Toronto Maple Leafs: 2018 NHL Draft Risers and Fallers in February
By Austin Owens
Faller: Ryan McLeod, Center, Mississauga Steelheads (OHL)
As the younger brother of a former lottery pick in Michael McLeod, Ryan got a lot of hype going into his draft year. But being related to a high pick doesn’t always translate to a guaranteed first-round spot.
Take Matthew Strome, younger brother of top-10 picks Ryan and Dylan. He was taken by Philadelphia in the fourth round of the 2017 draft.
McLeod isn’t going to fall down boards to that extent. However, he has definitely seen a dip in his stock since the start of the season.
With 65 points on the season, he has already blown his previous career-high 42 points out of the water with Mississauga this season.
"Speed runs in the family. Isn’t as hard-nosed as older brother, Michael, but plays a similar game. Missed the 2017 cut-off by a week so developmental arc is a little clearer. – Cam Robinson, Dobber Prospects"
In February, McLeod was only able to muster two goals and five points over 13 games. While the Steelheads have locked up a playoff spot in the OHL’s Eastern Conference, it looks like they could be heading for a matchup with either the Barrie Colts or Hamilton Bulldogs in the first round.
To get through a matchup that big, they will need their top centre to have a great performance to have a chance.