2019 HF.net NHL Mock Draft and Discussion

With the 14th selection in the 2019 NHL Draft, the Arizona Coyotes are pleased to select Cole Caufield, left wing, United States National Team Development Program.

Arizona needs a bit of everything, and pure scoring is one of them, and Caufield has it in spades. I know he is small, but nothing about the way he plays indicates that that will be an issue in the NHL.

Skating

Caufield is a very good skater. While he has very good top end speed, his best attributes are his acceleration and agility. Caufield can dart in and out of open space quickly. He changes speeds and fools defenders as a result. He uses his edges very well and moves laterally with ease. This helps him to beat defenders in one-on-one situations, both with and without the puck. As mentioned Caufield lacks size. However, he has a very strong lower body and powerful stride. This gives him excellent balance and he is tough to knock off the puck or beat in battles in front of the net.

Offensive Game

Caufield has an excellent arsenal of shots. His wrist shot and snapshot are both deadly accurate and have good power. They also have very quick releases which fool goaltenders. Caufield also has a very good one-timer. He has a knack for finding soft spots in the defence and getting his shot off. Caufield can even score on his backhand. He is not afraid to battle in the dirty areas of the ice and goes hard to the net. When he is there, he can score on rebounds and deflections due to his soft hands and excellent coordination.

He also shows the ability to make passes through tight spaces and the vision to find teammates but is better known for his goal scoring. Caufield can show flashes of brilliance as a playmaker though. He also controls the puck well, even when moving at top speed. He can get by a defender with a quick fake or toe-drag. Overall, he has all the offensive tools one looks for in a player, with the exception being his lack of height.

Defensive Game

Caufield’s quickness and anticipation have helped him in the defensive end. He is very good at intercepting passes and creating turnovers. Once these happen he transitions quickly to offence. This has made him an effective penalty killer and a threat to score short handed. However, his lack of size has had a bigger effect in his five-on-five defensive game. He does not really do well in supporting the defence down low as he has a tough time containing bigger opponents in the cycle game.

Scouting report: https://lastwordonhockey.com/2019/04/15/cole-caufield-scouting-report/

The Montreal Canadiens and @Hale are now on the clock.

Hale · June 11, 2019

With the 15th pick the Montreal Canadiens are proud to select from Honkajoki, Finland, defensemen, VILLE HEINOLA.

Lukko Rauma (SM-Liiga)

Position: Defenseman

Shoots: Left

Height / Weight: 5’11, 178 lbs

Born: February 3rd, 2001 | Honkajonki, Finland

Nation: Finland

So the way I looked at this pick was Heinola and Newhook are skilled players available that fit with Montreal's needs. The PP in Montreal needs a lot of help and the way that Heinola moves the puck with his head up constantly gave me the impression of a very cerebral player. When he has the puck you can see him evaluating his options and has the ability to distribute the puck wisely under pressure. Back checks well, passes well, I think this kid would have high value at #15. Smart, calm kid on the blue line to transition out of the zone in hockey mad Montreal seems like long term success.

No way, no how would I bring a big french kid like Lavoie with all the pressure. Harley seems safe. Newhook was a 1B for me.

Steve Kournianos - The Draft Analyst

A quick and agile puck mover who can play either side and jumpstarts the attack from as far back as his own goal line, Heinola is a polished defender who immediately earned the trust of his coaches to play a significant role. At first glance, Heinola looks like a purely offensive defenseman, mostly because of his smaller frame and his confidence controlling the puck. But he has proven to be highly intelligent in his own end, using proper positioning and anticipation to create turnovers. He’ll never be a physical presence, but Heinola plays the body in an effective and efficient manner, using just enough of his upper-body strength to separate an opponent from the puck or fix him into the corner. Heinola is an excellent skater who pivots or curls away from pressure, but he also has the innate sense to identify backpressure and take the path of least resistance. Once he escapes, Heinola properly identifies blocked passing lanes and rarely forces the puck into an area that could lead to an opposing counterattack.

One underrated aspect of his game is the way he avoids passing into coverage for the sake of saving his own tail – Heinola knows when to either eat the puck and take a hit or to use his quick first step to attack an opening. Once in open ice, Heinola can uses a series of head fakes and gear shifts to enter the zone cleanly; stopping on a dime to allow the numbers to even out. He is incredibly patient with the puck and will regroup back to the neutral zone if necessary. Heinola surveys the offensive zone like a confident quarterback and passes the puck crisply and right on the tape, especially off his back foot. He properly supports his defense partner and is used quite frequently for set plays that allow him to dart into the scoring areas. Heinola is more of a playmaker than a shooter, although he can sling a high-powered wrister that he seems to favor over his slapper, and he rarely takes low-percentage shots.

Colorado and @hf101 you're on the clock.

Edited June 11, 2019 by Hale

pilldoc · June 11, 2019

16 minutes ago, Hale said:

With the 15th pick the Montreal Canadiens are proud to select from Honkajoki, Finland, defensemen, VILLE HEINOLA.

Lukko Rauma (SM-Liiga)

Position: Defenseman

Shoots: Left

Height / Weight: 5’11, 178 lbs

Born: February 3rd, 2001 | Honkajonki, Finland

Nation: Finland

So the way I looked at this pick was Heinola and Newhook are skilled players available that fit with Montreal's needs. The PP in Montreal needs a lot of help and the way that Heinola moves the puck with his head up constantly gave me the impression of a very cerebral player. When he has the puck you can see him evaluating his options and has the ability to distribute the puck wisely under pressure. Back checks well, passes well, I think this kid would have high value at #15. Smart, calm kid on the blue line to transition out of the zone in hockey mad Montreal seems like long term success.

No way, no how would I bring a big french kid like Lavoie with all the pressure. Harley seems safe. Newhook was a 1B for me.

Steve Kournianos - The Draft Analyst

A quick and agile puck mover who can play either side and jumpstarts the attack from as far back as his own goal line, Heinola is a polished defender who immediately earned the trust of his coaches to play a significant role. At first glance, Heinola looks like a purely offensive defenseman, mostly because of his smaller frame and his confidence controlling the puck. But he has proven to be highly intelligent in his own end, using proper positioning and anticipation to create turnovers. He’ll never be a physical presence, but Heinola plays the body in an effective and efficient manner, using just enough of his upper-body strength to separate an opponent from the puck or fix him into the corner. Heinola is an excellent skater who pivots or curls away from pressure, but he also has the innate sense to identify backpressure and take the path of least resistance. Once he escapes, Heinola properly identifies blocked passing lanes and rarely forces the puck into an area that could lead to an opposing counterattack.

One underrated aspect of his game is the way he avoids passing into coverage for the sake of saving his own tail – Heinola knows when to either eat the puck and take a hit or to use his quick first step to attack an opening. Once in open ice, Heinola can uses a series of head fakes and gear shifts to enter the zone cleanly; stopping on a dime to allow the numbers to even out. He is incredibly patient with the puck and will regroup back to the neutral zone if necessary. Heinola surveys the offensive zone like a confident quarterback and passes the puck crisply and right on the tape, especially off his back foot. He properly supports his defense partner and is used quite frequently for set plays that allow him to dart into the scoring areas. Heinola is more of a playmaker than a shooter, although he can sling a high-powered wrister that he seems to favor over his slapper, and he rarely takes low-percentage shots.

Colorado and @hf101 you're on the clock.

Excellent pick! I was looking at him for a possible pick with the Pens at #21. Off the radar because he played in the elite Finnish League.

pilldoc · June 11, 2019

Too All,

FYI .... my son has a baseball game this evening so I probably won't post until later this evening after @hf101 submits Colorado's pick.

thanks

~doc

hf101 · June 12, 2019

Drafting and developing a long-term starting goaltender remains to be one of Colorado's most significant challenges ever since 1995 when the Avalanche relocated from Quebec City. While they currently have 4 netminders in their system it is uncertain if one of them could become the next Avalanche franchise goalie.

Thus, with the 16th pick in the draft the Avalanche are proud to draft the number one ranked goalie of this years draft class from the US-NTDP, Spencer Knight.

Knight has the perfect size for the NHL. His athleticism combined with his size and IQ give him virtually limitless potential. There’s no panic in the way he plays, as he moves quickly to get to pucks. When a tough save needs to be made, he’s there, square and in perfect form. His side-to-side movement is extremely impressive and he has very powerful legs to get across his crease. Knight likes to play the puck and is very good at doing so. One nitpick of his game is he doesn’t often make the spectacular save, but scouts will argue it’s because he is never out of position.

Cam Robinson - Dobber ProspectsMay 15th: "Talented netminder who blends quickness and strong positioning. Size, athleticism and a strong pedigree. Isn’t shaken by a soft goal or bad outing – a great sign for the mental side of the position."

Solid butterfly goaltender … keeps his movements tight … explosive from side to side … plays with calmness … comminucates well … eats up rebounds, ISS Hockey 2017

@pilldoc you are on the clock with the Golden Knights 17th pick.

hf101 · June 12, 2019

17 hours ago, OccamsRazor said:

I wonder how far Spencer Knight falls?? The consensus #1 goalie??

Only to #16 as he wouldn't be there for the Ave's 2nd round pick.

pilldoc · June 12, 2019

7 hours ago, hf101 said:

Only to #16 as he wouldn't be there for the Ave's 2nd round pick.

I don't like you very much (just kidding ) ...LOL ..as the Vegas contingent, including McPhee, are seen tearing up their draft card muttering expletives. :rage: Knight was gonna go to the Knights at #17...... now it is off to Plan B. Will submit my pick shortly.....

EDIT: ... due to unforseen circumstances I will not be able to submit my pick for Vegas until sometime after lunch today. Sorry for the delay.

Edited June 12, 2019 by pilldoc

ruxpin · June 12, 2019

9 hours ago, hf101 said:

Thus, with the 16th pick in the draft the Avalanche are proud to draft the number one ranked goalie of this years draft class from the US-NTDP, Spencer Knight.

Grrrr. The Sabres are foiled again!

Well, we can always trade for Miller and Allen.

pilldoc · June 12, 2019

Before Gary Bettman even announces that the Vegas Knight are on the clock, George McPhee, who after regaining his composure after losing out on Spencer Knight, is already striding to the stage ready to grab the microphone from Gary. With a confused and meager look on his face, Gary meekly hands the microphone to George and shirks off the stage …….

Like a seasoned gambler playing Texas Hold Em’ and with his eyes glowing as if he just drew Pocket Aces, McPhee in a booming voice begins his announcement….. “From the heart of Sin City, the Vegas organization would like to thank Vancouver for hosting this year’s NHL Entry Level Draft. With the formalities now taken care of…Let’s get to the heart of the matter ….With the 17th pick in this year’s draft, the Vegas Knights select from the Mississauga Steelheads, Defenseman….. Thomas Harley.

Despite missing out on Spencer Knight, Vegas fans should not be worried as McPhee had an outstanding backup plan. The Knights needed to add some a defensemen to their prospect pool after they dealt their top defenseman prospect, Erik Brannstrom to the Ottawa Senators in the Mark Stone trade. With Brannstrom in Ottawa, the top defenseman in the Golden Knights’ farm system is Nicolas Hague, who is currently playing with the Chicago Wolves (AHL club). Hague has promise, but is the only notable defensive prospect that the Golden Knights have…… until now.

With Harley, the Knights get “a strong two-way defender with good size and skating ability. He has very good speed in both directions. His first few steps and acceleration are outstanding. Harley uses this ability to change speeds to move the puck out of his zone and make plays through the neutral zone. Combine this with his good agility, edgework, and pivots and his skating allows Harley to play a strong game in both ends of the ice. He can beat defenders off the rush, as well as walk the line in the offensive zone to open up shooting and passing lanes. His balance is good and he is strong on the puck. This should improve as he continues to add muscle to his frame.”

https://lastwordonhockey.com/2019/04/16/thomas-harley-scouting-report/

In addition, “Harley makes a good first pass out of the zone and can start the transition game. He handles the puck well, especially while moving at top speed. This helps him to rush the puck out of his end and to lead the play in the neutral zone. Harley is also willing to take chances and join the rush as a trailer. He is also able to make smart plays with the puck in the offensive zone. Harley is a creative player. He has good vision and sees plays developing in the offensive zone. He can make passes through tight areas and sets up teammates for good scoring opportunities.”

Getting a chance to play on Team Canada at the World Under-18 Championship, he once again posted the top points total of all blue-liners, ranking behind a bevy of forwards also projected to be taken in the opening round of the draft.

Defensively Harley is a solid defensive defenseman. Standing at 6 feet and 3 inches and weighing in around 188 pounds, Harley is a big sized mobile defenseman that many NHL teams are looking for nowadays. He keeps good gap control and forces defenders to the outside. Harley forces attackers into bad shooting positions and uses his long reach to cut down passing lanes. However, especially quick and shifty forwards can sometimes give him problems one-on-one off the rush, and he must get a little quicker to handle them better. He also has good positioning and reads the play well, helping him to be especially strong in his own end for a 17-year-old. He does not seem to play a physical game at this point despite the fact that he has a good frame. Harley is willing to battle in the corners and in front of the net, but do not expect too many big hits from him. He needs to get stronger and add muscle to that frame.

He does need to work on defensive consistency as admits in the following:

“My defensive consistency is all over the place, that is something I need to work on,” he admitted at the Scouting Combine. That could be seen as a concern, but the fact he acknowledges it as a weakness, and seems determined to improve it, are good signs.

Harley’s skating is likely the largest reason that he has risen in the draft rankings this past year, already being referred to as an elite skater. Mixed with his puck movement, Harley’s ceiling is high and has even been referred to as the next Thomas Chabot.

“An efficient and play-driving defender with good size and speed. Harley has not only accepted a larger role with Mississauga this year, but he’s also thrived. Improved lateral quickness and overall speed from last season make him more of a threat off the rush. This is a player with a ton of upside.” – Cam Robinson, DobberProspects

“Continues to climb the charts due to his elite skating and puck-handling abilities. You’d much rather coach the wildness out of his game than have to encourage more of it.” – Sam Cosentino, Sportsnet

“A high riser in the rankings, Harley has taken on a lot of responsibility for a rebuilding Steelheads squad and is still putting up points. Size, skating and skill are all strengths, but Harley also takes care of his own end. There’s a real high ceiling here.” – Ryan Kennedy, The Hockey News

So what does the future bring for young Mr. Harley?

If Harley continues on the way he is currently trending, it seems extremely likely that he will end up as a top-four NHL defenseman. With his skating and playmaking abilities, any team will be lucky to have him running their power play in the near future. While certainly not a sure thing, there is a chance he could become a top pairing defender in his prime. Harley’s game and style show similarities to Thomas Chabot but this is not a comparison based on skill or ability.

It might take him an extra season or two in the minors to iron out the defensive wrinkles and continue to get stronger but overall Harley looks to be a strong prospect.

@yave1964 you and the Dallas Stars are now on the clock!

Edited June 12, 2019 by pilldoc

yave1964 · June 12, 2019

PEGGED. I had this guy sitting here for Jim Nill and Dallas about six picks ago when I started researching who to take for Dallas.

tHE Dallas Stars are pleased to select Winger Arthur Kaliyev the dual citizen who has played for Hamilton for two years.

Let me be clear, I have not seen a team waste mid early round picks like the Stars do in a long time. Guys like Nichuskin, Brett Ritchie, Faksa, Honka, Oettinger, Tufte, Gurianov, Hint, Pulock, Dickinson, elie, Bystrom Campbell, Nemeth all were taken in the first two rounds, most in the first round, all were wasted picks, and that is why I have them taking Kaliyev.

Kaliyev can score lets be honest. but this lowlight play is the one that IMHO really fits how I see him:

disinterested in his own zone, read this stat carefully:

51 goals

Minus 13

His team scored 238 goals and gave up 267 so they were a minus team and they were heavily power play reliant but when you score 51 goals as a man among boys you should never, ever be double digits into the minus cat.

Kaliyev IMHO is the bust of the draft, hands down, bar none he is my pick to not work out, Dallas loves these guys, he fits them like a glove.

So Kaliyev to Dallas. Not who I would pick, ever in a million years but who Dallas will not be able to help themselves with taking.

@CreaseAndAssist you and the Senators are on the clock.

CreaseAndAssist · June 12, 2019

The Ottawa Senators (cough Quebec Nordiques cough) are proud to select, from Adler Mannheim of the German Budesliga, defenseman Moritz Seider!

He has size, is a right-shot, moves well and was the German league rookie of the year competing against men! We feel he'll be a cornerstone in our top 4 for years to come! @bbgarnett you and New York Rangers are on the clock!

Edited June 12, 2019 by CreaseAndAssist

bbgarnett · June 12, 2019

With the 20th Pick in the NHL draft The New York Rangers are proud to select Thomas Harley D Mississauga (OHL)

Skating

Harley is a strong two-way defender with good size and skating ability. He has very good speed in both directions. His first few steps and acceleration are outstanding. Harley uses this ability to change speeds to move the puck out of his zone and make plays through the neutral zone. Combine this with his good agility, edgework, and pivots and his skating allows Harley to play a strong game in both ends of the ice. He can beat defenders off the rush, as well as walk the line in the offensive zone to open up shooting and passing lanes. His balance is good and he is strong on the puck. This should improve as he continues to add muscle to his frame.

Offensive Game

Harley makes a good first pass out of the zone and can start the transition game. He handles the puck well, especially while moving at top speed. This helps him to rush the puck out of his end and to lead the play in the neutral zone. Harley is also willing to take chances and join the rush as a trailer. He is also able to make smart plays with the puck in the offensive zone. Harley is a creative player. He has good vision and sees plays developing in the offensive zone. He can make passes through tight areas and sets up teammates for good scoring opportunities.

Harley has improved his shot this year and the goals are starting to go in as a result. His slap shot has gotten significantly harder and he uses patience and his agility to open up shooting lanes and get it on net. Harley also keeps his shot low, allowing teammates to get to the net for screens, tip-ins, and rebounds. Harley could improve by sneaking in from the point and letting his wrist shot go more often.

Defensive Game

Harley is a solid defensive defenceman. He keeps good gap control and forces defenders to the outside. Harley forces attackers into bad shooting positions and uses his long reach to cut down passing lanes. However, especially quick and shifty forwards can sometimes give him problems one-on-one off the rush, and he must get a little quicker to handle them better. He also has good positioning and reads the play well, helping him to be especially strong in his own end for a 17-year-old. He does not seem to play a physical game at this point despite the fact that he has a good frame. Harley is willing to battle in the corners and in front of the net, but don’t expect too many big hits from him. He needs to get stronger and add muscle to that frame.

Projection and Comparison

Harley will need some time to iron out the defensive wrinkles and continue to get stronger. He has the potential to develop into a strong offensive defenceman, quarterbacking a power play and playing big minutes for his NHL team if he can hit his ceiling. While certainly not a sure thing, there is a chance he could become a top pairing defender in his prime. Harley’s game and style show similarities to Thomas Chabot but this is not a comparison based on skill or ability.

Tall OHL left defender who plays on Mississauga’s top pairing. Is a balanced four-direction skater with upright skating style which doesn’t detract him from being and excellent backward skater or his ability to close on attackers. Sees time on the penalty-kill but the PP is where he is an offensive standout, and relishes joining the rush and being a QB. Still working on not getting caught flat-footed in transition, displaying better gap control, and reading the defensive coverages in his end, and some might question whether he has displayed high end attack skills or can play in the higher levels and have success in both ends that he has achieved in junior as he is finesse-type player; what is certain is that he currently already displays sharps edging, quick pivots, vision, excellent offemsive hockey sense, and calm composure taking care of business in his current level with solid passing skills and excellent vision.

—Bill Placzek—

@pilldoc and the Pittsburgh Penguins are on the clock

hf101 · June 12, 2019

2 hours ago, yave1964 said:

Kaliyev IMHO is the bust of the draft, hands down, bar none he is my pick to not work out, Dallas loves these guys, he fits them like a glove.

Either that or Fenton will take him at #12. :IDunnoSmiley:

hf101 · June 12, 2019

23 minutes ago, bbgarnett said:

With the 20th Pick in the NHL draft The New York Rangers are proud to select Thomas Harley D Mississauga (OHL)

Skating

Harley is a strong two-way defender with good size and skating ability. He has very good speed in both directions. His first few steps and acceleration are outstanding. Harley uses this ability to change speeds to move the puck out of his zone and make plays through the neutral zone. Combine this with his good agility, edgework, and pivots and his skating allows Harley to play a strong game in both ends of the ice. He can beat defenders off the rush, as well as walk the line in the offensive zone to open up shooting and passing lanes. His balance is good and he is strong on the puck. This should improve as he continues to add muscle to his frame.

Offensive Game

Harley makes a good first pass out of the zone and can start the transition game. He handles the puck well, especially while moving at top speed. This helps him to rush the puck out of his end and to lead the play in the neutral zone. Harley is also willing to take chances and join the rush as a trailer. He is also able to make smart plays with the puck in the offensive zone. Harley is a creative player. He has good vision and sees plays developing in the offensive zone. He can make passes through tight areas and sets up teammates for good scoring opportunities.

Harley has improved his shot this year and the goals are starting to go in as a result. His slap shot has gotten significantly harder and he uses patience and his agility to open up shooting lanes and get it on net. Harley also keeps his shot low, allowing teammates to get to the net for screens, tip-ins, and rebounds. Harley could improve by sneaking in from the point and letting his wrist shot go more often.

Defensive Game

Harley is a solid defensive defenceman. He keeps good gap control and forces defenders to the outside. Harley forces attackers into bad shooting positions and uses his long reach to cut down passing lanes. However, especially quick and shifty forwards can sometimes give him problems one-on-one off the rush, and he must get a little quicker to handle them better. He also has good positioning and reads the play well, helping him to be especially strong in his own end for a 17-year-old. He does not seem to play a physical game at this point despite the fact that he has a good frame. Harley is willing to battle in the corners and in front of the net, but don’t expect too many big hits from him. He needs to get stronger and add muscle to that frame.

Projection and Comparison

Harley will need some time to iron out the defensive wrinkles and continue to get stronger. He has the potential to develop into a strong offensive defenceman, quarterbacking a power play and playing big minutes for his NHL team if he can hit his ceiling. While certainly not a sure thing, there is a chance he could become a top pairing defender in his prime. Harley’s game and style show similarities to Thomas Chabot but this is not a comparison based on skill or ability.

Tall OHL left defender who plays on Mississauga’s top pairing. Is a balanced four-direction skater with upright skating style which doesn’t detract him from being and excellent backward skater or his ability to close on attackers. Sees time on the penalty-kill but the PP is where he is an offensive standout, and relishes joining the rush and being a QB. Still working on not getting caught flat-footed in transition, displaying better gap control, and reading the defensive coverages in his end, and some might question whether he has displayed high end attack skills or can play in the higher levels and have success in both ends that he has achieved in junior as he is finesse-type player; what is certain is that he currently already displays sharps edging, quick pivots, vision, excellent offemsive hockey sense, and calm composure taking care of business in his current level with solid passing skills and excellent vision.

—Bill Placzek—

@pilldoc and the Pittsburgh Penguins are on the clock

Unfortunately Thomas Harley was taken by the Golden Knights. Nice write up though.

@bbgarnett you are still on the clock.

bbgarnett · June 13, 2019

58 minutes ago, hf101 said:

Unfortunately Thomas Harley was taken by the Golden Knights. Nice write up though.

@bbgarnett you are still on the clock.

Whoops my bad looked at the list and missed it I guess.

bbgarnett · June 13, 2019

With the 20th Pick in the NHL draft The New York Rangers are proud to select Tobias Björnfot Djurgardens

Tobias Bjornfot is coming off of captaining Sweden’s Under-18 Team to a gold medal at the IIHF U18 World Championships. While he only registered one assist in the tournament, his defensive presence was a key factor in the win. He also captained Sweden at the Hlinka-Gretzky tournament, helping the team to a silver medal. He has plenty of international experience as he was also part of the bronze medal winning Swedish team at the 2018 IIHF U18s. Bjornfot represented Sweden at Under-16 and Under-17 level events, including last year’s U17 World Hockey Challenge.

Bjornfot got his feet wet in the SHL, playing seven regular-season and four playoff games for Djurgardens. He spent most of his time with the J20 squad. Bjornfot scored 11 goals and 22 points in 39 games. He added three points in seven playoff games. It was enough to see him recognized as the J20 league’s best defenceman and helped his team to finish third. In 2017-18, he played in the J18 league playoffs and helped the Djurgardens squad to the championship with five points in five games. However, despite being 16, he spent most of the season in the J20, scoring 22 points in 42 games.

Skating

Bjornfot is another strong two-way defender, whose game is based on strong skating ability. He has very good speed in both directions. His acceleration is also at a high level. He pairs this with excellent pivots, agility and edgework to play a two-way game. Bjornfot covers a lot of ice quickly. He is able to transition from offence to defence, or vice-versa, effectively. Bjornfot can also quickly change speeds or direction in order to avoid a forechecker. He also has a strong lower-body which helps him to win battles along the boards and in front of the net. Bjornfot is strong on the puck and his stride helps him fight through checks.

Offensive Game

In the offensive end, Tobias Bjornfot has a good wrist shot with a decent release. He sneaks in from the point to get it off closer to the net. However, his slap shot could use some work. Bjornfot sees the ice well and makes smart plays with the puck. He makes good passes to start the rush and transition game. He is also not afraid to rush the puck up the ice himself or join in as a trailer. The combination of his stickhandling and skating ability also gives him the ability to skate the puck out of danger and avoid forecheckers in his own end. He has some creativity on the point, but this is an area he can continue to work on. He tends to be conservative and does not take a lot of chances to make an offensive play.

Bjornfot is willing to join the rush at times and when he does can provide some offence with his passing skill and his wrist shot as a trailer. This is not something he does very often though, as he is again content to play a conservative and more defensive style. There is potential to produce better numbers than he has put up to date as the skill is there. It will take some coaching to get him to take advantage of the opportunities though.

Defensive Game

Bjornfot defends well against the rush and is very well positioned and disciplined in his own end. He has a high hockey IQ and reads the play extremely well. His anticipation of where the play is going and what play the other team will try to make is high end. This leads to him breaking up plays and intercepting passes. When turnovers happen, he is quick to transition the puck out of the zone. Bjornfot is strong on the boards and in front of the net against junior aged competition but must bulk up before he is ready to compete in the pro game.

Projection and Comparison

Bjornfot could develop into a two-way defenceman with a top-four role at the NHL level. Like most young defenders, he still has some things to learn in his own zone. That said, he is already highly advanced for a draft-eligible player. The question here is the offence. It is rarely seen in Bjornfot’s international appearances (with the exception of the Five Nations tournament). While he puts up points in the domestic junior league, there is also some concern that the points per game did not grow much from last season to this one. If a team can unlock his puck-moving and offensive skill, they could have a gem on their hands. Currently, his game is similar to Jonas Brodin but this is a style comparison only and not one based on skill.

@pilldoc and the Pittsburgh Penguins are now Finally on the clock.

Edited June 13, 2019 by bbgarnett

pilldoc · June 13, 2019

The Pittsburgh contingency arrives noisily amid the ongoing selections. As the remainder of the group take their seats at the designated table, knocking over team materials and other furniture in the process, Mario Lemieux strides purposefully to the podium ... much to the surprise of commissioner Bettman, who is already occupying it.

Lemieux ascends the stairs 2 at a time, snatches the microphone from a startled Bettman, and begins.

"Thank you, Vancouver, for hosting this 2019 NHL draft. On behalf of the five-time Stanley Cup winning Pittsburgh Penguins organization, I would like to acknowledge our incredible fanbase and their wild enthusiasm during the seasons we won. And… when we got Sid…. I would also like to thank the fans' parents for continuing to allow them to live in your basements.

"The five-time Stanley Cup winning Pittsburgh Penguins are pleased to select ..."

"Umm, Mario?"

"... with the first overall pick,

"Mario?"

"... from the U.S. National Development Team ..."

"Mario!"

"Jack Hughes!"

"MARIO, STOP!"

Bettman takes the microphone back from a puzzled and irritated Lemieux. He holds it away from his mouth as he whispers:

"Not this season, Mario. We talked about this last week. The Penguins 1st is in 2 seasons."

"We changed our mind," Lemieux shoots back. "The five-time Stanley Cup winning Pittsburgh Penguins need a franchise player right away. After all, as you know, Sid isn’t getting any younger."

Bettman cradles his head in one hand. "Mario, it doesn't work that way. Look, we're already 21 picks in."

"I DON'T CARE!" Lemieux bellows. "Do you KNOW what this franchise has done for the NHL???!? You'd be NOTHING without us!"

"Mario, please listen to reason."

“Fine then we will take that kid from Finland ..what’s his name ….Kaako something?”

“Mario…you can’t have him either. Kaako Kappo has already been drafted by the NY Rangers with the 2nd overall pick.”

“Screw the Rangers …. “ Lemieux stomps down the stairs. "I have had SEVERAL calls with a LIST of potential owners in Kansas City, Gary! I can pick up the phone at ANY MINUTE and make that deal. Watch, I'll call them right now ..."

"Mario ..."

"It's ringing ..." Lemieux says, walking back to the Penguins' table.

"Mario, that isn't even a phone ..."

"Hello, John? It's Mario. I agree to your BILLION DOLLAR offer for the Penguins. Please come and get them and bring them to Kansas City tomorrow!"

"This is embarrassing."

“Fine…..I’ll play by your rules just this once …….. “ screaming from the Penquins’s table Mario continues..”With the 21st pick of this year’s draft the Penguin’s will select from Niagara Ice Dogs of the OHL, Center /RW….Philip Tomasino

The Penguins' prospect pool is one of the weakest, if not the weakest, in the league. That's the price you pay when you go all-in to and win back-to-back Stanley Cups. They are weakest at defensemen, however there is no goalies in the system or high end valued forwards. In short the Pens need a little bit of everything.

With Tomasino, the Pens get a player who has real potential to be an impact player in the NHL. With some added strength and an improved all-around game, he could be a top-six forward.

“His game has so many different layers to it. You’ve got an elite skater who plays with an infectious energy and has no fear on the ice. Impacts the game as a forechecker. Impacts the game as a puck carrier. Opens up space for his linemates when he doesn’t have the puck. And I haven’t even mentioned his hands and how skilled he is with the puck … (I)n a year where the OHL may not have a lottery selection, I think Tomasino possesses the most potential to be an impact NHL player and that’s why I’ve continued to move him up my list.” Brock Otten, OHLProspects

“He’s got all the tools to succeed in the modern day NHL. He’s a very fast skater with high-end puck skills and the vision to make difficult plays. His pace is good but I wish he used his high-end speed a bit more. Tomasino is a threat off the rush due to how quickly his feet and hands move, and when you think of “playing fast,” he’s a guy who is built to do that. He looks to make plays, often finding tight lanes, and he has the creativity to make unique passes. “ – Corey Pronman

Tomasino is a high-energy forward and one of the best skaters in the OHL. Add to those attributes a good set of hands and great playmaking abilities, and this is a guy you want on your team. He doesn’t turn 18 until after the draft. In short, Tomasino is all upside. Standing at just over 6 feet, he could add a few pounds as he is currently around 180. The extra muscle will help him on 1-on-1 battles.

Tomasino’s skating is what sets him apart. The forward has phenomenal top speed and reaches it in just a few steps. With extremely good acceleration and burst, he does an excellent job at attacking the neutral zone with the puck on his stick. When generating speed in transition, Tomasino does an excellent job maneuvering around opponents who get caught flat-footed and backed off the opposition that is in motion. His strong edgework allows him to cut and weave in all three zones giving him the ability to skate out of danger in his own zone and into dangerous areas in the offensive zone.

The offensive skill set that Tomasino possesses is enviable. He has all of the tools that a top-six forward would need. His shot is excellent. His passing ability is crisp and accurate. He has a good vision of the ice and a knack for making a good play into a great one. His IQ ensures that he is consistently driving the pay towards the dangerous areas of the offensive zone whether it’s a pass to the home plate area or driving to the net, staying strong on his edges.

Tomasino reminds some that he is a bit of Morgan Frost, a dynamic forward with a real high offensive ceiling. He’s going to torch the OHL next season, the way Frost did in his draft-plus-one campaign, and Tomasino will be a household name before long.

“An exciting forward with elite speed and agility, Tomasino has emerged as one of the top scoring threats on a team full of NHL drafted prospects. His puck control while travelling at top speed is excellent, and he can wear down opponents with his quick cutbacks and pivots.” Steve Kournianos, TSN

“Explosive first step and agility to manoeuvre the puck around fore checkers and defenseman in his zone entry … So quick on his edges and can skate out of danger anywhere on the ice.” Marshall Mackinder

Another scout says that Tomasino reminds him of Mark Stone who has the ability to force turnovers and steal the puck with the ability to produce offense.

The Pens will finally add some talent to their much depleted farm system.

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@FD19372 you and the LA Kings are on the clock.

Edited June 13, 2019 by pilldoc

FD19372 · June 13, 2019

The Los Angeles Kings are proud to select Matthew Robertson, defenseman, from the Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL). . The Kings need more players who can move the puck on the blue line, and Robertson will fit the bill in the near future.

Skating

Robertson's skating is excellent and powerful, especially his ability who possesses average straight-line speed, but is agile and quick enough to change direction while maintaining puck control. He has the wheels to take the puck end to end and make plays in the offensive zone, but he generally doesn't gamble and has the hockey sense to know when to shoot the puck as well as getting back defensively. He possesses good gap control and positioning, and uses his feet excellently to get out of dangerous situations.

Offensive Game

Robertson is a very good passer who can start rushes from his own end. He has a good slapshot that he gets through to the net quite often. He has to improve on his release of the puck. He moves the puck very quickly. He also anticipates plays very well, and sees his teammates well while making smart passes with the puck.

Defensive Game

Robertson has good gap control and understands how to keep offensive players to the outside on the rush. He is capable of throwing very solid body checks. He is strong in the corners and in front of the net. He also knows how to keep his body being the forward coming toward him, and the front of the net. He is a fearless shot blocker and has a highly advanced defensive game for someone his age.

Outlook

It might take some time for Matthew Robertson to develop his game, and arrive at his full potential but he has a ton of it. Not projected to ever be an elite defenseman, he can play big minutes 5 on 5, the power play or shorthanded. He has a high hockey IQ, and is very comparable to Marc-Edouard Vlasic Of the San Jose Sharks, stylistically speaking. The Kings need to re-stock their farm system, as they look to their future defense, and this is a sound move toward achieving that goal.

Edited June 13, 2019 by FD19372

hf101 · June 13, 2019

@OccamsRazor has the next pick for the New York Islanders.

OccamsRazor · June 13, 2019

Hello everyone.

We would like to congratulate the St. Louis Blues for winning the Stanley Cup.

And with the 23rd pick in the 2019 NHL draft the New York Islanders select from the QMJHL's Halifax Mooseheads Center Raphael Lavoie.

Skating

Lavoie is a strong skater for his size. He has a good first step and acceleration, as well as the top end speed to pull away from defenders and create breakaways and odd-man rushes. He also has very good agility and edgework, giving him the ability to beat defenders both with and without the puck. Lavoie is tough to knock off the puck, with excellent balance. He has a wide skating stance, giving him a low centre of gravity. His stride is powerful and he can fight through checks and get to the net. His size also makes him tough to contain in front of the net as well as giving him a big advantage in battles along the boards. Lavoie will need to continue to add muscle to his frame in order to continue to play this style of game going forward.

Offensive Game

Lavoie has the size and skills to be a power winger. He is also a natural sniper. Lavoie has an excellent wrist shot and quick release. He also has a good snapshot and a hard slap shot. Lavoie is also good at getting to the front of the net where he has the soft hands and good hand-eye coordination to finish in close to the net with rebounds and tip-ins. He also has good stickhandling ability and protects the puck well. He handles the puck well, even while moving at full speed. This allows him to cycle the puck down low and control the pace of the game. If an opportunity presents itself he can take the puck to the front of the net.

He also has the vision and passing ability to play the role of playmaker. Lavoie’s ability to cycle the puck allows him to extend plays and wait for teammates to get open. He sees the ice well and can find the open man, even when he is in traffic. His quick hands can open up passing lanes and he sees the ice well enough to find a teammate.

Defensive Game

Lavoie has received criticism of his defensive game over the years but that has really improved this season. He plays his tenacious puck pursuit game in all three zones, backchecking and battling for pucks in his own end. Lavoie is not a huge hitter, but he is actively involved in the physical battles for the puck. He is also not afraid to block shots, and uses his big frame to effectively cut down on passing and shooting lanes. Once he is able to gain control of the puck, he transitions quickly to offence.

Projection and Comparison

Lavoie has the potential to play all three forward positions and has spent time at each spot in the QMJHL. He projects as a winger at the pro level. He has an intriguing combination of size, speed, power, and skill that will ensure that he goes early in this June’s draft. Lavoie’s game is reminiscent of Rick Nash, but this is not a talent comparison, merely one based on style.

The Nashville Predators @AJgoal are on the clock

AJgoal · June 13, 2019

With the 24th pick in the NHL draft, the Nashville Predators are pleased to select Alexander Newhook, Centre, Victoria, BCHL.

While Nashville could certainly use some defensive prospects in order to prepare for the eventual decline of their top-4, I found it hard to pass on the value of Newhook at this position. Nashville still has question marks behind Johansen at centre, so picking Newhook gives them a potential 2C, or a very potent top 3 centre roster if the rumors of Duchene ending up there come true.

Skating

Newhook has game-breaking talent. His speed is amongst the best in the class, and he has the acceleration, edgework, and agility to go with it. Newhook makes skating look effortless, almost as if he’s gliding above the ice. He is deadly off the rush, as he can beat defenders in a multitude of ways. His speed makes him a threat to blow by a defender to the outside and cut to the net. He can also make a quick change of direction and cut to the inside of the ice. Newhook can also slow down to open up a shooting lane and use a defender as a screen. He is strong on his skates and has good balance for his age. This can improve with more muscle going forward.

Offensive Game

Newhook combines his sublime skating with the hands to make plays at top speed. He also has the smarts to seemingly always make a smart play with the puck. He has the ability to beat defenders with his finesse, and the power game to play in the dirty areas of the ice. Newhook sees the ice well and can find teammates to create a scoring chance. He has the passing skills through tight areas on both his forehand and backhand. Newhook is a playmaker both working the cycle game and off the rush.

A multi-faceted offensive threat, Newhook also has a great shot and a quick release. His one-timer is a real weapon in the faceoff circles. He is not afraid to battle on the boards and to fight for position in front of the net. He is also willing to get to the dirty areas of the ice and take a hit to make a play. Newhook has everything that a scout could want in a top centre.

Defensive Game

Newhook has also shown the effort and instincts to be strong in his own end of the ice. He reads the play well and uses his strong positioning to cut down passing lanes and create turnovers. Newhook anticipates well and this helps him to be an effective penalty killer. He is also strong on face-offs. Newhook shows strength for his age and the ability to contain the play down low. He will get better at these aspects as he continues to grow.

Scouting report: https://lastwordonhockey.com/2019/04/19/alex-newhook-scouting-report/

The Washington Capitals and @BobbyClarkeFan16 are on the clock.

BobbyClarkeFan16 · June 13, 2019

I’m currently at work in training and I’ll make my pick around 4

BobbyClarkeFan16 · June 13, 2019

The Washington Capitals are proud to select from the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League, the second best Connor Mc in the game, Connor McMichael!!!!

Some of the scouting reports include:

Sam Cosentino - SportsNet: "Shoots and passes like a pro. Great skating ability allows him to transition well and consistently be a part of the rush."

Chris Peters - ESPN: "A high-end skater, McMichael shows excellent touch and an ability to be a threat to shoot or pass."

Hannah Stuart - theScore: "Last year, McMichael had six points in 28 games. This year, he put up 72 points in 67 games - and 63 of those were primary points. His production is driven by excellent hockey sense and puck skills, and he's strong in his own zone as well. "

Sam Conentino - SportsNet: "Was a force early- to mid-season, but has taken a step back of late as others have bypassed him for high-leverage minutes."

Connor McMichael comes from the hockey factory and there's familiarity in his game with regards to Dale Hunter being his coach. The Capitals know they're getting a forward that can play all three zones and has an offensive touch to boot. To make matters even more appealing, McMichael is a producer during even strength and produces a number of primary points. With Ovechkin, Backstrom, and Oshie all approaching their mid-30s, the Capitals decide now is the time to start replenishing the system with prospects with offensive upside. McMichael fits that bill and will be a welcome addition to the Washington Capitals prospect pipeline.

@CreaseAndAssist you're up!!!!

Edited June 13, 2019 by BobbyClarkeFan16

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