Toronto Maple Leafs: 2018 NHL Draft Player Rankings
By Austin Owens
Best defenceman in the QMJHL
Average Ranking: 13.75
"“Hard-nosed kid who has settled in after a slow start to the season. Has an acute ability to raise his level of play when the competition calls for it. He has a solid defensive foundation that puts him near the head of this D class.” (Sam Cosentino, Sportsnet)"
McIsaac has carved out his spot as the best defenceman to come out of the QMJHL this year. The offensive side hasn’t come around as much.
His 26 points are ninth-best on the Mooseheads and second amongst defenders on the team. He was the second-overall pick in the QMJHL Entry Draft for a reason. The NHL team that takes him will be very happy, but he could probably use another year of junior before he’s ready for the pros.
Average Ranking: 14.25
"“A jack-of-all-trades player with a nice tool belt. Great edge work, acceleration, vision and puck-protection skills. The 17-year-old is already a consummate worker in the defensive end and is a very safe selection as he has a pro-level approach.” (Cam Robinson, Dobber Prospects)"
Veleno is the first player to ever be granted exceptional status in the QMJHL. The forward hasn’t lit it up like other exceptional players during his time in the league, dropping him down the draft ranks a fair bit.
He started this season with 31 points in as many games with Saint John, before being moved to Drummondville. He has 10 points in eight games with the Voltigeurs so far.