Toronto Maple Leafs: 2018 NHL Mock Draft – First Edition
By Austin Owens
player. 85. Scouting Report. Grigori Denisenko. 17. Pick Analysis. Left Wing. Loko Yaroslavl (MHL)
The Devils got a gift last year in the form of Nico Hischier with the first overall pick in the 2017 draft. And they got another gift this season by securing a wildcard spot in the East.
Denisenko is an easy selection for New Jersey, who has taken a centre with their last two first round picks. The Russian forward displays great speed and ability to make plays while flying down the wing. He missed part of the season due to injury, but has bounced back well and set himself up nicely to go just outside the lottery.
Jesperi Kotkaniemi. 18. 113. Scouting Report. Centre. Ässät (Liiga). player. Pick Analysis
There have been some concerns from draft pundits over the skating ability of Kotkaniemi. But that’s about the only aspect of his game which needs improvement.
Kotkaniemi can play on the wing and down the middle depending on what a team needs. Playing in the top flight in Finland, he played in all situations, including the penalty kill.
With the puck, the Fin is great. He makes solid passes and is a great finisher around the net.
The Blue Jackets have most of their former top prospects playing for the team. So bringing in new blood to build their system back up is pivotal. Kotkaniemi would be a great first step.