The 2024 NHL Draft is only a few days away, so I felt it was fitting to do a final mock draft on the 1st round of the 2024 Draft in a preview of the draft. It is worth noting that a few trades could go down between now and the draft, so the ownership of the picks could change by then. This is a mock draft of the 1st round of the 2024 NHL Draft.
1. SJ-Macklin CELEBRINI (C), 6’0/196, Boston University (NCAA)
Macklin Celebrini is the Consensus No.1 Pick in the 2024 NHL Draft and could be a franchise-changing player for whoever gets the fortune of landing him. Celebrini came into the 2023-24 season highly hyped and more than delivered on that hype. After an impressive World Juniors tournament at the U20 WJC, where he had 4 goals and 8 points in 5 games, Celebrini went on to dominate the NCAA with Boston University, scoring 32 goals and 64 points in 38 games. Celebrini finished the season with a 1.68 Points per game average; this accomplishment is even more impressive when you take into consideration he did this as a Freshman. Celebrini is an exceptional rush offense creator with a solid base of pro-ready tools, he jumpstarts offensive transitions with solid defensive positioning, great intensity, and refined technique in board battles. He has the technical abilities to either skate it out himself while evading pressure with his crossovers or to find an outlet and outrace back-checkers to open ice to make himself a shooting threat. In addition to his offensive skillset, he is also defensively sound, creative, and agile, with a knack for winning board battles. The tools and the toolkit make Celebrini the runaway first-overall pick at this point in the season, and he has all the makings of a top-line, do-it-all center at the NHL level. Celebrini’s potential is sky high given the high-end skill, creativity and drive that he possesses. He has a top-line center with superstar potential written all over him. He’s decimating older competition night in and night out and has the size and stature to handle himself in any situation. He’s a strong facilitator with the puck, being a major factor at even strength or on the top power-play unit. He has star potential written all over him, the San Jose Sharks are landing a first-line center and franchise centerpiece for many years down the road.
2. CHI-Ivan DEMIDOV (LW/RW), 6’0/192, SKA St. Petersburg (KHL)
Ivan Demidov is the most creative, dynamic, and skillful puck handler we’ve seen since at least Jack Hughes. His seemingly innate escapability, versatile inside edges, and great mobility combine with his handling skill to consistently create scoring chances for himself and his linemates with tremendous flair. While there was little debate for us at #1, Demidov was our unanimous pick at #2, garnering support from all those who have watched him play. He breaks the mold (somewhat) of the typical skilled Russian winger, showing off an impressive motor, flashes of strong backchecking ability, and a ceaseless desire to create in all three zones. Demidov plays a high-octane brand of hockey that puts defenders in bad spots because he combines agility, vision and creative passing ability. Demidov’s ability to identify passing lanes and execute passes that most other players could only dream of can leave you in awe at times. With dazzling puckhandling ability, Demidov creates space for himself regularly. He can draw pressure and manipulate defenders into moving where he wants them before firing a perfectly timed pass through the emerging lane. Among players with at least 10 games played, Demidov’s 2.00 points per game are the best all-time for a draft-eligible in the MHL by a wide margin. Demidov is already a game-breaking forward who can move the puck effortlessly and there’s no question he’d be a fantastic partner to some of the best prospects in the NHL today. His production in the MHL is comparable to Patrick Kane’s 2006-07 season with the Ontario Hockey League’s London Knights. Whether Demidov can reach the heights of that future Hall-of-Famer in the NHL is another question. Demidov may have the highest offensive upside of any player in the NHL draft class. Pairing Connor Bedard with a player like Ivan Demidov would create a filthy dynamic duo down the road.
3. ANA-Artyom LEVSHUNOV (D), 6’2/209, Michigan State Univ. (NCAA)
Artyom Levshunov has one of the most exciting tool kits in this draft as a big, right-handed defender who skates incredibly well. The Belarussian tore up the USHL last season, with 42 points in 61 games, making him the league’s fifth-highest-scoring defender as a 17-year-old. His physical and statistical profile reminds me a lot of Owen Power, though Levshunov produced more points than Power did at the same age in the USHL. Levshunov has a very projectable game, with the size, skating, and offense to be a great NHL defender. He plays with a ton of confidence, which can be a bit of a double-edged sword at times. Levshunov’s offensive game is dynamic, with his smooth skating serving as the catalyst for each thing he does well. He’s strong in breakout/entry situations, has some clever stretch passes in his toolkit, and walks the blueline with confidence. He is still a bit of a raw prospect at this point, which means there’s a lot of room for growth. Levshunov was a poor defender in the USHL when he first arrived but finished the year as a strong two-way player. His first NCAA mirrored that closely, with an increased defensive responsibility as the year wore on. I think Levshunov could make the jump to the AHL next year quite easily, though I don’t think another season in College would be a bad thing for him at all. There’s definitely a lot of room for growth in his game, but Levhusnov has a ton of potential and will be selected very early this year. Artyom Levshunov will be a Top 3 pick in the 2024 NHL Draft and could be the first Belarusian-born player to be drafted in the lottery. A low-end projection would say that Levshunov is likely to be a good top-four defender who provides most of his value on the offensive side of the puck while being at least a serviceable defender in his own end. For that reason, Levshunov will be taken no later than the third pick because he is a relatively safe pick. The Anaheim Ducks already have some good young offensive defensemen in the system like Pavel Mintyukov and Olen Zellweger, adding Levshunov to that group of defensemen would build a frightening defensive core.
4. CBJ-Cayden LINDSTROM (C), 6’3/214, Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL)
The three S’s that teams absolutely covet with players are; speed, size, and skill. Medicine Hat Tigers centreman Cayden Lindstrom utilizes those strengths in his game consistently. Coming in at a towering 6-foot-4, 205 pounds Cayden Lindstrom has the makeup of the kind of top-six center that NHL teams covet, and for good reason. The Towering 6’4 pivot has high-end athletic tools and a defensive upside, but his game is in no way defined by these attributes. Lindstrom’s skills are best showcased on the offensive side of the puck and in the attacking zone. Lindstrom is highly effective in transition where he can build a head of steam to create entries and quality rush chances. Lindstrom is an absolute force when he’s on the ice, displaying great strength and offensive awareness. He was on pace for an impressive draft year production-wise, as he had 26 goals and 46 points in 32 games. However, he has been sidelined with an upper-body injury that has kept him out for some time, but it’s one that isn’t a concern for scouts as he’s still ranked high. Lindstrom’s power-forward-like game instantly takes over. He constantly shows the competitive nature and drive that makes him excel. Be it establishing a forecheck down low and battling along the boards, he’s constantly involved to win the puck over. Without the puck, he has no problem laying the body and making a big open ice hit to show his presence. Lindstrom utilizes his size to his advantage very well, getting the inside edge on defenders, and has the strength to instantly push them off when dealing with sustained pressure and bully his way to the high-danger area. His long reach and strong puck control allow him to maintain that space between him and defenders making it difficult to knock the puck off him. Combined that with his smooth skating stride when attacking the middle, he’s a dominant force. Defensively, Lindstrom is just as effective as those same strengths allow him to be the first one on the back check, break up plays and regain possession to transition the other way. He’s strong in one-on-one coverage and keeps attackers to the outside taking time and space away from them when he closes in. As a result of his power-forward game, Lindstrom already possesses a lot qualities that can get him to the NHL sooner rather than later. He definitely has the potential and upside to be a top line centre, second line as a worst-case scenario. He easily takes control of a line and is the centre piece in any five-on-five or power play situation. He may not be an elite-level player, but he definitely can be an impactful top-line player. Cayden Lindstrom definitely has the potential and upside to be a top-line centre, second-line as a worst-case scenario, and is exactly the type of center that Columbus should look to build their team around.
5. MTL-Anton SILAYEV (D), 6’7/207, Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod (KHL)
Anton Silayev is an excellent defensive defenseman who has been an absolute force in big minutes for his team in the KHL (Russia’s best pro league) this season, despite him not turning 18 until April. He was relatively unknown before this season, but broke out in a big way in a full time KHL spot this Fall, immediately jumping into the first round and even the top-10 conversation. While most of the standouts in this year’s draft are hovering around six feet, Russian dman Anton Silayev quite literally STANDS OUT from the crowd. At 17 years old, Silayev stands at 6-7 and weighs 207 pounds. Not only that, his stride has taken strides over the summer, and he has become a sneakily strong skater. Even more interesting? He’s getting real minutes as a 17-year-old in the KHL. There’s no other way to look at it, Anton Silayev is legit. He’s equally been playing on his off-side, and excelling on the right. Silayev lit up KHL scoresheets for the first month of the season and garnered a fair bit of attention, but fell back down to earth, and became the defensive stalwart that he has become known as. While he remains very raw, especially for a defenseman playing in the KHL as a draft-eligible, his tools are rather unique and the ceiling is high. Silayev covers a ton of ice, needing only three or four strides to cross the neutral zone. While he’s a bit wonky on his skates and rarely looks graceful, he uses his skating very effectively on both sides of the puck. Defensively, Silayev relies on his extraordinarily long reach and powerful strides to close gaps quickly and very aggressively. Early in the season, he regularly over-committed, leading to odd-man rushes against, and while he can still be aggressive to a fault, this element of his game has improved significantly. With the puck on his stick, Silayev flashes above-average passing mechanics and vision, which allows him to have a positive impact in the breakout, defaulting to stretch passes and give-and-go’s. His decision-making both with and without the puck and his composure remain real works in progress, which may end up being the deciding factor in him ending up falling out of the top 10. Comparable to Tyler Myers, current defenseman for the Vancouver Canucks, who was drafted 12th overall in his draft, Anton Silayev has a very similar skillset to Tyler Myers but has a higher offensive upside. At worst, Anton Silayev could be what Tyler Myers is now, if all pans out, he could turn out to be a Victor Hedman-type defenseman. If a prospect has Victor Hedman potential, and is 6’7″, it is hard for me to imagine he would drop pass the
5th pick. Even though the Montreal Canadiens don’t really need defenseman, a team can never have too many quality prospect defenseman.
6. UTA- Zeev Buium (D), 6’0/185, University of Denver (NCAA)
Zeev Buium is a player many fans should learn the name of. He is a smooth-skating defender with strong skills at both ends of the ice and has an extremely high IQ. He has maintained over a point-per-game average in the NCAA with the University of Denver this season and has established himself as a lock as a top-10 pick, heading into the upcoming draft. He might be the most well-rounded defender in this upcoming draft class considering his IQ at both ends of the ice and could be someone a team takes a gamble on as he seems to only be getting better as the days go by. While he doesn’t play a flashy style of game, he is still able to be evasive on the rush and create chances for himself and his teammates. His smooth skating is something that should get the attention of plenty of NHL teams, and he could be considered one of the strongest skaters in the draft class. He can find open space with his speed and ability to move laterally while moving up the ice, and his speed with the puck on his stick is simply phenomenal. His production offensively may draw some worries from fans who could believe he is too one-sided, but that just isn’t the case. He is just as strong offensively as he is in his own end. For reference, Buium is producing at a 1.22 points-per-game pace, which is the highest for a defenceman in NCAA history. The ability to create space and evade pressure at the point is an important trait for any defender looking to impact the offensive side of the game, and it’s an area where Buium subtly excels. He sets up opponents by feinting a stride to one side and then shifting his weight to quickly accelerate the other way. His puckhandling isn’t flashy with noticeable dekes, but he has displayed the ability to open the blade of his stick to indicate he plans on going in one direction before attacking the opponent’s heels once they make their move. As crazy as it sounds, Buium could go as high as second overall in the 2024 draft. It’s unlikely, but his skill set and his production levels are simply out of this world. I would consider him underappreciated and underrated heading into the draft. His shot isn’t talked about a lot but when he chooses to use it, it is accurate and powerful; it can either find the back of the net or cause havoc in front of the net by generating a rebound. Buium has the potential to be a top-pair defenseman in the NHL if improves on the little things in his game and progresses at them. For Utah, they really need to draft a franchise defense and Zeev Buium has the potential to be that type of defenseman.
7 OTT-Sam DICKINSON (D), 6’3/203, London Knights (OHL)
Many expected London Knights defenseman Sam Dickinson to take a big step forward and earn more meaningful minutes and responsibility this season. He definitely showed why they acquired him from the Niagara Ice Dogs as he continued to show great potential in his rookie season. In his draft year, Dickinson has elevated his game to new heights as a competitive, two-way defenseman. Dickinson finished the regular season fourth among defensemen in the Ontario Hockey League scoring 70 points and fourth in assists with 52. In addition, he’s taken the second most shots of any defenseman with 232. Dickinson already excels with his strong defensive game and IQ without the puck. He defends extremely well against the rush and within his own zone, something that other defenders are inconsistent with this early on in their development. That aspect to his game is nearly pro-ready as he already has that advantage over other defenders his age. He’s already showing that he’s consistent with his positioning and decision-making, utilizing his size to his advantage to get the inside edge to break up plays down low or along the boards. He’s able to execute breakups effectively, knowing when to step up and get into the passing lanes with an active stick or tie up an attacking forward to regain possession and quickly clear the puck out. He’s excellent with his gap control, keeping the puck carrier to the outside and using his size and speed to neutralize them getting to the middle of the ice and even boxing them out in front of the net. When he’s on the attack, he reads the situation well, knowing when to back off and prioritize defense when he needs to. Even if there’s a breakup or a turnover, he has quick awareness and reaction time to get back and get into position. There isn’t any doubt that Dickinson can be a very impactful top pairing defenseman. He’s a player that can be relied on in any situation and eat minutes, be it on the power play or when you need to protect a lead. He’s going to be a player that will get the job done. His strong defensive game is going to make it tough for opposing players to go up against him and if his offense translates to the pro-level, he could be even more dangerous. His play is very reminiscent of Florida Panthers defenseman Aaron Ekblad as he’s been a big impact player for them. The Senators could use Sam Dickinson as early as in the 2024-25 season, especially after they trade away Jakob Chychurun and he could grow into a top 4 role very quickly.
8. SEA-Zayne PAREKH (D), 6’0/181, Saginaw Spirit (OHL)
Zayne Parekh is the most dynamic defenseman in this year’s draft class. Parekh is the king of deception and misdirection as he will line up his eyesight and hips in one direction getting opponents to chase in that direction before flipping his hips fluidly and cutting up or cutting back against the grain unevaded to the net. Parekh is an excellent passer and playmaker and works the give-and-go to a high level. To top things off, Parekh is a gifted goal scorer who can rip the puck past OHL goalies. The Saginaw Spirit defenseman has an elite sense of the offensive game, making him a threat every time he crosses center ice with or without the puck. He finished the 2023-24 season with 33 goals and 96 points through 66 games, and also put up a point per game in the Memorial Cup. which is bonkers, is definitely a player to watch at the Memorial Cup this spring. He plays an aggressive offensive style that looks to attack off the line into the slot or even the front of the net or below the goal line. He’ll also regularly involve himself in the rush much like a winger does, driving down the wall in control to look to put defenders on their heels with his skating and attack into his shot or create an odd-man rush. At times he can be a bit too smooth to the point where it becomes lackadaisical with the puck. This results in throwing soft no-look passes directly to the other team or allowing the puck to fall off his stick as he wasn’t careful enough with it. Defensively, Parekh is aggressive and effectively breaking up passes through the neutral zone. He times his pinches well forcing turnovers that he can immediately convert into offensive chances. Although he has improved as a defender, he takes a shift off in the defensive zone in favor of offensive changes, and his play away from the puck also needs to be improved. The best NHL comparison for Zayne Parekh is Ryan Ellis, who was a monster in the OHL and was a very highly hyped defenseman, and many thought he would be one of the best offensive defensemen one day. Overall, the excellent skating and offensive instincts and traits are incredibly valuable that you will accept some of the warts with his game because this potential is too good to pass up. Parekh’s game is one of dynamism, creativity, and surgical precision in his activations from the point, he could be the most skilled blueliner that Canada has produced since Cale Makar. If the Seattle Kraken are able to land Zayne Parekh with the 8th pick, they would be getting one of the best, if not the best offensive defenseman in this draft, and could be one of the best PP Quarterbacks in
a few years.
9 CGY-Tij IGINLA (C/RW), 6’0/192, Kelwona Rockets (WHL)
When your dad is in the Hockey Hall of Fame, it can be hard to emerge from his shadow. Jarome Iginla was renowned for the intensity and work ethic he brought to every game, leading to the unofficial title as the last of the great power forwards. He was also a talented goal-scorer, and despite leaving the team over a decade ago, he still holds the Calgary Flames’ record for the most career goals and most career points. It is only fitting for the Calgary Flames to draft his son Tij if he should be available when it is time to for them to draft. Tij finished his draft season with 47 goals and 84 points in 64 games, surpassing Jarome’s 1994-95 totals by 14 goals and 13 points. While his father blended physicality with a good shot, Iginla has shown much better skill with the puck. He has an incredibly quick release that can pack a lot of power, and he can fire the puck from any angle. On top of a strong shot, Iginla also has very soft hands, and the control he shows with the puck is just a fraction lower than elite puck-handlers like Berkly Catton. He can move the puck so quickly between his sticks that opponents are left stumbling, which he uses to create space for either himself or a teammate for a scoring opportunity. Iginla is a strong skater, he is strong on his skates, allowing him to get the most out of his edges. He can change direction in a fraction of a second and still have enough momentum to pull off the same move two or three more times. Watching Iginla cycle through the neutral zone or seeing him pick up a loose puck and pass it to a teammate in one fluid movement hints at the high level of intelligence he has at his disposal. Iginla is all but guaranteed to go in the top half of the 2024 Draft, but how high is another question. He’s been one of the fastest-rising prospects, and there’s little that he can’t do, which has been on full display in the Western Hockey League (WHL) playoffs. Already, he has six goals and 22 shots in four games, including a hat trick in Game 1. Iginla will slide in easily to a top-six spot in the future. He already has plenty of pro habits, and as he continues to build strength, he’ll become a dangerous sniper who will be impossible to knock off the puck. Iginla will slide in easily to a top-six spot in the future. He already has plenty of pro habits, and as he continues to build strength, he’ll become a dangerous sniper who will be impossible to knock off the puck. I think his style of game is similar to Chris Kreider’s as both players are hard-working, goal-scoring wingers who aren’t afraid to use physicality. Although he is listed as a center, Tij Iginla should excel as a top 6 goal-scoring winger in the NHL, which is exactly what the Calgary Flames need. Calgary will be stocked if Tij Iginla is still available at the 9th pick, and it would be a no brainer for them the select him here.
10 NJ-Berkly CATTON (C), 5’11/174, Spokane Chiefs (WHL)
Berkly Catton is an excellent center prospect who has had a phenomenal draft season, and it all began with a dominant performance in the Hlinka Gretzky Cup back in the Summer. Catton captained Team Canada to a gold medal finish, leading the tournament in goals (eight) and points (10) in just five games. He has carried that momentum into the WHL wonderfully this year, giving him a chance to hear his name very early on draft day. Catton excels in all facets of the game, with no glaring weaknesses whatsoever besides his lack of size. He is excellent on his edges which more than makes up for his average top speed, allowing him to blow by opponents with clever routes and pure agility. Catton is so slippery in fact that he draws a ton of penalties at the junior level, which he can often capitalize on as the motor that runs his team’s top power-play unit. He’s a great passer and his strong foundation of puck skill allows him to release passes from spots that most prospects can’t even imagine while still being in control. He makes a ton of tough plays look routine in traffic where defenders have to be ready for him to either deke through them or catch their attention for long enough to pass to an open teammate. He’s been excellent as a center despite his size so far, winning a ton of faceoffs and checking really consistently as a top-line pivot for the past two seasons. Catton works hard defensively and wins a ton of puck battles through timing and consistency rather than pure size or strength, he’s got a real chance to be a center in the NHL when all is said and done. This year, he has taken his scoring to a whole new level, with 113 points through 66 games. That is a points-per-game rate of 1.71, which is a higher scoring rate than Zach Benson played at in the 2022-23 season (1.63 PPG). Catton is currently fourth in WHL scoring and third in goal scoring. His ability to put up points this year despite the lack of support on his team is downright remarkable, with only three of his teammates projected to reach 50+ points. Berkly Catton is a near-lock as a top-10 pick this year, with room to rise if he has a good showing in the WHL playoffs, he’s a excellent center prospect. While Berkly Catton’s skillet isn’t elite, he is excellent at everything and doesn’t really have any noticeable weaknesses, which is rare for a prospect. Drafting Berkly Catton would give the NJ Devils another natural center and it would allow Jack Hughes to play the wing, which he showed he could play last year. If Catton plays on the same line as Jack Hughes, that could be a freightening combination for years to come.
11. BUF-Konsta HELENIUS (C/RW), 5’11/181, Jukerit (Liiga)
Playing significant games in Liiga at 16 years old is a pretty special designation for Helenius. What’s more impressive, he actually put up some points. He scored three goals and had eight assists in 33 Liiga appearances, which is actually pretty special given his age. When drafting 18-year-olds, NHL teams know that they are not getting a polished player. Many junior players struggle with the defensive side of the game and could add some strength before they are ready for the professional level. However, that doesn’t apply to Konsta Helenius, who may be one of the most well-rounded prospects available in 2024. Helenius was fourth in primary points-per-game among all 2024 prospects playing junior. His production fell once he jumped up against pros, but the fact he still put up 0.33 points per game in 33 games in one of the best pro hockey leagues in the world is impressive. He also had success on the international stage with Finland’s U17 and U18 teams and was routinely one of their top players. Konsta Helenius is a dynamic playmaking Winger, who has experience playing center as well; he does such a good job identifying lanes and attacking into them/taking what the defense gives him. He’ll look for his own look when it’s there or play in a quick give-and-go when spacing tightens up. He seems to create constantly. Despite being a smaller forward, Helenius displays great competitive and puck-protection skills. He’s able to quickly get the inside edge with his speed and has the ability to constantly battle and engage on the forecheck. Helenius has fantastic vision and playmaking upside, attracting defenders before sliding pucks to his open teammates. Although he’s undersized, his excellent speed, skill, and vision have allowed him to be a regular contributor in Liiga at the age of 16. He’s got a great motor in his game which combined with all his offensive talents should allow him to be a very good pro despite his frame. His physical play, speed, and overall skill make him dominant, even at 5-foot-10. I could see Helenius creeping up into the top five, maybe even challenging for a top three spot. The 5-foot-10 forward is undersized, but he makes up for it with his speed, agility, and playmaking. Helenius isn’t afraid to land some hits, and he’s as competitive as it gets. He plays like a smaller Sebastian Aho, and like his coach former NHLer Oli Jokinen points out, he is a smart prospect, who finds a way to stand out, night in and night out. Despite his sub-six-foot stature, I think he can continue to be a center in the NHL. He is just so smart on the ice and can see the game several steps ahead of his competition, which makes him a valuable two-way player, and his ability to set up and read plays gives him the skill to center any line. He should be able to fit nicely into any second line in the NHL when he comes over from Europe and could end up becoming a 60 to 70-point scorer. This would be an excellent pick for the Buffalo Sabres at 11, who could use a 2nd line center to play behind Tage Thompson.
12. PHI-Carter YAKEMCHUK (D), 6’3/203, Calgary Hitmen (WHL)
Carter Yakemchuk is a big, 6-foot-3 offensive defenseman with great range and tools, a standout offensive game, and top powerplay upside. Yakemchuk immediately jumps off the page as a 6’3, RHD with a booming point shot and dynamic puckhandling. Yakemchuk possesses a level of supreme confidence with the puck that allows him to create difficult zone entries, dangle through pressure at the attacking blueline, and fire dangerous shots on net. As a result, Yakemchuk was second among CHL defencemen in goals, behind only Zayne Parekh. In transition, Yakemchuk’s hands are his best asset as he is not a particularly adept skater or transition playmaker. He is fast for his size, but his mechanics are poor, and lacks acceleration. However good his upside and offensive potential may be, his hockey IQ is not and strength and his decision-making can leave you scratching your head at times. Most glaring are Yakemchuk’s issues on defense, stemming from a combination of mentality and awareness. Yakemchuk is physical and overly aggressive, leading to hit-chasing, getting burned, and failed entry denials. Yakemchuk also frequently loses his checks, misses coverage, and forgets his responsibilities. Carter Yakemchuk has the upside of a top-pair offensive defenseman, though it will take time to get to that point and he will need to be paired with a reliable partner at first. If his defensive game can catch up a bit over the next few years, then I think Yakemchuk has the potential to be a top-pairing, all-star level defenseman whose calling card is offense, in the mold of Brent Burns. Philadelphia needs to improve their defensive core, and adding a offensive defenseman such as Carter Yakemchuk, and despite the weaknesses he has currently on the defensive end, he might have the highest offensive potential among defenseman in this draft.
13. MIN-Beckett SENNECKE (RW), 6’2/181, Oshawa Generals (OHL)
Beckett Sennecke has seen his draft stock rise in recent months due to his performance with the Oshawa Generals down the stretch and into the playoffs. Thanks to Sennecke and Colorado Avalanche 2023 first-rounder Calum Ritchie‘s efforts, they blew by the Barrie Colts and Ottawa 67’s in the first two rounds, and are currently in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) Semifinal up 3-1 over the North Bay Battalion. Sennecke has nine goals and 20 points in 13 games and is riding an eight-game point streak with five multipoint games and 14 points. Sennecke is a 6 foot 3, burgeoning power forward who is a rare breed of size, skating, playmaking, and soft hands. Sennecke has the potential to become a significant threat in the NHL. As he fills into his frame, he should be able to reintroduce that “puck hound” attribute to his game since he will likely become more confident on the forecheck with some added strength. Despite a fully developed physical toolkit, Sennecke has been a force in the OHL this season. His shot and playmaking alone make him worthy of a first-round pick, but his other strengths in size, hands and skating push him over the top. In fact, he’s been described as one of the three best playmakers in the 2024 draft class, capable of putting up 50-60 assists as a winger in the NHL someday. That type of dual-threat from the wing position is a rarity in the NHL and could make Sennecke a valuable commodity in the draft and in his NHL future. Sennecke’s ceiling in the NHL is pretty high as he could become a playmaking top-line winger capable of hitting 70-80 points a season. At worst, his skillset will still allow him to be a middle-six winger with a 40-50-point upside. Because Sennecke is a player who needs a few years to develop, Minnesota is the perfect place for him to land because they still have Zuccarello for a few years, and once his contract is up, Sennecke can step right in and contribute.
14. SJ-Cole EISERMAN (LW), 6’0/196, US National U18 Team (NTDP)/ USNTDP Juniors (USHL)
Cole Eiserman stood out at the U-18 World Championship against older competition. His chemistry with top 2025 prospect James Hagens was remarkable, with Eiserman finishing the year with 69 goals and 104 points in 62 games. That’s good for third in team scoring this year and second behind Jack Hughes’s 116-point season among U-17 USNTDP skaters ever. Eiserman is as pure of a goal-scorer as it gets, with the American star drawing comparisons to Auston Matthews and Alex Ovechkin thanks to his unstoppable release. Like Matthews, Eiserman jumped up to the U-18 USNTDP lineup as a 16-year-old. Matthews had modest numbers, scoring 12 goals and 17 points in 20 games. In comparison, Eiserman has 25 goals and 30 points in 17 games with the U-18 team, highlighted by his eight goals and nine points in four World Championship games. Eiserman’s season has been one of the best in USNTDP history, which, considering some of the talent that’s come through like Matthews, Patrick Kane, Matthew Tkachuk, Jack Eichel, and Jack Hughes, is quite astounding. The 2024 NHL Draft doesn’t have a phenom like Connor Bedard, but both Cole Eiserman and Macklin Celebrini represent the type of prospect that a team can build around but is not a generational talent. Eiserman is one of the trickier players to project in the NHL, on one hand, his shot in and of itself is already top-of-an-NHL-lineup quality and he could very well fix the issues he has with his game in a year or two outside of the NHL. He is arguably the best pure goal scorer in the entire 2024 NHL Draft, however, he has a reputation as a one-dimensional player and lacks speed and ability to create in transition. Eiserman has to play with an elite playmaker in order to succeed at a high level at the NHL level. Despite some weaknesses in his game, Eiserman should still be a
top-six, goal-scoring winger for many, many years. He has legitimate 40-plus goal potential if he develops correctly and gets paired with the right playmaking center. The reason why this is a no brainer selection for San Jose is because
when Eiserman played with Celebrini with Shattuck St. Mary’s U14 team and completely teared up the league, and their skillsets fit perfectly together.
15. DET-Michael BRANDSEGG-NYGARD (RW), 6’1/207, Skelleftea AIK (SHL)
Michael Brandsegg-Nygard might not be the most popular prospect heading into the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, but there is much to like about his game. The main thing that should catch the attention of NHL scouts is how much of a team player he is and how his vision helps him see the ice to create opportunities for his teammates. His offensive game speaks for itself with an impressive stat line of eight goals and 10 assists for 18 points through 41 games this season.
Brandsegg-Nygard should be the highest-drafted Norwegian hockey player ever, and certainly the first to be selected in the first round. Brandsegg-Nygård might be one of the most complete players in the upcoming 2024 NHL Entry Draft. While some players usually have one strength with their offensive game that stands out to many scouts, he has several strengths and doesn’t neglect any of them. It also helps that he is viewed as one of the strongest defensive-minded forwards in the upcoming draft, so translating his game from Europe to North America shouldn’t be too difficult. Usually, bigger players neglect their skating ability and try to stand out with another trait, but not Brandsegg-Nygård. His ability to get up to speed and beat players in puck races even with a larger stature than most is impressive. There shouldn’t be much question as to where Brandsegg-Nygård ends up going in the draft. He could sneak into the top 7-10 and have a team take a chance on him, but he will likely be taken around the 11-15 mark. Michael Brandsegg-Nygard projects to be a solid second-line forward in the NHL like Travis Konecny, who has been a really solid goal scorer in the league. Everything thing about Brandsegg-Nygard just screams a typical Steve Yzerman pick, who really loves drafting European players who are great two way players. If drafted by the Red Wings, it wouldn’t be surprising if Brandsegg-Nygard makes the NHL squad as early in 2024-25.
16. STL-Michael HAGE (C), 6’1/190, Chicago Steel (USHL)
Michael Hage is a smaller forward who possesses quickness, agility, and intelligence, like most of his peers in the position. However, his greatest attribute is his excellent skating ability. His pristine edgework and powerful first three strides allow him to move quickly and overwhelm his opponents. He combines his speed with his hands to blow by defenders and create numerous scoring opportunities. He has a unique way of using his hands on his shot, creating dominant deception angles that make it nearly impossible for the goalies to predict where his shot is headed. When he combines the deception angles with his quick release, the goalie stands no chance of saving the puck when he has the space to shoot. Hage exhibits a high level of intelligence in all three zones, which is something many young players require assistance with. This enables him to be in the right place at the right time. With increased strength, Hage’s shot will become more complex and eventually become a deadly asset. Additionally, his size will better equip him to play against larger players within the league and protect the puck more effectively. In 54 USHL games with the Chicago Steel this season, Hage scored 33 goals and 75 points, plus a point per game in the playoffs. Hage has the skill set to become an elite two-way center who can do it all on both sides of the ice. With the ability to see the ice and move the puck well, his hope to build on his size and grow his defensive game, and his character, he has the potential to become a formidable Jack-Eichel-type player. He could blossom into a second-line center who can play on both the penalty kill and the power play one day. The St. Louis Blues could use a great second line center to play behind Robert Thomas; although St.Louis has a host of top prospects who are centers, you can never have to many centers.
17. WSH-Stian SOLBERG (D), 6’2/205, Valerenga (NOR)
Defenseman Stian Solberg has been increasing his stock since the World Junior Championship. He finished with 15 points in 42 games for Vålerenga. While Norway’s top league may not be as strong compared to others, the 18-year-old proved to be very effective and his game has continued to stand out. He added another nine points in 17 playoff games, before representing his country at the World Hockey Championship that’s taking place in Czechia. He’s already in a top-four role, averaging 23 minutes and almost 30 shifts per game. Solberg is already getting that “throwback defender” label as he plays with a high amount of energy and intensity. Though, he has the skillset and ability to be effective offensively in today’s game. The first thing you notice in his game is his physicality and strength. At 6-foot-2, 201 pounds, he isn’t afraid of stepping up and making a big open ice hit or cut off attacking forwards along the boards to shove them down. Even when he’s the target, he holds his ground and can make a big reverse hit. While he shows that he can hold his own, he’s more than just a physical presence. Solberg’s a very fluid and quick skater for his size, showing great speed and agility in transition as he strikes quickly through the neutral zone and within the offensive zone. He can walk the line to get into the open space very easily and has strong edges to spin off and evade pressure. Defensively, that same aggressive nature in Solberg’s game stands out. His smooth stride and speed allows him to cut down lanes and take time and space away from puck carriers. He gives the opposition very little room to work with and with his tenacious side, he can easily knock them off the puck and regain possession. He’s constantly applying pressure in coverage and does a great job to box out players in front of the net. He can block shots effectively and his active stick allows him to break up plays and can create a rush opportunity when he regains control. Solberg projects as a jack of all trade’s defenseman as he can do it all. He can confidently lead a rush, is a strong skater, can play a mean physical game or even shift things down in his own end. He excels in all areas of the game and is already displaying pro qualities at a young age, which is a big positive. He can easily be a top-four defender who can play in all situations and log big minutes. He will definitely be a nightmare to go up against, so opponents better keep their heads up. The Washington Capitals need to start rebuilding their defense with good young prospects. and Stian Solberg is the type of defenseman that teams and fans grow to love because of his playstyle and reliability.
18. CHI-Liam GREENTREE (RW), 6’3/215, Windsor Spitfires (OHL)
Of all the forwards available at the 2024 NHL Draft, Liam Greentree might be among the hardest workers. The Windsor Spitfires were one of the worst teams in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) this season, posting just 18 wins in 68 games and allowing 360 goals against, the highest total by a wide margin. But they weren’t the worst and a lot of that is thanks to their captain, Liam Greentree, who put the team on his shoulders and made a strong case as to why he should be a top-15 pick for the 2024 Draft. Greentree’s bread and butter is his shot, specifically his wrister. Being a bigger player, he can get a lot of power behind his shot, which already makes it a weapon, allowing him to fire the puck from anywhere in the offensive zone and get it by the goalie. Scoring is far from the only thing Greentree can do. He’s a fantastically creative player who can move the puck as though it were on a string. His puck control, especially while moving, is not an easy skill to learn, but he makes it look almost effortless. One thing scouts keep coming back to is Greentree’s work ethic. As previously mentioned, the Spitfires were a terrible team this season, which put their captain in a difficult situation as he was tasked to do pretty much everything: kill penalties, play on the power play, be the primary playmaker, and the team’s go-to scorer. Yet he rose to the occasion and did it all and did it well. His 36 goals and 54 assists not only led the team, he outpaced the next-highest scorer on Windsor by 24 points. Greentree isn’t without his flaws, of course. His skating lacks a top gear, especially in a straight line, which can lead to him getting outpaced quickly, and his stride is a bit lumbering. He also isn’t consistently aware of his surroundings, creating unnecessary turnovers, although part of that can be blamed on the team around him. Greentree doesn’t project to be a hard-hitting, goal-scoring menace in the NHL like Jarome Iginla or Cam Neely. Instead, he looks more like Jason Robertson, who had similar issues when he was with the Kingston Frontenacs. Greentree will need some time to iron out his skating to get it to an NHL-average level, but there’s a chance that he could emerge as a 40-goal, 80-point player in the right system. If Chicago can land a player that has the potential like Liam Greentree with their 18th overall pick along with Ivan Demidov, who was selected 2nd overall, the Blackhawks would be set for the future.
19. VGK-Adam JIRICEK (D), 6’2/168, HC Plzen (Czechia)
Heading into 2023-24, Adam Jiricek was being mentioned alongside top-10 locks Artyom Levshunov and Sam Dickinson. Now, he’s dropped to the top 20 in a few rankings and could end up being a steal for a team that is on track to make the playoffs this season. This drop is not based on performance, though, as he’s been injured since the first game of the 2024 World Juniors. After having surgery on his knee shortly after, he has also been ruled out of the 2024 U18 World Championship, yet another showcase event for scouts to further evaluate the top prospects. Basically, all scouts have is video and live viewings from the first few months of the regular season in Czechia and the Hlinka Gretzky tournament last summer where he was one of Team Czechia’s best players. Jiricek is still a high-end talent with the potential to become a solid top-four (or even top-pairing) defenseman in the future. His strengths lie in his size, skating, mobility, and first pass. Similar to his brother David, who was drafted by the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2022, he is a well-rounded two-way player that can be used in all situations from the power play to the penalty kill and everywhere in between. He isn’t shy about taking the body either. Once he bulks up and fills into his 6-foot-2 frame, he is going to be a scary presence when opponents try and enter the offensive zone against him. It’s great to have a big shot, but if it doesn’t make it to the goaltender, it’s kind of useless. Getting shots through traffic is a skill in itself, and for it to be a legitimate weapon in the future, he has to work on that aspect of it. Another weakness of Jiricek’s is his skating style. While he has good acceleration and mobility, it sometimes looks awkward as he moves up the ice. But with some work with a skating coach, that can be easily ironed out in the future. All in all, he has a massive ceiling as a modern defensive defenseman that is good all-around, can move the puck and provides solid no-nonsense play in their own zone. The Injury might be enough to drop him into the late 20s as other teams may choose to select players that had better showing in their draft year. Adam Jiricek’s ceiling is that of a top-4 defenseman in the NHL, and will mostly be used in a shutdown-type role at first. The Vegas Golden Knights will likely be losing Shea Theodore and Brayden McNabb soon, so they have to start rebuilding their D core through the draft, and the young Jiricek is a solid selection.
20 NYI-Igor CHERNYSHOV (LW), 6’2/196, Dynamo Moskva (KHL)
For Igor Chernyshov, context is everything when it comes to understanding his potential. The 6-foot-2 forward started playing hockey against men in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) when he played five games for Dynamo Moskva during the 2022-23 season. In 2023-24, he split time between the KHL and MHL (the Russian minor-league system) where he played 34 and 22 games, respectively. Chernyshov brings a lot of qualities that should translate to higher levels of hockey. He is an above-average skater with good size, and this makes him an effective straight-line attacker in transition. While many of his transition routes are rather simple, he does not hesitate to put his shoulder down and drive to the net, creating scoring chances for himself on the rush regularly against MHL competition. His greatest strength lies in his elite hockey sense, particularly at high speeds. His adept use of strong edge work, even when flat-footed, allows him to navigate open lanes with precision and speed. This ability to make split-second decisions and capitalize on openings sets him apart as an elite player. Chernyshov plays a very direct style, charging the net frequently whether he has the puck or not. He has had a rather slow start to this year production-wise, but his skill set looks well designed for the pro game with the ability to make strong plays and smart decisions at a higher pace than most teenagers. If you had to build a perfect model for a modern NHL forward, Chernyshov would meet almost all of the requirements. His gameplan is easy to project to the NHL level, especially if he can take his offensive skillset to the next level in the coming years. In the best-case scenario, he’s on your top line eating 20 minutes of ice time each night split between the power-play, penalty kill, and 5-on-5. Igor Chernyshov is a top 20 talent, but he is more on the raw side when it comes to being compared to other top prospects. He does have a high ceiling and if he can add the weight and learn the game better, he should be a top 6 power forward who can score some goals in the NHL. The New York Islanders aren’t exactly known for taking risks in the first round of the draft, but if they are able to add a talent like Igor Chernyshov it would greatly help an Islanders team in great need of offensive talent.
21. LA-Sacha BOISVERT (C), 6’2/183, Muskegon Lumberjacks (USHL)
As much as the 2024 NHL Draft is the year of defensemen, there are still quite a few centers that could be had in the first round that will eventually turn into impact players down the road. Leading the way are obviously Macklin Celebrini and Cayden Lindstrom, but as the season went on, Sascha Boisvert started to raise his stock as one of the top options of this draft class. He will likely be selected by a team that made it deep into the playoffs, and whoever adds him to their prospect pool will be getting a player that oozes hockey IQ, work ethic and maturity. Playing in his second season with the Muskegon Lumberjacks of the United States Hockey League (USHL), Boisvert more than doubled his goal output from 17 to 36 and calmly navigated his draft year as a potential first-round pick. That type of maturity will do Boisvert well in the future as he moves his way through the NCAA circuit with North Dakota and eventually the NHL. As mentioned, Boisvert’s work ethic and hockey IQ are also highlights of his game along with a strong shot, and of course, his size at 6-foot-2. He is also developing into a very versatile player, playing on both special teams and doing whatever is needed to help his team win games. Wearing an “A” this season for the Lumberjacks, his leadership qualities are also shining through and have made an impact on his teammates. Boisvert’s biggest weaknesses are his skating and defensive game – two things that can certainly improve with coaching at the next level of his development. Boisvert has the potential to become something very special in the NHL, he has the skillset to be an elite two-way pivot that is relied on in all situations. I see his ceiling as a very good second-line center, bordering on elite, and his floor as a matchup center capable of jumping into the top-six in a pinch. In both instances, he will be playing on the power play and penalty kill. The LA Kings need to start hitting on their draft picks and with the recent trade of Pierre Luc Dubois for Darcy Kuemper, that will open up a spot for one of their young center to make the team. Sacha Boisvert could be another player who adds his name to the equation down the line when he decides to join the team after his season with North Dakota is over.
22. NSH-Terik PARASCAK (RW), 6’1/179, Prince George Tigers (WHL)
Scoresheet-wise, there is so much to love with Terik Parascak, he is the leading scorer for the Prince George Cougars with 43 goals and 105 points in 105 games. Beyond the point totals, however, what makes Parascak so interesting is the way he puts up those points. A vast majority of the points he has produced so far have come from the low slot and off one-touch plays, which seems strange at first given how poor his skating is. He shouldn’t be beating players to dangerous ice so consistently with that skating stride, and yet, he always is. That’s a testament to how intelligent Parascak is, both on and off the puck. Perfectly-timed inside cuts, one-touch passes, and net drives put him and his teammates in prime scoring areas almost every shift, and he has also improved his long-range scoring to complement his short-range threat. Parascak is an incredibly intelligent forward with decent puck skills and a great feel for the game. His skating needs to improve massively, but has the upside to become a top-six, two-way forward. He’s one of those players with that innate ability to go to where the puck will be and always has an option in all zones. He is composed under pressure, connects with tape-to-tape passes, and has shown a consistent finishing ability, and one of the more naturally talented prospects in the 2024 draft class. Parascak plays on both special teams and has deceptive speed & quickness that always makes him a scoring threat. Parascak is a wizard offensively, but his defensive lapses may drop his draft stock. He should be a late first-round pick and could be selected somewhere between 20-28, but there is a chance he slips into the second round and goes as late as 40th overall. His draft position will depend on whether teams are willing to work with him to improve his defensive structure, and whether or not they think he’s willing to work on his skating. Terik Parascak is comparable to Dawson Mercer of the New Jersey Devils and has been a solid middle 6 caliber forward who plays in all situations and has been able to chip in on the scoresheet from time to time. The Prince George Cougar has elevated his level of play at both ends of the ice and is lined up to be a late first-round, and if he continues to grow offensively, he could become a solid top-six forward. The Nashville Predators continue to add to their impressive prospect pool, adding yet another solid prospect with top 6 potential, but like most of their propsects, will need some seasoning before they are NHL ready.
23. TOR-Andrew BASHA (LW), 6’0/187, Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL)
Andrew Basha has been one of the most fun prospects to follow in the Western Hockey League (WHL). On a young Medicine Hat Tigers squad featuring potential top-10 pick Cayden Lindstrom and Gavin McKenna, who could be the first overall pick in 2026, Basha stood out for his creativity and ability to create plays out of thin air. Although he may not have the same high-end potential as his teammates, he’s developed into one of the best playmakers in the 2024 Draft. Basha’s game is all about quickness. One of his go-to moves is the drop pass. If he’s carrying the puck up ice, he’ll drop the puck to a linemate, following closely behind as soon as an opponent pressures him. Because he’s already in the opponent’s face, he can provide a screen and prevent him from responding quickly to the new puck carrier, which creates a ton of space and time for whoever receives it. Basha is a very intelligent player, playing a heads-up game that thrives on responding to the environment around him. At 6 feet and 185 pounds, Basha isn’t the smallest player on the ice but often plays like he is, backing off and passing the puck when he senses a hit coming. He has enough skills and awareness to move the puck to a teammate and help the Tigers maintain possession, but in these situations, it could have resulted in a better opportunity rather than a harried pass. Basha is one of the oldest and most experienced first-time eligible prospects in the 2024 Draft, making his inconsistencies all the more confusing. He’s an incredibly fun player to watch when he’s on, but when he’s not, he’s barely a factor. Still, he’s got plenty of time to iron out those issues, which could make him a middle-six playmaker in the NHL. The Toronto Maple Leafs are not in need of prospects that aren’t NHL ready, so it’s possible they move this pick for an impact player, but should they keep this pick, Andrew Basha would be a solid pick, as he has proved he can play with star talent.
24. COL-Emil HEMMING (RW), 6’1/205, TPS (Liiga)
Emil Hemming is a right-handed power forward who’s been playing in both the Liiga and the U20 SM-Sarja with TPS. Hemming’s biggest strength is his powerful shot and his ability to find soft ice in the offensive zone. He has good shooting mechanics and can beat goaltenders cleanly, even at the Liiga level. Despite playing a limited defensively responsible 4th line role, he’s been able to produce points in Liiga. In addition to his great shot, Hemming possesses some other interesting tools. He is a good, powerful skater, has some physicality in his game, and is quite good at handling the puck. The biggest question marks concerning his game are his decision-making and the variability in his level of play. When you think of Finnish forwards, especially of the non-star variety, you think of hard-working, smart players who just know what play to make next. Hemming exemplifies that perfectly. He forechecks hard, understands what routes to take in the offensive zone and doesn’t cheat his team in the defensive zone. He plays with an edge and throws his weight around whenever he can. He is at his best off-puck in the offensive zone, looking to sit in a pocket or bang in a rebound. Hemming isn’t a guy who projects to be a star, but he can be a capable, solid complementary contributor. Powerful scoring winger with detailed off-puck movement in the offensive zone. Needs to stay engaged and improve his decision-making, but has potential as a second-line sniper. While Emil Hemming isn’t a star player, he is exactly the type of player you need when you play in playoff games and if you are trying to build a contending team, this is the type of player you need. Emil Hemming is a great fit on Colorado as a 2nd line winger and a valuable secondary scorer and can be a valuable asset come playoff time.
25. OTT-Trevor CONNELLY (C/LW), 6’1/161, Tri-City Storm (WHL)
As expected, Trevor Connelly has been one of the USHL’s top players, showcasing his high-end playmaking abilities. Last season, Connelly scored 24 goals and 47 points in 57 games with the Tri-City Storm. With USA at the U18 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, Connelly scored 5 goals and 10 points and was one of the teams’ best players. Connelly plays with unmatched confidence. He constantly tries to take on opponents one-on-one, pushes through checks with shoulder drops and great puck placement, and always goes for the throat with his offensive zone entries. A major difference between Connelly last year versus this year is that he trusts his teammates a lot more to complete his plays. As a result, his playmaking game has grown and he has adopted a distributor role that fits his skillset better than the finisher role he was trying to force last year. Despite the absurd skill level, there are some worrying setbacks in Connelly’s game. His defensive game is lackluster, his motor is very inconsistent, and there have been major questions with the character that will likely have some teams very hesitant to bet on his upside, no matter how high it is. Trevor Connelly is taller and stronger than Mat Barzal, although he is not a shifty and dynamic as Barzal as a playmaking threat, he is comparable in terms of his skating and puckhandling skills. The talent to be a top-10 pick in this year’s draft and a potential top-line point-scoring winger, however, there are other factors that are causing scouts to move him down in the rankings. Connelly has a strong and advanced offensive skillset that has made him a dangerous offensive scorer and playmaking threat. He has a top-six forward upside with the potential of being a top-line player. He can excel in any situation offensively, and if he continues to develop defensively, he could become a strong two-way player. His defensive and physical concerns will ultimately be what holds him back, but his upside is higher than almost any player in this draft. Ottawa needs help in all positions and their recent draft prospects haven’t really panned out like they anticipated,
so adding a player with the potential of Trevor Connelly, is a good move.
26 MTL-Cole BEAUDOIN (C), 6’2/209, Barrie Colts (OHL)
Beaudoin’s a big body power forward who leans goal scorer more than playmaker. He goes to the net to set screens and look for rebounds. He’s difficult to move off the play in the trenches and is a capable skater the full length of the ice. At 6-foot-2 and 209 pounds, Beaudoin loves to power threw guys to make things happen. He’s a good goal-scorer with an excellent shot, but he also plays various roles with the Colts. He can create offense in junior, but with a heavy skating stride, the debate is in how his game will translate to the pros. I’ve seen him get by enough defenders and think his compete is so good that his game will work in a potential third-line center role. Beaudoin is yet another prospect whose stock dropped as a result of others in his class elevating their game and standing out as of late, while his game remained relatively the same over the past few months. As a result, he drops 14 spots from 31st in November to 45th in February. Beaudoin not only has the size, but the technique, making him one of the best puck-protectors in the draft, as well as a solid defensive contributor. His strong and compact release makes him a solid off-puck threat, too. The ceiling is low with Beaudoin, but there isn’t much preventing him from making a third line as a power forward and cycle offense specialist. While being a good-sized forward with a game comparable to John Tavares, Beaudoin will most likely end up being a player who settles in the middle six of an NHL lineup and can add depth scoring and playmaking for whoever drafts him. With his shot being one of his biggest strengths, he should be able to carve out a role in a powerplay unit and play on the penalty kill, thanks to his full 200-foot game. This is the perfect Center for the Montreal Canadiens draft at this position, while not the flashy pick, Beaudoin is going to a player who can be relied on as a dependable shutdown center in the league.
27. CAR-Jett LUCHANKO (C), 5’11/187, Guelph Storm (OHL)
Jett Luchanko is going to be a fan favorite in the NHL someday, with an impressive tenacity and work ethic. Luchanko has good skill with the puck and skates quite well, making him a dangerous player with the puck in transition. However, he’s always willing to give up some of the glory by making another pass and finding a better option if it’s there. Luchanko reads plays really well and has that knack for timing and finding openings in defensive coverage that is difficult to teach. The reason he’s not higher on this list is because he hasn’t really shown any dynamic trait to this point that makes you think he could be a high-in-the-lineup type player in the NHL. Luchanko’s on-ice testing at the CHL top prospects game is making scouts talk, but the projectability of his game is what has seen him crack the first round on Bob McKenzie’s list, among others; some Scouts however aren’t completely as sold on his projectablity, despite his team-leading 53 points in 48 OHL games. The combination of raw athletic ability, high motor, solid skating and defensive acumen makes Luchanko an easy-to-project player and his skillset would translate to the NHL better as a third-line checking forward. Luchanko’s ceiling could project him as a highly skilled, two-way centreman with top-six potential. Even if he’s a middle-six player, he’s one that you can rely on in any situation and his speed could be an asset on the penalty-kill to try and generate some offense as well. There’s a lot that still needs to happen for him to get to that point, but the skill and awareness is already evident in his game that can get him there quicker. Since Carolina is a team that isn’t in a rush for prospects to contribute immediately, this is the ideal spot for Luchancko to go to devlop and grow his game.
28. CGY-Charlie ELICK (D), 6’4/203, Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL)
Charlie Elick is a bit of a project still, as a big (6-foot-4), right-handed defender who defends well but hasn’t shown a ton when it comes to moving the puck himself. However, he plays physically and uses his frame well when defending (which isn’t always the case for young players), not to mention his great skating. Elick is one of the best skaters in the draft class for my money, and a 6-foot-3, right-shot defenseman who skates like he can always have a place in the NHL. He will need to take several steps forward offensively if he wants to provide two-way impact as a pro, but I think his defensive game and size/skating combo will lead to him being drafted early and earn him a chance to prove he can succeed as a pro. Charlie Elick is a type of defenseman who seems easy to project into a future NHL lineup. While Elick has been relatively productive, the interest for him stems more from his dependable transition game and effective (and physical) defensive game. Elick has an excellent first pass out of the defensive zone and—complimented by strong four-way mobility makes him one of the best defensive zone transition defensemen in the WHL. Elick closes gaps and defends the line well, wins pucks and net-front battles, and is also very physical. Elick shows a lot of promise as a second-pair, shutdown defenseman at the next level. Fully utilizing his size, skating ability, and defensive nature, Elick could become that reliable defenseman we see in the NHL. Every team would love a top-four blueliner who can carry their defensive responsibilities while having the size to play physically and not force them to be the primary puck-mover on the line. The Calgary Flames would jump at the opportunity to add a big body right handed defenseman, who has the potential to be a good shutdown defenseman.
29. DAL-Leo SAHLIN WALLENIUS (D), 6’0/183, Växjö Lakers HC J20 (J20 Nationell)
While most of the top names in the draft regarding defensemen hail from North America and Russia, one intriguing Swede, Leo Sahlin Wallenius, bears a closer look. Spending his entire season in the J20 Nationell with the Vaxjo Lakers, he lit up the league with 11 goals and 42 points. He also dominated the international circuit with seven goals and 23 points over the various tournaments. Sahlin Wallenius is dangerous offensively because of his smooth skating and creativity in transition. He also has quick feet and hands, capable of changing directions at will and beating opponents one-on-one. All of Sahlin Wallenius’ skills were on display at the U18 Five Nations Cup in February where he wore the “C” for Team Sweden and finished with seven points in four games. He was all over the ice using his skating and playmaking to lead the rush and set up his teammates for high-danger scoring chances. Similar to Axel Sandin-Pellikka, who was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in 2023, his instincts and hockey IQ are next-level when it comes to anticipating and knowing when to jump into the play or take a risk in the offensive zone. During that tournament, Sahlin Wallenius also showcased his defensive chops with smart stickwork and positioning both in his own zone and in transition. He could turn into an elite top-four two-way defender in the mould of Miro Heiskanen, who he models his game after. His teammates also appreciate what he does in the offensive zone as he demands attention and gives them more room to work. While Sahlin Wallenius doesn’t hae the offensive upside that Heiskanen had entering the draft, his skating and mobility are comparable, and he is viewed as a defender who can be used in all situations as well. Ironicially, Dallas already has Miro Heiskanen, whom Sahlin Wallenius models his game after, if he pans out and is a top 4defenseman, Dallas will have a great D core for a long time.
30. NYR Aron KIVIHARJU (D), 5’10/165, HIFK (Liiga)
Aron Kiviharju is a Finnish defenseman who plays for HIFK in the Finnish Liiga. He has only played in seven games this season due to an injury (knee surgery) that had a timetable of four months of recovery. That has dropped Kiviharju in all draft rankings, as he was once considered the top prospect available for the 2024 draft. The first thing that stands out about Kiviharju is his skating. I wouldn’t call him a burner by any stretch, but he is a smooth and patient skater. He uses that skating to move the puck through the neutral zone in transition, something modern-day NHL defensemen need to have in their repertoire to succeed. Another thing that stands out about Kiviharju’s game is his passing. He can stretch the ice with breakout passes from the defensive zone, but he also uses his passing ability well in the offensive zone to help set up quality scoring chances. Part of that passing ability comes from Kiviharju’s smarts. Kiviharju is also a shifty and deceptive stickhandler, perhaps an underrated one at that. He will use his stickhandling when skating out of the defensive zone to pull oncoming forecheckers out of position, or he’ll use it to create space for himself in the offensive zone when there might not be much space available. The concerns with Kiviharju are injuries and size, as Kiviharju has battled with injuries off and on over the last couple of years. At 5-foot-10, 165 pounds, it’s questionable how effective he will be as a defender at the NHL level, but he makes up a lot of his weaknesses with his skating and excellent hockey sense. Kiviharju was a top 15 pick in the draft last year but due to injuries, he will likely fall out of the top 20, and will likely go off the board in the 20-30 range. If Kiviharju stays healthy, he has the potential to be a No.2 defenseman on a contender, which is why picking him at the end of the first round is an absolute no-brainer for a team like the New York Rangers who could use some offensive firepower from the backend.
31. ANA Dean LETOURNEAU (C), 6’7, 214, St. Andrew’s College (PHC)
There is quite a bit of disagreement when it comes to Dean Letourneau’s position in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft. Much of this has to do with the fact that the 6-foot-6 centerman does not play in one of the largest circuits in importance, such as the Canadian Hockey League junior circuit or the United States Hockey League (USHL), which is one factor that makes an evaluation complicated. Dominating at St. Andrew’s College — a prep school in Ontario — has gotten him noticed by scouts, with some feeling he may go late in the first round while others see him being selected as late as the late third round. Letourneau, who served as an alternate captain this season, won the J.P. McClocklin Trophy as the most valuable player of the MacPherson Tournament in February after leading St. Andrew’s to the championship with 12 points (four goals, eight assists) in five games. He finished his superb season with 127 points in 56 games, and while he was slated to play some more games with the Sioux Falls Stampede of the USHL, but an upper-body injury prevented that from happening. While his size is an added bonus, Letourneau plays with great skill. He is an explosive skater with great agility, displays great skill with the puck, and has a lethal shot with a high rate of power. Letourneau has been working on his strength, his first three strides, and his play from the puck, which would make him an all-around dominant player. Letourneau is universally praised as a good teammate and is always positive, yet he is also highly competitive in practically everything he does. Letourneau compares himself to rising Buffalo Sabres star Tage Thompson because they both are big centermen with a ton of skill and a 200-foot game. While certainly a high risk pick at the end of the first round, if Letourneau ends becoming anything close to what Tage Thompson is, it would be a steal at the end of the first round. The Anaheim Ducks love their big centers, and so it would make sense for them to select a 6’7″ center here with this pick, that has sky high potential.
32. PHI-Nikita ARTAMONOV (LW), 5’11/187, Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod (KHL)
Heading into the 2024 NHL Draft, one of the most complete forwards available will be Nikita Artamonov, who spent the last year playing against men in the KHL despite being 18 years old. In 53 games played, he posted a solid 23 points when you take into account the competition he was competing against, but more impressive was his ability to drive play for his line whenever he took the ice. While he may not have elite playmaking abilities, his skillset allows him to be a threat in the offensive and defensive zones, while his acute hockey IQ keeps him in the right place to make a play at all times. Also, while he is average-sized (5-foot-11), he understands how to use his strength to win puck battles in the corners or to chip in to help a teammate out when they make a mistake. Artamonov is a jack-of-all-trades forward who any team would love to add to their prospect pool. He may not set any scoring records, but his gameplan makes your team harder to play against when it matters most. There is so much value to this kind of player, even if it’s not the sexiest pick on draft night. If Artamonov were 6-foot-2, he would be a sure-fire top-15 pick given his skillset. However, general managers tend to draft big if they value players similarly to each other, so his size may be a slight turnoff whether that is fair or not. The Nizhnekamsk native has been one of the best three Russian forwards amongst his age group for the last couple of years. This year, however? He has taken a giant leap and is playing at a level in the KHL that very few draft eligibles ever achieve. 23 points in 54 games is preposterous, with Michkov, Tarasenko, and Panarin the only players in the KHL’s 15-year history to do better P/GP-wise. There is definitely a chance he becomes a dynamic top 6 talent who dominates on both ends of the ice if he is given the time to reach his full potential, if he falls to the second round, he could be a steal. Nikita Artamonov has two things working against him, one the Russian Factor and two, his size; these two factors will ultimately cause him to fall to the second round. If the Philadelphia Flyers are able to snag Artamanov with their 32nd pick and pair him alongside fellow Russian, Matvei Michkov, the Flyers could have something special.
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