size and his deceptive speed allow hims to enter offensive zones with ease. Grigorenko is also a terrific passer, sending pucks through tight windows. He has the rare ability to create scoring chances for teammates even when offensive chances look squandered. Questions arise among scouts about Grigorenko’s defensive game and his will to win. When Grigorenko isn’t producing offensively, it seems to affect his defensive effort. That being said, the Sabres have been searching for talent at the center position for a long time and acquired Cody Hodgson and Grigorenko in a calendar year.

  13. Dallas Stars-Radek Faksa-Forward

  Radek Faksa had a wonderful rookie season with the Kitchener Rangers, leading OHL rookies with 67 points in 62 games. He has a large frame and is a very smooth skater. He is one of the few prospects who understand how to use his size to his advantage. Scouts love his hard-working attitude and his knack for leading by example. He will be a strong leader in any NHL dressing room. He is great on the back check and his physical nature helps him win one-on-one battles along the boards. He is one of the more safe picks in the draft and has the potential to have an Eric Staal like impact. This is a solid pick by the Dallas Stars at this stage of the draft.

  14. Buffalo Sabres (from Calgary)-Zemgus Girgensons-Forward

  Zemgus Girgensons is one of the most determined prospects on the ice. His willingness to play in traffic and his will to control the puck is engaing. He has power forward potential, combining solid puck skills with a big shot. He produced more than a point per game, but isn’t known to be the best playmaker. He may be better served as a winger at the next level where he can battle along the boards. Girgensons physicality on the defensive end frustrates opposing players as well as being strong on the back check. With further development, Girgensons has the potential to be a top-six forward in the league and he adds more size down the middle for the Sabres as the highest drafted Latvian-born player ever.

  15. Ottawa Senators-Cody Ceci-Defenseman

  Cody Ceci jumped up scouts’ draft boards throughout the season, and finds himself in the top ten in the final rankings. He is very strong on the puck and makes accurate passes, notably on his outlets out of the defensive zone. One of Ceci’s assets is his big right-handed shot, coveted by NHL organizations. He certainly has the potential to play on special team units at the next level. He has a solid understanding of defensive zone positioning, but at times does not use his size to his advantage. He needs to become more physical to become a better one-on-one defender. Ceci is known to be one the most NHL-ready blueliners in the draft, so it might not take long for Ottawa to soak in its future on the backend with Ceci and Erik Karlsson. He'll be popular with Sens fans off the bat, too.

  16. Washington Capitals-Tom Wilson-Forward

  Perhaps the draft’s most intimidating force, Tom Wilson is a true power forward who uses his elite size to bother opponents. He is a tough kid and a natural leader. However, injuries have haunted his development and he has yet to play a full season in the OHL. Wilson has offensive upside as his strength and size allow him to drive the net at will. However, he lacks the ability to create his own chances because he doesn’t possess great puck skills. Moreover, he’s an average skater and doesn’t excel on the defensive end. It will probably be at least a couple years before we'll know if he'll have any fantasy value with the Capitals.

  17. San Jose Sharks-Tomas Hertl-Forward

  One of the more unorthodox skaters in the draft, Tomas Hertl makes up for these deficiencies by having great hockey sense. He has a solid frame and is strong on the puck down low. He was a consistent contributor in the Czech men's league because he has the size and strength to compete at that level. He likes pursuing the puck and sees the ice well. Hertl is steady on the defensive side, understanding positioning and using his body effectively. Scouts were surprised with his strong effort at the World Junior Championships, with some believing that he outplayed teammate Radek Faksa. As long as he improves his speed and skating ability, he should turn into a nice piece at center for the Sharks.

  18. Chicago Blackhawks-Teuvo Teravainen-Forward

  Despite his small frame, Teuvo Teravainen might be the best pure playmaker aside from Yakupov in the draft. Scouts love his superior hockey sense. He is one of the few prospects that can create space from defenders by using his exceptional puck skills and agility. At just 165 lbs, he played with men much more physically mature than him but it didn’t stop him from manufacturing offense. Still, he must add strength if he hopes to compete with bigger NHL players. His defensive game isn’t polished and he needs to improve his decision-making without the puck. Considering the staggering young offensive talent already on Chicago's roster, this is an example of the rich getting richer. That being said, he might have to wait a little while for that to happen.

  19. Tampa Bay Lightning (from Detroit)-Andrei Vasilevski-Goalie

  Coupled with his great size, Andrei Vasilevski is very athletic with great balance and flexibility in his crease. He prefers to stay upright in net before being forced to drop to his pads. However, he is still very effective in the butterfly. He does a good job of taking away angles and challenging shooters. He is probably the best goaltender in the prospect pool at controlling rebounds. Vasilevski played very well for Team Russia at the World Junior Championships even though he was pulled in the semifinal against Canada and didn’t start the gold medal game. If Vasilevski decides to play in North America, expect him to develop into a consistent number one goaltender at the next level. Between drafting Vasilevski and trading for Anders Lindback, the Lightning have done a lot to make their goaltending situation look far better for years to come.

  20. Philadelphia Flyers-Scott Lahghton-Forward

  Scott Laughton is a high character player who is willing to do whatever it takes to win. He's slightly undersized but he's a smart player who gets in the right position in the offensive end. He tends to look to distribute too often instead of trusting his shot. He is a tough player who is willing to drop the gloves to energize his team. His skating needs some improvement as he lacks the speed to separate from defenders. Laughton can be trusted in the defensive zone since he has a good understanding of positioning. He may not become a consistent scorer at the next level, but he projects to be a solid two-way forward if he can add some bulk, which should help the Flyers shut down the opposition when he's ready to make the jump to the NHL.

 

    21. Calgary Flames (from Buffalo via Nashville)-Mark Janowski

  Mark Jankowski has some hockey roots, but it didn't help him draw a ton of attention - at least from a first-round perspective. He's six-foot-two but just 170 lbs. so he'll probably take quite a while to make it to the NHL level. One thing he does have is scoring instincts, however, particularly when it comes to passing. Time will tell if Flames GM Jay Feaster ends up looking shrewd or silly by making this pick.

  22. Pittsburgh Penguins-Olli Maatta-Defenseman

  At 16, Olli Maatta was the youngest player ever selected to compete for Finland at the World Junior Championships. Having played pro hockey in Finland before joining the London Knights for the 2011-12 season, Maatta has experience playing at a higher level that not many prospects possess. This maturity is reflected in his game. He is known for being a responsible defenseman with the puck and for making smart decisions out of the defensive zone. Scouts became more intrigued with Maatta’s offensive upside once he began leading the powerplay for the Knights towards the end of the season. Along with Brian Dumoulin, the Penguins have been loading up on defensemen in the early portion of the draft.

  23. Florida Panthers-Michael Matheson-Defenseman

  While his offensive numbers may not catch scouts' eyes, Michael Matheson is known as one of the best defensive defensemen in this year's crop. He played this past season with players generally older than him but still managed to compete at a high level. He is a top-end skater and attracts teams with his ability to close the separation between himself and the opposition. He is rarely caught out of defensive position because he almost never takes risks. His offensive game needs work. He doesn't have great puck possession skills and he holds only an average shot. He is more of a first pass defenseman rather than a blueliner who will lead the rush. Nevertheless, Matheson projects to be the perfect complementary player that will fit on any blueline in the league. He should help bolster an already deep prospect pool in Florida.

  24. Boston Bruins-Malcolm Subban-Goalie

  P.K. Subban's brother might just try to stop his brothers in the Boston-Montreal series soon. Like P.K., Malcolm plays with intensity and is determined to be the best. Despite being just 12 years old when he began playing the position, Subban has natural abilities that make him such an intriguing prospect. He’s arguably the most athletic goaltender in the draft with the ability to move post-to-post quicker than most. Scouts agree that Subban’s low rebound control needs improvement since he tends to leave undesirable rebounds in front. He also can struggle at times with point shots when there is traffic in front of him. With Tim Thomas out of the picture, the Bruins needed to add depth for the future. Subban could push Tuukka Rask for starts in a few years.

  25. St. Louis Blues-Jordan Schmaltz-Defenseman

  Jordan Schmaltz has the potential to be the type of defensemen that fantasy owners love. He has offensive upside and could develop into a power-play quarterback for the Blues. That being said, he's a long-term project and he shouldn't be counted on to play in the NHL over the next couple of years. The Blues went a bit off the board with this one, but it's not shocking that he was taken late in the first round.

  26. Vancouver Canucks-Brendan Gaunce-Forward

  Brendan Gaunce has one of the best work ethics in the draft class. He is a high-character player and a fierce competitor, willing to play at both ends of the ice. He was used in almost every situation this past season with Belleville and was one of the most valuable players in the OHL. He doesn't excel in any particular area in his offensive game, but he still managed to produce at a point per game pace in the 2011-12 campaign. He projects to add secondary scoring at the NHL level, which would be especially helpful for an already deep Vancouver team. The biggest question mark with Gaunce is his skating, as he doesn't possess great speed. However, he makes up for it by doing all the little things that NHL teams covet. Look for Gaunce to have an impact as a consistent two-way forward at the next level.

  27. Phoenix Coyotes-Henrik Samuelsson-Forward

  Henrik Samuelsson's father Ulf was a controversial defenseman in the NHL. He shares some of his dad's feisty tendencies, so don't be shocked if he delivers the occasional polarizing hit. It'll take a while to do so, however, as he's pegged for some serious development time before potentially making it to the NHL. He doesn't have great speed but his shot makes him an intriguing future pest.

  28. N.Y. Rangers-Brady Skjei-Defenseman

  Brady Skjei doesn't shine in any particular aspect of the game, but is consistent in all facets. He plays a strong two-way game, completing his tasks on both ends of the ice. Skjei is a skillful defenseman, which surprises scouts who see his large frame. He is an excellent skater and plays with poise. Skjei is solid defensively, and often wins one-on-one situations despite not being overly physical. It will probably be a while before he finds a way to establish himself on the Rangers' roster. However, if Skjei continues to progress offensively and learns how to use his size effectively, he may become one of the best blueliners out of this class.

  29. New Jersey Devils-Stefan Matteau-Forward

  The son of Stephane Matteau, the young Matteau is one of the hardest working players in the draft. He is a budding power forward who uses his size and toughness to help him in the offensive zone. He doesn't possess the best puck possession skills, but he makes up for it with his above-average skating ability. He has deceptive quickness for a big-bodied player. He bothers opponents by throwing his body all over the ice. Matteau's defensive game is improving and by the end of the season he was used on the penalty kill. He projects to be a bottom-six forward who plays a playoff hockey style of game.

  30. Los Angeles Kings-Tanner Pearson-Forward

  Tanner Pearson is the prototypical late-bloomer. Being draft eligible since 2010, Pearson has continued to work on his game and finally finds himself near the top of scouts’ rankings. He had a breakout 2011-12 season. Scouts are impressed with his determination and his ability to create offensive chances. He plays with grit and tenacity, and uses his size to get in front of the net. Pearson needs to become a better skater, but you can expect him to work on it. If he improves his defensive game, expect him to surprise people at the next level. The good news is that the Kings have a deep enough pool of NHL forwards and prospects to wait for him to progress.