Toronto Maple Leafs: 2018 NHL Mock Draft – First Edition
By Austin Owens
11. 109. Pick Analysis. Centre. Drummondville Voltigeurs (QMJHL). Joe Veleno. player. Scouting Report
The Hurricanes find themselves in a similar position to last year’s draft, picking just outside the top 10.
With the stockpile of young defenders the team has picked up in the past few drafts, they can now focus on adding to their forward depth.
Veleno will add to a solid duo down the middle for the future with 2017 first-rounder Martin Necas.
The first player in the QMJHL to be granted exceptional status, Veleno has found his stride this season since being traded from Saint John to Drummondville.
He’s got the right frame for a centre and a great blend of vision, IQ and skating. If he can live up to the potential he came into the CHL with, he will be a great pickup for the Hurricanes.
Ty Smith. 106. Pick Analysis. Defence. Spokane Chiefs (WHL). Scouting Report. 12. player
With a forward already in the books for this draft. The Islanders have a chance to grab a top defender as well.
Smith has been rising up the board over the course of this season with his strong play. He has a smaller frame, but offers skill in every zone. He wore a letter for Spokane this season and has the leadership abilities to do that once again when he reaches the pro ranks.
The Islanders haven’t selected a defender in the first round since they took Ryan Pulock in 2013. So adding to their defensive depth is something they should take a hard look at in this draft.
With Johnny Boychuk getting up there in age, they need to stock the shelves with talent like Smith for the future.