NOTE: If I haven't seen a prospect play or don't have enough notes, I will not be discussing them.
Draft Review: Montreal Canadiens
Draft Review: Toronto Maple Leafs
For a third straight year, Edmonton got the first overall pick. I felt slightly bad for Blue Jackets fans, as videos poured onto Youtube of them watching the lottery from bars, only to be disappointed and heart broken. I feel your pain. However, it put Edmonton in an interesting position - as the need for a top end defenseman has been beaten to death in the media.
1st Overall - Nail Yakupov
There isn't much to say. Edmonton gets the best player in the 2012 NHL Draft right now, bringing in a potential 40+ goal scorer to go with it's growing and already scary core of young elite forwards. Yakupov at times can be compared to the likes of Kovalchuk, Bure and even Ovechkin. He's another in a long list of talented Russians.
Full Report Here.
32nd Overall - Mitch Moroz
A physical forward, Moroz is a bit of a surprise this high as many had him pegged for the 3rd/early 4th round. Moroz has a good top speed and skates well for a big man, however he does need to work on his first few steps. He shields the puck well and goes right into dirty areas for loose pucks, usually cashing in. He loves to engage physically whether on the forecheck or backcheck, and will even drop the mitts. He blocks shots like it's his job, and is used in a big PK role. Still quite raw, Moroz could tap into some more potential, but will likely find a role somewhere in the NHL.
91st Overall - Daniil Zharkov
A value pick, many saw Zharkov as a high end 2nd round pick. With his Russian roots, and the fear of losing him should he need some AHL time, he dropped to Edmonton here. A big guy, Zharkov is a one shot scorer
(does Edmonton need any more of these?). He's a fast skater with a good top speed, though will need to improve leg strength. He shows very good understanding of the offensive game, elusive in the offensive zone, with slick hands. He uses his strength down low and along the boards to crash and bang, taking the puck to the net, though sometimes will go invisible when he stops that side of his game. He can get caught with his head down at times, as well. His shot is pro-ready, but he;ll need to polish up his game further going forward.
UFA - Justin Schultz
A terrific skater, many will be reminded of Toronto's current defender, Jake Gardiner. Best friends at college, the two became a force in the NCAA, as both were PPG Dmen in Jake's final year. Schultz is a high end prospect with very good vision and IQ. He finds open men with slick passing and makes those around him better from the back end. He has a good frame to add to long term. Schultz has a big shot, but is more known for his slick rushes and end-to-end plays.
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