2015 NHL Mock Draft: Final Projections for Rounds 1-3

The annual entry draft is knocking on the NHL’s door. It will officially kick off on Friday in Sunrise, Florida.

It’s a no-brainer to predict that generational talents Connor McDavid and Jack Eichel will be the first two prospects to walk up to the draft podium. But beyond those two superstars, it’s not as cut and dried. There’s a handful of high-end talents such as Dylan Strome, Mitchell Marner, Noah Hanifin and Ivan Provorov who are neck-and-neck with each other.

We’ve taken another hard look at the 2015 draft class after our post-combine mock draft, laying out a mock of the first three rounds.

Believe the Connor McDavid hype.

He not only has the talent to become one of the best players in the NHL, but he also has what it takes to bring the Oilers back to their glory days.

The 6’1”, 194-pound center lit the OHL on fire in his last season of major junior action. After scoring 44 goals and 120 points in 47 regular-season games, he netted 21 goals and 49 points in 19 playoff matches. His 2.55 points-per-game ratio during the season was slightly shy of Sidney Crosby’s 2.71 average from his 18-year-old season with the QMJHL’s Rimouski Oceanic.

Despite not matching Crosby’s junior numbers, the Great One himself implied that the Penguins star has nothing on the Newmarket, Ontario, native.

“He’s as good as I’ve seen in the last 30 years,” Wayne Gretzky said of McDavid to the Edmonton Journal.

In most drafts, Eichel would go first overall, but he happens to be in the same draft class as McDavid. The Sabres should feel fortunate to get the chance to draft the Chelmsford, Massachusetts, native with the No. 2 selection.

Eichel, who notched 26 goals and 71 points in 40 contests in the NCAA, is regarded as the best college freshman since Paul Kariya, who racked up 100 points in 39 contests for the University of Maine in 1992-93.

In addition to his stats, he’s earned such high praise thanks to his enticing blend of elite offensive instincts, high-end speed and an uncanny compete level.

Adam Kimelman of NHL.com described him: "He'll be a 6'2", 210-pound strong, big center who passes like Adam Oates, shoots like Alex Ovechkin, and just a real committed, durable guy who doesn't get hurt, plays for 15 years and probably ends up in the Hall of Fame."

It might be a little early to start talking about the Hall of Fame, but it’s a testament to the immense potential that Eichel possesses.

The tough decisions start at No. 3 in the 2015 draft class.

The best fit for the Coyotes, or any team for that matter, seems to be Strome, because he's a rare big-bodied (6’3”, 185 pounds) center who possesses dynamic offensive abilities.

The Mississauga, Ontario, native’s stats are a tad inflated because he played alongside McDavid, but his numbers are still phenomenal. He led the OHL in scoring with 45 markers and 129 points in 68 matches.

It’s a testament to how he’s well beyond his years on the ice, turning his incredible vision, his hard, accurate shot and his speed into major production.

“With Dylan Strome, he's got the chance to develop into a Joe Thornton-esque level of player—a front-line intelligent center,” said McKeen’s Hockey scout Brendan Ross. “Player comparisons aren't the easiest projections to make, and each of these young talents will carve out their own niches, but those are the 'levels' that I could foresee.”

SportsNet’s Sam Cosentino recently said he believes the Leafs will pick either Provorov or Mitchell Marner. It seems to make more sense for Toronto to look for help on the back end, as high-end defensemen are predominately harder to acquire than first-line wingers.

In saying that, they are bound to raise a few eyebrows if they choose the Wheat King over Boston College defender Noah Hanifin.

TSN director of scouting Craig Button is one of the Russian product’s biggest fans:

While the debate will rage, I see Ivan as the best and most complete defenceman in the draft. His command of all the situations in the game allows him to contribute and make an impact regardless of what's confronting him. Ivan can make the game look effortless with a brilliant understanding of what's unfolding in front of him either from a defensive or offensive standpoint. His skating, quickness and balance, pinpoint passing, poise under pressure and a great competitive determination align to make him a defenceman who can influence the play and the outcomes in a consistent and positive manner.

Provorov led all WHL rookies in points with 15 goals and 61 points in 60 contests, so the proof is in the pudding regarding his offensive skills.

Carolina’s hockey brass will be sprinting to the draft podium if Hanifin is available at the No. 5 selection. The majority of scouting services believe he is the third-best prospect and top blueliner in the draft class.

Future Considerations managing editor Aaron Vickers believes he has what it takes to develop into a cornerstone defenseman in The Show:

Our scouts project Hanifin to develop into a cornerstone, top pairing two-way defenseman. He'll be a player that his coach is able to use in any and all situations. His fluid skating, strong passing game and confidence with the puck give him some intriguing upside offensively, while his rock solid positioning, ability to make correct reads and an active stick should translate well defensively.

The real question regarding Hanifin is whether he will be in the NHL next year. He shined at Boston College this past year, scoring five goals and 23 points in 37 games, but may need another year to refine his skills.

Marner, who netted 44 goals and 126 points in 63 games for the Knights, is a no-brainer for the Devils at No. 6.

He possesses the raw offensive skills that New Jersey desperately needs to add to their lineup, as their top scorer, Adam Henrique, only notched 43 points last year.

“Marner has the chance to be a special star player,” McKeen’s Hockey scout Brendan Ross said. “He's not only gifted playing with the puck but also shows a drive to compete without the puck as well. Offensively, the young London Knights star has the potential to crack the 35-goal and 90-point plateaus in his prime. The more realistic projection is quite a few years in the 70-80-point territory.”

Crouse's hard-nosed style of play screams Flyers hockey. He uses his large 6’4”, 212-pound stature to cause havoc on the ice by playing a physically dominant game.

Moreover, with good hands, a great shot and a strong skating ability, he has the talent to play a top-six role in The Show.

Unlike Marner and Strome, Crouse doesn’t project to develop into a future first-line forward. He seems poised to blossom into a high-end second-line winger who has the ability to be a game-changer, much like Boston’s Mulan Lucic.

His ceiling may make some teams leery about investing a top-10 pick in him, but since players with size, skill and tenacity are hard to find, it would be fairly surprising to see him drop beyond the ninth selection.

Werenski, like Hanifin, made a seamlessly smooth transition to the college ranks a year early as a 17-year-old. While logging big minutes, excelling in all situations and consistently putting in a strong effort, the 6’2”, 207-pound pivot netted nine goals and 25 points in 35 matches.

Though he’s considered to be slightly behind Provorov and Hanifin, Werenski is pegged as the consensus third-best rearguard in the draft.

He has the makings of an excellent defense partner for the Blue Jackets’ top 2012 draft choice, White City, Saskatchewan, native Ryan Murray. The duo would not only have the skill to create loads of offense, but also the speed and instincts to make quick transitions out of their own zone.

The Sharks have many options at No. 9 to bring in a young, talented forward to replace aging forwards Joe Thornton and Patrick Marleau down the road.

Connor would easily be one of their best bets, as the University of Michigan commit, who ISS Hockey ranks 13th overall, plays a solid two-way game while possessing the skills to put up big offensive numbers.

Following his win of the 2015 USHL Player of the Year award, it’s safe to call Connor the top USHL prospect in the draft. He used his top-notch puckhandling abilities, offensive creativity and accurate wrister to rack up 34 goals and 80 points in 56 games.

The Avalanche are in need of a good, young blueliner to complement Tyson Barrie and Erik Johnson, but with Hanifin, Provorov and Werenski off the board, it would make more sense for them to take the top talent available rather than force a blue-line pick. There’s simply too much high-end skill early on in this draft to focus on one position.

At 6’3”, 212 pounds, Zacha, who scored 16 goals and 34 points in 37 games in Sarnia, is a big-bodied power-forward who has the size and pugnacity to dominate a game physically.

The Czech Republic native, who is ranked 10th overall by ISS Hockey, combines that part of his game with his foot speed, high-end offensive abilities and lethal shot to wreak havoc in the offensive zone.

Panthers GM Dave Tallon has had success plucking talent out of Finland before, drafting Aleksander Barkov second overall in 2013. Rantanen has the potential to be the team's next Finnish success. In addition, he would blend in nicely alongside Florida’s young, talented offensive core.

Future Considerations describe Rantanen as:

A strong three-zone playmaker who is also defensively responsible…has an awkward upright skating stride, but gets from Point A to Point B just fine…not a big ”wow” factor to his game, but is a smooth, fluid, big-bodied forward who can be hard to handle…uses his strength and reach, along with his vision and hands, to protect the puck…has good instincts when to pass and when to hold…puck seems to follow him around the ice…good in his own zone and consistently makes himself available for a breakout pass…has impressive hockey sense and awareness…needs to work on his shot and add more muscle mass to his growing frame.

His good instincts were on display at the past World Junior Championship, as he managed to find the back of the net four times in five contests.

Barzal is a fringe top-10 prospect in this draft. But in saying that, it seems inevitable that a team in the Nos. 11-14 range will scoop the Vancouver, British Columbia, native up if he falls outside of the top 10.

The Stars could be one of those teams, as they are likely targeting offensive help this year following their selection of former Swift Current Broncos blueliner Julius Honka at No. 14 overall in 2014.

The 6’0", 181-pound center’s vision stands out the most. He can read a play a second before it happens and spot holes in a defense that most players can’t see. His elite playmaking abilities are visible in the 12 goals and 45 helpers he produced in 44 games this year.

The Kings could use an elite, young blueliner with the future of Slava Voynov up in the air, but Meier would be very hard to pass up.

The Switzerland product, who is ranked 10th among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting, is a physically dominant forward who possesses raw offensive abilities such as a hard shot, good vision and a quick, accurate snap pass.

Meier’s versatility makes him stand out among prospects in the Nos. 11-15 range.

He has the skill set to play up and down a lineup, whether it’s as a scorer on the first line or an energy player on a checking line. This is quite appealing to most teams, as it lowers the risk as to whether he will be able to transition his game from the junior ranks to the pros.

With Zdeno Chara nearing the end of his career, the Bruins are in need of some young blood on their back end to help Dougie Hamilton and Torey Krug carry the defense. Chabot would be one of Boston’s best bets with the 14th overall selection.

As ISS Hockey’s 16th-ranked prospect, he’s expected to be one of the first defenders selected after the big three.

Chabot, who notched 12 markers and 41 points in 66 games, is a smart two-way defenseman who possesses excellent mobility and puck skills. He’s the type of player who can play a big role in all situations because of his smooth skating ability and great work ethic.

Boeser is a bit of wild card in the draft.

A case in point: TSN’s Craig Button ranked him ninth overall, while ISS Hockey pegged him 35th overall. It’s business as usual for scouts to disagree, but usually they aren’t this far apart.

In saying that, it seems the North Dakota commit, who has been compared to Chicago Blackhawks forward Patrick Sharp, could be a good fit for the Flames. As a natural goal scorer who has great puck-possession abilities, he would likely fit in well alongside Sean Monahan and Johnny Gaudreau.

Boeser's ability to create offense from rushes stands out to NHL Central Scouting’s David Gregory: “A strong skating forward who is very effective at getting to open space. He possesses a hard, accurate shot and has the ability to create opportunities off the rush.”

With the 16th selection, the Oilers will be faced with a tough decision on whether to attempt to fill their netminder hole with Russia’s Ilya Samsonov or go with whoever they feel is the best prospect available.

It seems the latter is more likely than the former, given how hard it is to look into the crystal ball of a teenage goaltender.

The 6’1”, 185-pound Zboril, who is ranked 22nd overall by ISS Hockey, has the makings of a solid second-pairing defenseman. He uses his good hands, smooth stride, edgy attitude and hockey IQ to play a smart two-way game.

He would give the Oilers a solid trio of young defenders alongside Darnell Nurse and Oscar Klefbom.

The Jets love drafting out of the WHL.

Look no further than how they plucked Portland Winterhawks forwards Nicolas Petan and Chase De Leo, Kelowna Rockets blueliner Josh Morrissey and Tri-City Americans netminder Eric Comrie out of the junior league in the last two years.

Merkley would not only be Winnipeg’s best bet out of the Dub but also one of the better options for raw talent in general at No. 17.

The Calgary, Alberta, native is undersized at 5’11”, 190 pounds, but he by no means lets his stature hold him back, as he plays with a chip on his shoulder.

Evident in his 20 goals and 70 assists in 72 games, his best offensive skill is his playmaking abilities. He has the vision, hands and instincts to see right through a defense and hit tape-to-tape passes like it’s business as usual.

It makes sense for the Senators to look to their own backyard on the draft floor.

Konecny, who is ranked 14th overall by McKeen’s Hockey, is a smaller forward (5’10”, 176 pounds) who possesses a dynamic skating ability, great puck skills and a lightning release. He uses his great abilities at both ends of the ice, as he’s touted as a solid two-way forward.

Central Scouting’s Chris Edwards described Konecny: "He's a highly skilled forward who never quits. He skates very well, has excellent speed, is not afraid to get involved in battles and has no fear of taking the puck to the net."

The Red Wings love Swedish talent, and Eriksson Ek is considered the country’s top forward prospect in this year’s draft class.

In addition, with Henrik Zetterberg and Pavel Datsyuk not getting any younger, he could be one of the answers to help replace their offensive production.

The 6’2”, 183-pound sniper is an offensive catalyst, using his skating, elite-level shot and vision to cycle around the puck and find the back of the net. He produced solid numbers in Sweden’s top junior league this past year, potting 21 goals and 32 points in 25 contests.

Harkins has the rare blend of a blue-collar attitude and high-end skill. He works hard like a third-line grinder but has the talent to produce top-line numbers.

His best offensive attribute is his playmaking abilities, which is evident in the 20 goals and 59 helpers that he produced in 70 games this season.

The 6’1”, 183-pound Harkins is exactly the type of player the Wild need to complement Mikael Granlund and Mikko Koivu.

His hard-nosed style of play would give Minnesota the option to start him out in its bottom six before he learns how to produce offensively in the pros. Moreover, his strong defensive play would allow the Wild to give him zone starts and time on the penalty kill.

The Sabres have young talent up front and on the back end with the likes of Zemgus Girgensons, Sam Reinhart, Zach Bogosian and Rasmus Ristolainen. Samsonov would make the most sense for them at No. 21, because they are in need of a future starting goalie.

At 6’3”, 201 pounds, Samsonov has the size to cover the net but also the athletic ability to move around the crease effortlessly. In addition, he has good instincts and can make acrobatic saves. He could be the best netminder prospect to come out of Russia in quite some time.

It will be hard for the Capitals, and any other team for that matter, to pass up on Svechnikov in the Nos. 20-25 range. He has an enticing blend of size (6’2”, 201 lbs), soft hands, a solid shot and a smooth stride.

The combination paved the way for Central Scouting to rank him 17th overall among North American skaters.

Central Scouting’s Troy Dumville described him: "He proved to be a very skilled skater, strong on the puck and a player capable of doing a lot of things well. He plays a physical game, doesn't back away, is aggressive on the forecheck and finishes checks.”

The Canucks could use a blue-chip defensive prospect after investing four top-30 draft choices on forwards in the past two years.

Roy, a gifted two-way defender, would be a solid pickup with the 23rd selection. His vision, skating ability and puck skills make him a threat and impact player at both ends of the rink.

In addition to his two-way play, Roy has established himself as one of the top power-play producers in the draft. He racked up 26 helpers on the man advantage this year while playing in the QMJHL, which made up 60 percent of his point total (five goals and 38 assists).

After taking Provorov fourth overall, the Leafs would be expected to look to the other end of the ice with the 24th overall selection.

Sprong, who is pegged 18th overall by Future Considerations, would be an ideal pickup. He’s a dynamic skater, and he has a creative offensive mind and the work ethic to evolve his game at the next level.

The 6’0", 183-pound Sprong took no time at all to hit his stride in the QMJHL, as he notched 30 goals and 68 points in 67 games as a rookie in 2013-14. He enhanced his stats as a sophomore, scoring 39 markers and 88 points in 68 matches.

Going back to the WHL, Jake DeBrusk, the son of former NHLer Louie DeBrusk, would look good in a Winnipeg sweater.

The Edmonton, Alberta, native has excellent mobility combined with a goal scorer’s mindset and willingness to work in the dirty areas of the game.

Central Scouting’s Peter Sullivan is high on DeBrusk's competitive spirit: "His work ethic is off the charts but what also helps are those 42 goals he scored. He's a 40-goal scorer who does the dirty work in front of the net. His greatest strength is his compete level."

Montreal’s problem this past year was lighting the lamp. The Canadiens' top forwards haven’t found a way to score at the same rate as the NHL’s top contenders. 

The time is now for them to look for a talented scorer like Beauvilllier in the draft.

In the latter half of the first round of the draft, Beauvillier’s numbers are hard to beat. He led the Cataractes in points with 42 goals and 94 points in 67 games. Despite his elite offensive abilities, his smaller 5’10”, 170-pound frame has hindered his draft status.

With a 6’5”, 196-pound build, an ability to adapt to the pace of a game and a hard-nosed style of play, Carlo has the makings of a solid shutdown rearguard.

He asserted himself as one of the top defenseman in the WHL this past year, as the Americans constantly counted on him to contain other team’s top scorers.

Carlo is a good fit for the Ducks in more ways than one. They already have an elite, young puck-mover in the Seattle Thunderbirds’ Shea Theodore, so they could use a shutdown specialist to complement their top 2013 draft pick.

Moreover, with pending free agent Francois Beauchemin nearing the end of his career, Anaheim will need a new face to replace his defensive presence.

Opinions vary on White, as ISS Hockey ranks him 15th overall, while NHL Central Scouting believes he’s the 29th-best North American skater in the draft.

But at No. 28th overall, it seems the Bolts could walk away with a solid draft prospect who possesses an elite two-way game.

White, a Boston College commit, scored at a point-per-game pace (23 goals and 54 points in 54 games) this past year with the U.S. NTDP while being counted on heavily in his own zone.

He’s the type of player a coach puts on the ice in the final minute of a game, regardless of whether his team is up or down a goal.

After adding Crouse at No. 7, a big defenseman like Larsson makes sense for Philadelphia’s second top-30 draft choice. He has an enticing combination of size (6’2”, 190 lbs), a smooth stride and smarts.

TSN’s Craig Button thinks highly of his two-way style:

Larsson is very smart and poised and makes plays under pressure. A very good passer who gives you the puck in good time. Doesn’t pass along his problems and finds good options when he has the puck. His skating is solid and he maneuvers well to gain strong defensive positioning and to take advantage offensively. Ideally suited to today’s NHL.

The addition of Larsson next to 2014 pick Travis Sanheim and 2013 pick Samuel Morin would give the Flyers a strong blue-line prospect pool.

The Russian factor is involved with Guryanov, but with the KHL in rough shape financially, the Coyotes would be making a smart move in drafting the 6’2”, 190-pound winger.

In addition, at No. 30 overall, there’s more upside in drafting him there than many of the other late-first-round prospects.

Guryanov, who is ranked 22nd overall by McKeen’s Hockey, has a dangerous combination of elite speed and a high-end puck-handling ability. He uses his speed and big frame to protect the puck well while having the ability to dangle through opponents and fire off a rocket of a shot.

He’s set to join the KHL’s Lada Togliatti next year after notching 15 goals and 25 points in 23 games with the organization’s junior team this past season.

31. Buffalo Sabres: Paul Bittner, W, Portland Winterhawks: As Central Scouting’s 26th overall North American skater, the Crookston, Minnesota, native is expected to don a jersey in the late-first or early second round. He would be an ideal fit for Buffalo, giving the Sabres an appealing blend of size (6’4”, 203 lbs), tenacity and scoring touch. He netted 34 goals and 71 points in 66 games this past year while playing alongside Blue Jackets pick Oliver Bjorkstrand and Jets prospect Nicolas Petan for most of the season.

32. Arizona Coyotes: Noah Juulsen, D, Everett Silvertips: Juulsen is a solid two-way defender who plays with a chip on his shoulder. He uses his mobility, authoritative demeanor and good hands to his advantage at both ends of the ice but thrives the most in the offensive zone. It's evident in the nine goals and 52 points he posted in 68 matches that he sees the ice well and has the ability to make the right pass at the right time. Moreover, he has the composure to wait for a play to come to him rather than force a shot or pass.

33. Edmonton Oilers: Oliver Kylington, D, Farjestad: The Swedish blueliner is one of the biggest wild cards in the draft. Central Scouting pegged him as the top European skater in the draft in their midterm ranking but dropped him to sixth in their final projection. His fluctuating ranking is a testament to his high-end skill, especially skating and vision, and his disappointing production in his draft season. He only notched six goals and twelve points in 35 games with Farjestad in the Swedish Hockey League this year.

34. Columbus Blue Jackets (via Toronto via L.A.): Jack Roslovic, C/W, U.S. NTDP: Roslovic, who is a native of Columbus, Ohio, is regarded as one of the smartest forwards in the draft because of his elite hockey sense. He makes countless smart, safe plays in a game without a whole lot of flash. He is poised to join Miami (Ohio) University next year after racking up 27 goals and 79 points in 65 games for the U.S. NTDP this season.

35. Carolina Hurricanes: Filip Chlapik, C, Charlottetown Islanders: Somewhat similar to Kylington, Chlapik’s draft status is up for debate. Central Scouting pegs him in the first round at No. 18 among North American skaters, but ISS Hockey believes he’s a second-round talent, pegging him 40th overall. The Czech Republic native’s combination of playmaking abilities, strength and high hockey IQ has scouts agreeing that a team will select him within the top two rounds.

36. New Jersey Devils: Mitchell Vande Sompel, D, Oshawa Generals: He is one of the top puck-moving rearguards in the draft because he possesses fluid skating ability, speed, puck skills and a composed demeanor. He turned his skill into production with the Generals this year, posting 12 goals and 63 points in 58 games. For the most part, it’s his smaller 5’10”, 185-pound frame that has scouts wary of him.  

37. Boston Bruins (via Philadelphia via NYI): Nicolas Roy, C, Chicoutimi Sagueneens: It’s going to be tough for any team in the second round, especially the big, bad Bruins squad, to pass up on Roy, because 6’4”, 198-pound centers don’t exactly grow on trees. In addition to his imposing stature, he has a powerful stride and decent hands and is strong on the puck. His stats are a bit of a disappointment, though, as he scored 16 goals and 50 points in 68 contests after notching 41 points the year before.

38. Columbus Blue Jackets: Gabriel Carlsson, D, Linkoping: Ranked 30th overall by ISS Hockey, Carlsson should be one of the first prospects picked in the second round if he’s passed over in the first 30 selections. He has turned heads because of his 6’4”, 183-pound build, strong skating and his ability to transition the puck up the ice. He does have a visible ceiling as a mid-pairing defenseman, though.

39. San Jose Sharks: Mackenzie Blackwood, G, Barrie Colts: Blackwood is the top North American netminder in the draft, according to Central Scouting. With a 6’4”, 216-pound frame, he has the size to cover the net well and stays calm, cool and collected in all situations. The best aspect about his game is arguably how hard he works on a nightly basis.

40. Colorado Avalanche: Jeremy Lauzon, D, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies: Lauzon would undoubtedly improve Colorado’s back-end prospect pool. He’s a two-way blueliner with great mobility and acceleration. He’s at his best in the offensive zone because he possesses an enticing blend of a heavy point shot, solid puck skills and the ability to skate the puck around the ice until he sees an offensive opportunity.

41. New Jersey Devils (via L.A.): Jeremy Bracco, W, U.S. NTDP: There’s no shortage of various opinions on Bracco. Future Considerations pegs him 22nd overall, while Central Scouting believes he’s the 60th-best North American skater in the draft. Scouts love his speed, energy and elite playmaking abilities, but his 5’10”, 165-pound stature is another story. Everyone agrees that the 30 markers and 94 points in 65 games he produced this year is impressive, though.

42. Ottawa Senators (via Dallas): Christian Fischer, W, U.S. NTDP: Fischer has the ingredients of a solid two-way center. He stands 6’1”, 212 pounds, plays a consistent game, skates well and can turn on the jets when he needs to backcheck. On top of that, the Notre Dame commit, who tallied 31 markers and 64 points in 66 games, possesses an accurate wrist shot and a bomb of a slapper.

43. Los Angeles Kings: Parker Wotherspoon, D, Tri-City Americans: The Surrey, British Columbia, native—the younger brother of Flames pick Tyler Wotherspoon—is a well-rounded two-way defender who plays with great composure. He uses his top-notch skating ability and good hockey sense to be one of the more effective players on the ice in all three zones. He’s not an offensive specialist but has the tools to make his mark at both ends of the rink.

44. Tampa Bay Lightning (via Boston): Jonas Siegenthaler, D, ZSC Lions: With a 6’3”, 220-pound frame, it’s hard to overlook Siegenthaler. On top of his size, he’s a smooth-skating defender who plays a simple game. He attempts to get the puck out of his own zone safely and tries to keep the mistakes down to a minimum. In saying that, he isn’t a future top-pairing rearguard but could be a valuable asset on a second pairing.

45. Calgary Flames: Vince Dunn, D, Niagara IceDogs: Dunn posted some of the biggest offensive numbers in the draft for a defenseman by netting 18 markers and 56 points in 68 contests. He understands the game well and has the mobility and composure to move around the ice smoothly with the puck on his stick.

46. Pittsburgh Penguins: Travis Dermott, D, Erie Otters: Dermott is expected to be the third Otter selected in the draft after McDavid and Strome. The Newmarket, Ontario, native, who lit the lamp eight times and added 37 helpers in 61 games, is a good two-way defenseman with above-average offensive skills. He uses his hockey sense and quality passing abilities to create offensive opportunities and transition the puck out of his own zone smoothly.

47. Winnipeg Jets: Nicolas Meloche, D, Baie-Comeau Drakkar: With a 6’3”, 205-pound build, a smooth stride and a good shot, there’s a lot to like about Meloche, whom Future Considerations ranked 43rd overall. In addition, he’s an intelligent defender who positions himself well against opponents. It seems inevitable that someone will take a chance on him before the second round is over.

48. Ottawa Senators: Jordan Greenway, W, U.S. NTDP: The Boston University commit is one of the biggest prospects in the draft with a 6’5”, 223-pound frame. He uses his big frame to protect the puck well, giving him time and space to seek out a smart pass. As is evident in the nine goals and 35 helpers that he posted in 53 games this past year, he’s a pass-first type of player.

49. Dallas Stars (via Detroit): Ryan Gropp, W, Seattle Thunderbirds: The 6’2”, 183-pound Gropp has the makings of a solid second-line winger. He has impressive offensive vision, a powerful stride and the ability to carry the puck for stretches at a time. He posted respectable numbers for a second-round prospect with the Thunderbirds, notching 30 markers and 58 points in 67 contests.

50. Minnesota Wild: Dennis Yan, W, Shawinigan Cataractes: Yan made a seamlessly smooth transition to the QMJHL from the U.S. NTDP this year, scoring 33 goals and 64 points in 59 games. He showed off his good top-end speed, solid shot and playmaking abilities. He isn’t physical at all, though, despite racking up 71 penalty minutes on the season.

51. Buffalo Sabres (via NYI): Thomas Novak, C, Waterloo Black Hawks: Novak, who is committed to the University of Minnesota, has excellent hockey sense and puck skills. In addition, he plays the game with a lot of energy and has the speed to beat opponents in a puck race. The 18-year-old center, who tallied 14 goals and 48 points in 46 games for Waterloo, does need to improve his strength in order to make an impact in the pros, though.

52. Calgary Flames (via Washington): Austin Wagner, W, Regina Pats: Wagner’s speed is off the charts. He can fly past defenders like it’s business as usual, especially when the Pats put him out on the penalty kill. If the 6’1”, 181-pound winger, who is ranked 43rd overall by ISS Hockey, can work on his finishing skills, he will greatly improve on the 20 goals and 39 points that he tallied in 61 contests this past year.

53. Calgary Flames (via Vancouver): Rasmus Andersson, D, Barrie Colts: The Malmo, Sweden, native, who is ranked 50th overall by Future Considerations, is an offensive-minded defenseman. He has the ability to quarterback a power play and is known to fire off hard, accurate passes and shots. He put up great numbers in his first year with the Colts, racking up 12 goals and 64 points in 67 games. His notable positional and speed issues are the major things holding him up.

54. Chicago Blackhawks (compensatory pick): Zachary Senyshyn, W, Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds: The Ottawa, Ontario, native found the back of the net 26 times and added 19 helpers in 66 matches as a rookie for the Greyhounds. In doing so, he showed off his fluid skating ability, offensive creativity and solid puck-possession play. He has the potential to elevate his game further if he improves his defensive play and uses his 6’1”, 194-pound frame to become more of a physical presence.

55. Nashville Predators: Erik Foley, W, Cedar Rapids RoughRiders: The 5’11”, 185-pound winger is an offensive forward who loves to get under opponents’ skin. He’s at his best, though, when he’s focused on creating offensive chances. Using his strong skating ability and solid shot, he potted 27 goals and 54 points in 55 games for the USHL’s RoughRiders.

56. St. Louis Blues: Conor Garland, W, Moncton Wildcats: Despite being passed over in last year’s draft, Garland is one of the more intriguing prospects the second time around. He tore up the QMJHL this past season, leading the league in points with 35 goals and 94 assists in 67 games. He is undersized at 5’8”, 165 pounds, but the 19-year-old winger’s elite playmaking abilities and great vision make up for his smaller stature.

57. Edmonton Oilers (via Montreal): Michael Spacek, W, HC Pardubice: Spacek is one of the top European forwards in the draft who spent this past year playing overseas, as Central Scouting pegged him fifth among European skaters in the draft. He uses his speed, quickness and positioning to make an impact at both ends of the ice. He’s the type of player who can do it all but has a second-line ceiling.

58. Columbus Blue Jackets (via Anaheim): Yakov Trenin, W, Gatineau Olympiques: The Russian product is a big 6’2”, 194-pound playmaker who netted 18 goals and 67 points in 58 contests as a rookie for the Olympiques this past season. His creativity, vision and hard shot make him dangerous in the offensive zone, but he doesn’t have the top-end speed to fly past defenders in order to get there.

59. New York Rangers: Matthew Spencer, D, Peterborough Petes: Spencer’s elite hockey sense and excellent mobility have paved the way for him to develop into a good two-way defenseman. His skill set allowed the Petes to depend on him at both ends of the rink this year. Transitioning the puck out of his own zone is one of his greatest strengths, as he has the ability to make a solid pass or skate the puck out himself.

60. Arizona Coyotes (via Tampa Bay via NYR): Callum Booth, G, Quebec Remparts: Booth is one of the top North American puck-stoppers in the draft. He’s a big (6’3”, 195 lbs) and agile goalie who has a great glove hand. He was Quebec’s starter this year until they acquired Canadiens prospect Zachary Fucale from the Halifax Mooseheads near the QMJHL trade deadline.

61. Philadelphia Flyers (via Chicago): Ryan Pilon, D, Brandon Wheat Kings: The Duck Lake, Saskatchewan, native is a strong two-way rearguard. He isn’t overly physical but positions himself well to keep opponents to the outside. While using his hard shot and high hockey IQ, the 6’2”, 207-pounder made his biggest mark this past year in the offensive zone, racking up 11 goals and 52 points in 68 matches.

62. Washington Capitals: Adam Musil, C Red Deer Rebels: The 6’3”, 205-pound Musil, who is the younger brother of Edmonton Oilers pick David Musil and son of former NHLer Frank Musil, is a big-bodied two-way center. He is expected to go in the late-second round or early third round despite disappointing offensively this year with 15 goals and 39 points in 66 games.

63. Arizona Coyotes: Robin Kovacs, W, AIK: The Swede is a speedy winger who has the creativity to make things happen in the offensive zone. He’s at his best when he’s playing in a system that has an emphasis on puck possession.

64. Tampa Bay Lightning (via Edmonton via Anaheim): Guillaume Brisebois, D, Acadie-Bathurst Titan: Brisebois isn’t flashy, but he is smart and moves well. He’s the type of player who has the ability to make an impact in all three zones but won’t be on too many highlight-reel videos.

65. Toronto Maple Leafs: Filip Ahl, W, HV71 J20: Ahl is a competitive winger with good balance and even better size at 6’4”, 212 pounds. His frame and physicality make him difficult to contain.

66. Carolina Hurricanes: Caleb Jones, D, U.S. NTDP: The younger brother of Predators blueliner Seth Jones, Caleb Jones is a two-way defender who works hard in all situations. He’s poised to join the WHL’s Portland Winterhawks for the 2015-16 season.

67. New Jersey Devils: Daniel Vladar, G, HC Kladno: The Czech Republic native has no problem cutting down angles with his staggering 6’5”, 185-pound stature. According to head ISS Hockey scout Phil Myre, he’s considered to have one of the highest ceilings among goalies in the draft.

68. Columbus Blue Jackets (via Philadelphia): Blake Speers, W, Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds: He can be a wizard with the puck on his stick because of his soft hands and shiftiness. His offensive skill is evident on his stats sheet, as he racked up 24 markers and 67 points in 57 games this year.

69. Columbus Blue Jackets: Brendan Guhle, D, Prince Albert Raiders: The Sherwood Park, Alberta, native is a smart, offensive-minded defenseman. He has a poised demeanor with the puck on his stick and has the ability to take off with it because of his speed.

70. Philadelphia Flyers (via San Jose): Jesse Gabrielle, W, Regina Pats: Gabrielle is one of the top agitators in the draft. He was ranked the most irritating player in the WHL in a poll of coaches and players this past year.

71. Colorado Avalanche: Thomas Schemitsch, D, Owen Sound Attack: The Thornhill, Ontario, native has the deadly combination of size (6’3”, 205 lbs) and offensive upside. He lit the lamp 14 times and added 35 helpers this year throughout 68 games.

72. New York Islanders (via Florida): Mitchell Stephens, C, Saginaw Spirit: Stephens uses his speed, physicality and good hands to make an impact at both ends of the ice. Opinions vary on him, as ISS Hockey ranks him 33rd overall, while Central Scouting pegs him 112th among North American skaters.

73. Detroit Red Wings (via Dallas): Denis Malgin, C, ZSC Lions: Malgin’s strong hockey sense and offensive instincts are two of his better attributes. He can also handle the puck with finesse.

74. Los Angeles Kings: Nikita Korostelev, W, Sarnia Sting: Korostelev plays a puck-possession game full of offensive creativity. He almost scored at a point-per-game pace this year with 24 goals and 53 points in 55 games.

75. Boston Bruins: Glenn Gawdin, C, Swift Current Broncos: The Richmond, British Columbia, native is a strong two-way forward. He has the speed to take off with the puck and uses that same speed to get back into position in his own zone.

76. Calgary Flames: Alexander Dergachyov, C, SKA St. Petersburg: The 6’4”, 201-pound Dergachyov is a man among boys in the draft. On top of his imposing frame, he plays with grit and has the hands to create offense.

77. Florida Panthers (via Pittsburgh): Felix Sandstrom, G, Brynas J20: Sandstrom is one of the top European goalies in the draft class. He moves well for a 6’2”, 192-pound netminder while not being erratic.

78. Winnipeg Jets: Simon Bourque, D, Rimouski Oceanic: Bourque is a two-way blueliner who uses his strong stride and top-notch acceleration to his advantage. He isn’t going to quarterback a power play or run a penalty kill but can contribute at both ends of the ice.

79. Edmonton Oilers (via Ottawa): Adin Hill, G, Portland Winterhawks: Passed over in last year’s draft, Hill is one of the top 1996-born talents poised to don a sweater in Florida. He covers the net well with his 6’3”, 198-pound frame while possessing the athleticism to move around the crease smoothly.

80. Anaheim Ducks (via Detroit via Columbus): Alexandre Carrier, D, Gatineau Olympiques: Carrier makes up for his smaller 5’11”, 168-pound stature with mobility and great hand-eye coordination. He posted respectable numbers on Gatineau this year, scoring 12 markers and 55 points in 68 matches.

81. Arizona Coyotes (via Minnesota): Jens Looke, W, Brynas: Ranked 10th among European skaters by Central Scouting, Looke stands out for his playmaking and puck skills. He also can wire a sneaky shot off when he sees a fit opportunity to catch a goalie off guard.

82. New York Islanders: J. Forsbacka-Karlsson, C, Omaha Lancers: He lacks consistency but has evolved all aspects of his game since joining Omaha in 2013. His best offensive attribute is his passing ability, which is visible in the 15 goals and 38 assists he produced in 50 games on the year.

83. Calgary Flames (via Washington): Ethan Bear, D, Seattle Thunderbirds: With Shea Theodore set to move on to the pros, Bear is poised to become Seattle’s next go-to puck-mover on the blue line. He skates well and possesses good vision and a solid shot.

84. Anaheim Ducks (via Vancouver): Graham Knott, W, Niagara IceDogs: Knott has the appealing combination of size (6’3”, 192 lbs), strong skating ability and a good shot. Moreover, he approaches the game determined to make an impact.

85. Nashville Predators: Connor Hobbs, D, Regina Pats: Hobbs is a two-way defender who has the ability to rush the puck with his speed and skilled hands. He notched two goals and 18 points in 45 games in his second WHL season this year.

86. Edmonton Oilers (via St. Louis): Jesper Lindgren, D, MODO J20: The Swedish talent has an appealing blend of speed, skill and intelligence. He has the makings of an offensive defenseman who carries the puck with poise and confidence.

87. Montreal Canadiens: Dmytro Timashov, W, Quebec Remparts: Timashov, who turns 19 in October, was a playmaking machine with the Remparts this year. He racked up 19 goals and 71 assists in 66 matches.

88. Florida Panthers (via Anaheim): Nathan Noel, C, Saint John Sea Dogs: Noel produced quality numbers in his second season with the Sea Dogs, scoring 24 goals and 62 points in 66 games. His stats are a testament to his creativity in the offensive zone.

89. New York Rangers: David Kase, C, KLH Chomutov: The 5’10”, 159-pound Kase is one of the top Czech prospects in the draft. His excellent vision and good mobility are just a couple of his elite offensive tools.

90. Philadelphia Flyers (via NYI): Ryan Larkin, G, Cedar Rapids RoughRiders: The Miami (Ohio) University commit is not the biggest goalie at 6’0", 190 pounds, but he makes up for it with exceptional positioning and good athleticism. He stood his ground with the RoughRiders this past season, posting a 2.43 goals-against average and .919 save percentage in 28 contests.

91. Chicago Blackhawks: Gabriel Gagne, W, Victoriaville Tigres: At 6’5”, 185 pounds, Gagne is a tall, lanky winger who put up respectable numbers this year (35 goals and 59 points in 67 games). His hands, strength and balance are holding him back at this point.

Unless otherwise noted, quotes were obtained firsthand by the writer and all prospect information is via Elite Prospects.