Toronto Maple Leafs: 2018 NHL Mock Draft Post-Playoff Edition
By Austin Owens
player. Right Wing. Oshawa Generals (OHL). Serron Noel. 19. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. 68
Morassutti –
The Flyers aren’t in a desperate need to draft a defenceman, which is why they should get the bulking winger out of Oshawa. Obviously, Noel’s size will make people question his skating but that is one of his best attributes, as he took time to work on it with skating coach and former figure skater Shelley Kettles as NHL.com reports.
Noel is described as a raw prospect with other areas of his game in need of development, but his physical brand will attract Philadelphia. There have also been some comparisons made with Blake Wheeler, by NHL Central Scout Karl Stewart:
"“I think of Wheeler when I see Noel just because of his size and feet and hands in tight, and when he puts it all together you can’t get the puck away from him,” Stewart said. “He’s a young kid and it’s scary to think about the player he’ll be when he’s fully developed. His skating is as close to NHL ready when he wants to skate. He can drive you wide and get around you, and he’s got quick acceleration to separate himself from anyone.”"
Don’t be surprised to see Noel go midway through the first round.
player. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Right Wing. Vitali Kravtsov. Traktor Chelyabinsk (KHL). 20. 67
White –
Goal-scoring has been an issue in LA for a number of years and their early exit at the hands of Vegas proved that sentiment. It makes sense that offence should be their focus at the draft and it starts with Kravstov.
Now, you probably searched his hockeydb page and are automatically thinking, “Are you nuts!?” but the Russian winger has the potential of being a late-round steal.
The 18-year-old found himself playing in the MHL, VHL and KHL, spending the most time in the latter league. He plays with speed and physicality, but also possesses a very accurate wrist shot. Kravstov reached a level in the playoffs for Traktor Chelyabinsk, where he scored six goals and added five assists in 16 games.
He’ll be a project, especially when it comes to his play away from the puck, but give him time and the Kings can have themselves a top-six forward.