4 targets for the Leafs in the 2018 draft
By Austin Owens
Evan Bouchard – Defence (London Knights)
It’s not hard to understand why the Toronto Maple Leafs would have interest in Bouchard in the draft. They are in need of defensive depth, and Mark Hunter will have gotten more than enough information on the rearguard from brother Dale.
The Leafs have taken Knights in two of the last three drafts. Along with Mitch Marner in 2015, Nicolas Mattinen was picked in the sixth round of the 2016 draft.
Firstly, his measurable’s are what every team is looking for in a defensive prospect; six-foot-two, 180-plus pounds.
On top of that, his scouting reports give you nothing but optimism that Bouchard could be a very solid defender for a franchise, once he makes it to the pro level.
Here’s a scouting report from Future Considerations on the defender:
"Bouchard is a smart, responsible defender…solid skater with a smooth, long stride…solid agility on his feet for his size…likes to rush the puck and get involved where he can offensively…willing to jump in and pinch to maintain offensive zone pressure at the right times…makes accurate reads of the play, and has the ability to dish the puck off to teammates in prime scoring areas…keeps his head up when carrying the puck to track his options…has a knack for finding open lanes…has a hard, accurate shot that he fires low to the ice, perfect for redirects…steady in his own end, anticipates the play developing around him well, and maintains good position between the puck and the net…utilizes his reach and body position well…doesn’t get caught flat-footed often, and uses his solid positioning and awareness to effectively close off lanes and limit scoring chances…makes the simple smart play to relieve pressure more often than not…not overly flashy, but can get creative when the time arises…has the potential to develop into a top-four, two-way NHL blueliner. (July 2017)"
Bouchard has taken on more of an offensive role than he ever has with the Knights. Through the first 37 games of this season, he has already surpassed last year’s point total, with 12 goals and 46 points.
Bouchard is exactly what the Leafs could use on their blue line right now. A steady defender who isn’t too flashy and can just get the job done.
He would be another good prospect that will be NHL-ready sooner than later.
It could be a bit of a reach to think the Leafs could land Bouchard. He is rated just outside the lottery in most mocks and rankings up to now.
You never know what will happen when it comes to draft night, though. If last year was any indicator, draft rankings don’t cement where every player will go in the draft.