2014 Early Draft Preview
The 2014 NHL Entry Draft is set for this coming June in Philadelphia. There are several players that could emerge as top-10 selections but these are the early favorites to go among the top picks.…
1. Sam Reinhart, C/RW, Kootenay Ice (WHL)
There is much to like about this CHL scoring star, but Reinhart’s best attributes are his low-maintenance profile, versatility up front and family pedigree. He’s also a highly skilled playmaker who may produce big NHL numbers.
2. Aaron Ekblad, D, Barrie Colts (OHL)
A lot like Seth Jones in 2013, Ekblad seems destined to play in the NHL immediately. He’s similar to Jones in other ways, too: right-handed shot, big body, great skater, can play in all situations. He may go first overall.
3. Michael Dal Colle, LW/C, Oshawa Generals (OHL)
Quick, lanky and supremely skilled, Dal Colle is enjoying a great second season with the Generals in 2013-14. While he can play center, he profiles better as a darting offensive winger who can create his own offense.
4. Sam Bennett, C/LW, Kingston Frontenacs (OHL)
A highly skilled, highly competitive player, he never backs down when challenged on the ice. Bennett is also a very good offensive weapon and natural leader. He is Kingston’s top scorer and also a very good two-way player.
5. Leon Draisaitl, C, Prince Albert Raiders (WHL)
Despite a rough WJC tournament for Germany earlier this season, Draisaitl is one of the top offensive prospects this year. He has NHL size and playmaking skills, and he also plays the game with a lot of passion.
6. Haydn Fleury, D, Red Deer Rebels (WHL)
Fleury’s offensive production has really come to life in his second WHL campaign with Red Deer in 2013-14. However, it is his shutdown ability and poise that have scouts raving. He could play in the NHL next year.
7. Nick Ritchie, LW, Peterborough Petes (OHL)
A prototypical power forward with very good hands, Ritchie has a chance to become a rare commodity in today’s NHL: a skilled top-six winger who can also protect skilled linemates. He’s also a presence in front of the net.
8. Nikolay Goldobin, RW, Sarnia Sting (OHL)
A supremely gifted scorer, Goldobin leads the Sting in most offensive categories this season. He plays a prototypical Russian style (left-shooting right-winger), but his early North American experience should help him.
9. Ivan Barbashev, C/LW, Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL)
The heart and soul of the Wildcats the last two seasons, Barbashev excels at the two-way game. However, he is also a capable playmaker who generally makes his teammates better whenever he’s on the ice. He’s just solid.
10. William Nylander, C/W, Sodertalje SK (Swedish Allsvenskan)
The son of former NHL center Michael Nylander hopes to follow in his dad’s footsteps one day. Nylander has played for three different Swedish teams this season, in both the SHL and Allsvenskan. He’s a few years away.