Toronto Maple Leafs: 2018 NHL Draft Player Rankings
By Austin Owens
Underrated big man
Average Ranking: 28.5
"“A long, fluid stride generates loads of power and speed for such a big man. A goal scorer first and foremost, he also offers underrated playmaking ability. Quite young for this crop.” (Cam Robinson, Dobber Prospects)"
With 33 points in 39 games, Noel sits fourth in scoring on the Generals. The 6 foot 5 forward has already bested last year’s point total of 21.
It could be hard to gauge how successful bigger forwards can be in today’s NHL. With the league leaning towards skill and speed, it could be hard to see where Noel fits into a team’s puzzle until after he finds a destination.
Average Ranking: 31.66
"Tychonick is an impressive two-way defenseman with elite mobility and impressive stick skill. Throughout the game, Tychonick could move with ease up the ice passed multiple defenders due to his edges and quickness in transition. He carries speed well and can generate a push off his edges giving him an advantage to dart either way. Tychonick’s greatest asset is his vision and hockey IQ as he reads the play. As he receives pucks at the blue line anything is a possibility for him when he pairs his skating ability with his hockey IQ. (Future Considerations)"
Another smaller-statured defender and the second Junior A. player projected to land in the first round, Tychonick has come from his ranking outside the first round to start the season to a first-round grade from most scouting outlets.
Playing with the Penticton Vees, the same team that Dante Fabbro featured on a few seasons ago, Tychonick has eight goals and 34 points in 35 games.
Average Ranking: 33.75
"“Red Deer head coach Brent Sutter isn’t easily impressed, but Alexeyev has done it all for the Rebels in what has been a difficult first half. While he doesn’t overly impress in any one area, he’s been admittedly overplayed by Sutter.” (Sam Cosentino, Sportsnet)"
Alexeyev was brought over to North America, when Red Deer selected him with the 49th pick in the 2016 CHL Import Draft.
This is his second season in the WHL. He’s got 31 points in 37 games for the Rebels this season, while taking 24 penalty minutes.
As Cosentino stated, if you can impress a Sutter, there’s something to your game. Keep an eye on the Russian defender at the tail end of the first round.
Next: 4 targets for the Leafs in the 2018 draft
Which player from the mock draft would you want to see the Toronto Maple Leafs draft? Is there a player that should have made the list? Let us know in the comments below.