Toronto Maple Leafs: 2018 NHL Mock Draft – First Edition
By Austin Owens
Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds (OHL). Barrett Hayton. player. 119. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Centre. 13
The Stars looked destined for a spot in the NHL postseason. But their faltering play down the stretch has left them just on the outside looking in.
They could use some help down the middle. With no prospects looking immediately ready to take a roster spot, someone like Hayton would be a perfect fit in Dallas.
Scouts have said he is the most mature player in the draft. He’s also pretty good at hockey to boot.
The centre has carved out a spot on the OHL-best Soo Greyhounds and has contributed to the team, despite being one of the younger players in the lineup.
He won’t be relied on right away to take a job. With Tyler Seguin, Radek Faksa, and Jason Spezza still around, there will be time to grow. Which is perfect for Hayton, who has been compared to Patrice Bergeron by some.
Luleå HF (SHL). Isac Lundeström. player. 68. Pick Analysis. Centre. Scouting Report. 14
(Via St. Louis)
If there’s one thing that is deep on the Flyers, it is the middle of the ice. They have taken (at least) one centre in the first round the past three years.
The good thing about Lundeström is his ability to slide out onto the wing. He’s had experience out there during his career in Europe and can produce, whether it be on the wing or at centre.
The skill doesn’t exactly jump out at you with Lundeström. But he’s just solid in all facets of the game. He is a converted defenceman, so he can be trusted in his own zone. But he is also very good at distributing the puck to create offence.
Lundeström looks like a player you notice for all the right reasons, which is why Philadelphia will love him.