Now, take this with a pinch of salt before reading. It is out there, and I must react. It’s part of human nature.
According to John “Mayor… Hoven of the Mayor’s Manor, the Anaheim Ducks are heavily leaning towards selecting Swedish center also Carlsson with the second overall selection in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft.
This would slip the Michigan Wolverine, Adam Fantilli, to join the Columbus Blue Jackets at pick number three.
Last week, word got out that the Jackets took out the next three centers for their draft interview dinner - Fantilli, Carlsson, and Will Smith.
The three centers have three different developmental paths - NCAA, SHL, and USHL.
Fantilli, if selected, would have more of his wishes come to truth as he has made it public he may go back to school with the Wolverines.
This spot in the draft is the murkiest draft as it may decide one team’s future quicker than the rest. However, this may prove the most beneficial for the Jackets. With the additions already made, either one of the first mentioned centers could jump onto the main roster immediately and make an impact.
Sure, having Babs may be an uphill battle, but there is also newcomers in Provorov, Severson; and the returning Texier.
Player Profile - Hunter McKown The contracted breakdown begins with a late season acquisition in center Hunter McKown.
The undrafted forward has concluded his junior season with Colorado College before making the jump.
McKown, 21, is a San Jose native who developed most of his hockey in St. Louis and the USNTDP.
He averaged about 0.66 points per game in college, and had two assists in his first 12 NHL games.
More news and reactions coming tomorrow and throughout the week, we are nearing the biggest week of the hockey offseason.