Buffalo Sabres 2019 NHL Draft Rankings: Looking at potential lottery targets
By Austin Owens
Turcotte is a late riser in the draft rankings simply because he missed half the year due to injury. But teams have been aware of his skill for a long time.
He returned to the USNTDP lineup during the holidays and has been firing on all cylinders ever since. In any other year, he’d be the top American available, and the first line centre on his team, but Hughes
"“Dominant play in Jack Hughes’s absence solidified his standing as the draft’s best two-way center. He should be near the top on every team’s draft board.” – Steve Kournianos, Sporting News"
Turcotte has put up 87 points in 46 games this year after sitting out the majority of the first half. He’s also managed to display a solid 200-foot game while playing on the second line behind Hughes.
A team would’ve picked Turcotte in the top 10 regardless of his production this season. The ridiculous numbers are just the icing on the cake.
He’ll be heading to Wisconsin next season and will likely be one of their top players upon his arrival.
It’s easy to be overshadowed on a line featuring the projected first overall pick in this year’s draft. Zegras has not only stood out while playing alongside Hughes, but he’s also turned in a year that’s vaulted him into the top 10.
He’s a natural centre, be he’s been playing on the first line wing for the USNTDP.
"“A creative player with exciting puck skills. Zegras blends good speed with unique lines to cause separation through the neutral zone and distribute effectively to his mates. He’s been dynamite as the 2C with The Program.” – Cam Robinson, Dobber Prospects"
The talented forward will be heading to Boston University next year. He could be a one and done depending on how his freshman year unfolds.
Boldy rounds out the solid core of USNTDP players featuring in the top 10. He’s one of the players that every team would love to have because of his compete level, physical traits, and, obviously, his talent.
"“A goal scorer first, but vision that makes him a dual threat. One-on-one skills are well above average thanks to silky smooth mitts.” – Sam Cosentino, Sportsnet"
The winger also has a powerful stride and the ability to set up his teammates with ease.
Boldy spent parts of this season in the top six, as well as time on the fourth line. He’s played up and down the lineup and managed to flourish regardless.
He finished the year with 112 points in total – 43 of those came in 28 games against USHL competition.
As is the case with every player from The Program, Boldy will be on his way to the NCAA next year. He’s going to be attending Boston College in 2019. The Eagles will be hoping that he and fellow 2019 draftee Alex Newhook will be able to bring some elite offensive punch to the table.
Some believe that Krebs possesses the best motor of any player in the 2019 class. Pundits are also in agreeance that he is one of the most mentally mature individuals in the draft.
It was a tough season for Krebs. On top of the expectations that come along with being a top draft pick, he also had the pressure of being a captain at just 17.
"“Krebs is an exciting, tenacious, well-rounded player who could certainly be selected inside the top 10. He performs well under pressure, and his elite offensive production is largely due to his excellent vision.” – Hannah Stuart, theScore"
Kootenay had a rough outing in 2018-19, going just 13-45-10 on the year. Krebs was unquestionably the offensive catalyst, as he posted over a point per game over 64 contests.
Every NHL team are looking for high skill, character guys. Krebs is the best example of that in this class. He’s destined to wear a letter at the professional level.
At the start of the season, it was between Dach and Cozens for the top Canadian on the board, and while the Lethbridge centre sits in the higher spot in the rankings, Dach is certainly no slouch.
"“A pass-first centre who owns great awareness and deft puck skills. Uses his body well to protect the puck and exploit seams. He lacks explosiveness with his skating and can stand to play with more pace at times.” – Cam Robinson, Dobber Prospects"
The former top three WHL Bantam Draft pick has turned into a major contributor for the Blades. He posted 73 points in 62 games while just coming up short of a 50-assist season.
Saskatoon made quick work of their first-round matchup, sweeping the Moose Jaw Warriors. The team will have to go up against the Prince Albert Raiders next. That should offer one of the most intriguing matchups in the entire WHL playoffs.
The series should provide Dach with a great platform to showcase himself against one of the best teams in the league.