Toronto Maple Leafs: 2018 NHL Mock Draft – First Edition
By Austin Owens
Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Mississauga Steelheads (OHL). Ryan McLeod. player. Centre. 23. 105
The younger brother of New Jersey first-rounder Michael, Ryan started out the season projected to be a lottery pick. His stock fell a bit and he could find himself outside the top 20 in the first round.
If that’s the case, the Ducks won’t be complaining. Like his brother, McLeod is able to fly around the ice with little effort, and he can make plays while going at top speeds.
"As one OHL GM told me “where his brother Michael (NJ) smashes down the front door to score, Ryan sneaks in through the side.” – Jeff Marek, Sportsnet"
Anaheim could use that speed in their lineup, as the likes of Ryan Getzlaf and Ryan Kesler aren’t blowing past people nowadays. McLeod also has the hockey-sense and play-making ability which make him a solid look for any team at the back end of the first round.
Serron Noel. 98. Right Wing. Oshawa Generals (OHL). 24. player. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis
Noel is a big body. Standing at 6 foot 5, he is someone you can’t miss out there on the ice. He’s come around since the start of the season and put himself in a good position to be a first-rounder.
He’s got a great skating stride and can accelerate quickly. Something which is coveted, especially in someone who is that big. Noel has good play-making ability, but is much better at putting the puck in himself.
Minnesota has some work to do with rebuilding their system. Noel is one of the younger players who is draft eligible. He is proving he’s got a high ceiling. With another year under his belt, he could turn into a big deal, literally.