Toronto Maple Leafs: 2018 NHL Mock Draft – First Edition
By Austin Owens
3. player. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Left Wing. Halifax Mooseheads (QMJHL). Filip Zadina. 104
It was a rough year for the Canucks, who missed the playoffs for the fourth time in the past five seasons. Although it did end on a bittersweet note as the Sedin’s decided to retire, they gave Canucks fans two amazing games to end the season on. In the draft, they get a player who has the potential to be one of the best in the team’s history.
Zadina has a case to be the second player taken in this draft, and it is honestly a toss-up depending on what the team in that spot prefers. But make no mistake, if he’s not gone at two, he will be at three.
The Czech put on a show at the World Juniors and this entire season with the Halifax Mooseheads. He’s got the best shot in the draft by far, and is dangerous anytime he’s got the puck on his stick.
Pick Analysis. Brady Tkachuk. 4. Scouting Report. Left Wing. Boston University Terriers (NCAA). player. 12
Another miserable season is in the books for the Buffalo Sabres and once again, they find themselves in the top 10 of the draft.
They have gone forward-heavy in the first rounds recently. While they could use a defenceman, Tkachuk is a can’t-miss player in this spot of the draft.
He has all the necessary skill to be a top-six forward in the NHL, as well as the same mean streak and chippy play. Some have even said he has more edge to his game, which is scary for any team playing the Sabres.
With Tkachuk and Alex Nylander, Buffalo would have two of the best young wingers hockey can offer at this time in the lineup every night.