2019 NHL Draft recap

Last weekend, the NHL Draft happened in Vancouver, and there were a few surprises and some trades, most of them happening on the second day. Let's see what each team did.

1. New Jersey Devils-Jack Hughes, C, US NTDP (USHL)

One of two things you could have predicted correctly, the Devils went for the dynamic US-born talent in Hughes. He does come with size concerns, but so did Patrick Kane when he came out for his draft year. He figures to slot in right away as a second-line center behind Nico Hischier, and has the potential to elevate the games of Kyle Palmieri and Blake Coleman.

2. New York Rangers-Kaapo Kakko, RW, TPS (Finland)

The other thing you could have seen coming, the Rangers went for a player that raised his stock in the last year with clutch performances on the world's biggest stages. Had he played more center, it was possible that he could have gone first overall. As it is, Kakko falls into a good situation, playing alongside either Mikka Zibanejad or Chris Kreider.

3. Chicago Blackhawks-Kirby Dach, C, Saskatoon (WHL)

A mild surprise, since Dylan Cozens was seen as the better WHL prospect of the two, but Dach has skill and the potential is higher than Cozens'. A playmaker, he has a great chance to continue to develop his game while both Jonathan Toews and Dylan Strome hold down the fort in Chicago down the middle.

4. Colorado Avalanche-Bowen Byram, D, Vancouver (WHL)

Having the luxury of picking the best player available since they have another pick at 16, the Avs decided to further bolster their blueline with the best defender in the draft. Byram has a few things to clean up, but his stock was helped considerably by his performance in the WHL playoffs. He won't be rushed to Colorado right away, since their defensive unit is good, even if they do decide to move Tyson Barrie.

5. Los Angeles Kings-Alex Turcotte, C, US NTDP (USHL)

Injuries this past year were a concern coming into the draft for Turcotte, but his skill was not. The Wisconsin commit will bring strong two-way play and a chance to shine without playing behind Hughes.

6. Detroit Red Wings-Moritz Seider, D, Mannheim (Germany)

The first real surprise of the draft, Seider wasn't seen as a top 10 pick in most drafts, but his size and puck moving ability are starting points for why he was a worthy first rounder. He's a couple years away, but the potential is there to be at worst, a solid second pairing player.

7. Buffalo Sabres-Dylan Cozens, C, Lethbridge (WHL)

A power forward that has potential to be a top line center, he does need to gain a little weight, but that will come with time. Buffalo needed offense, and Cozens can provide that.

8. Edmonton Oilers-Philip Broberg, D, AIK (Sweden)

His stock took a bit of a hit as his team didn't trust him as much in the second half of the season, but that did not scare off an Oilers team desperate to cobble together a blue line. He has to answer questions about his puck-moving skills, but his size and skating are unquestioned.

9. Anaheim Ducks-Trevor Zegras, C, US NTDP (USHL)

Another center stuck behind Jack Hughes, Zegras is a playmaker that has the ability to shoot, but he will need to have a more prominent role to fully realize his potential, something that will happen at the next level, whether it is Boston University or Mississauga of the OHL.

10. Vancouver Canucks-Vasili Podkolzin, RW, SKA-Neva (Russia)

Thought to have been a top 5 pick, the fact that he will remain in Russia for two years scared off some teams. He has offensive potential, but he also carries a bit of a mean streak, something that Vancouver has needed for years.

11. Arizona Coyotes-Victor Soderstrom, D, Brynas (Sweden)

The Coyotes moved up to this spot by switching spots and giving up their second rounder to Philadelphia. He's not big, but he does have offensive skill that will translate to today's NHL.

12. Minnesota Wild-Matthew Boldy, LW, US NTDP (USHL)

Consistency was an issue with Boldy, but his goal scoring prowess is what caught notice of scouts. He is headed to Boston College, where he will have time to round out his game.

13. Florida Panthers-Spencer Knight, G, US NTDP (USHL)

Florida's goaltending situation is as close to dire straits as it gets, with Roberto Luongo undecided on what he wants to do, James Reimer being a shell of his former self, and Sam Montembault not ready for prime time. There's also nothing behind Montembault, which makes the Knight pick the only one they could have made here. Knight has the potential to be a starter within three years.

14. Philadelphia Flyers-Cam York, D, US NTDP (USHL)

The Flyers traded back from 11 to acquire an extra pick, which they sent to Nashville (that pick had been acquired in a trade with New Jersey) to move up in the second round to take Bobby Brink. On paper, the Flyers should have good defensive depth, but not many of them have developed as hoped. York is an offensive defender who can help on the power play.

15. Montreal Canadiens-Cole Caufield, RW, US NTDP (USHL)

Like Alex DeBrincat in his draft year, Caufield saw his stock drop due to his size. However, he scores a lot, and the Canadiens were desperate for a scoring winger, now that their center depth is now sorted out for the moment.

16. Colorado Avalanche-Alex Newhook, C, Victoria (BCHL)

The Boston College commit put up numbers in the BCHL reminiscent of now-current teammate Tyson Jost when he came into his draft year from the BCHL. He is skilled, but college is a jump from lower level junior. Still, the potential is there to be better than advertised.

17. Vegas Golden Knights-Peyton Krebs, C, Winnipeg (WHL)

Seen as a top-10 pick before an injury that occured a few weeks ago, Krebs already has the character, having played the majority of his WHL career on some bad Kootenay squads. His skill was on full display in the Prospects Game in January when given a shot to perform with better players.

18. Dallas Stars-Thomas Harley, D, Mississauga (OHL)

A solid two-way defender, Harley's offense is only going to get better. Seen as a safe pick, he has the potential to play in the NHL for many seasons.

19. Ottawa Senators-Lassi Thomson, D, Kelowna (WHL)

His shot and puck moving ability are way ahead of his defense, and he is still acclimating to the North American game, but Thomson improved as the season went along, and there is reason to believe he will continue to develop the rest of his game.

20. Winnipeg Jets-Ville Heinola, D, Lukko (Finland)

Winnipeg got this pick back from the Rangers in the Jacob Trouba trade, and they addressed a potential glaring hole on the blue line with a solid puck mover in Heinola. Skating is an issue, but can be corrected, and his overall game reminds many of Miro Heiskanen.

21. Pittsburgh Penguins-Samuel Poulin, LW, Sherbrooke (QMJHL)

Pittsburgh needed to replenish their pipeline, and Poulin brings bloodlines and a power forward presence not seen in Pittsburgh in a while. He has scoring ability, but that is through work ethic more than skill, but his skill isn't something to overlook.

22. Los Angeles Kings-Tobias Bjornfort, D, Djurgarden Jr. (Sweden)

Solid defender who has no standout abilities, he has the leadership capabilities, and can be on an NHL roster for years to come. Still, this seems like the Kings could have gone for better here.

23. New York Islanders-Simon Holmstrom, RW, HV71 Jr. (Sweden)

The Islanders went way off the board here, picking a player who has offensive ability, but also had injury issues. Yes, the Islanders have a deep prospect pool, but was Holmstrom a better pick than someone like Raphael Lavoie, who went 15 spots later and was a higher ranked prospect.

24. Nashville Predators-Philip Tomasino, C, Niagara (OHL)

This was a pick that I thought would happen, given that the Predators are forever in need of center depth. Tomasino didn't get as great of a look, given that Niagara went all in for a deep playoff run, thus pushing him down the lineup, but he's got playmaking skill and is willing to lineup wherever a team wants him. Effort is also unquestioned.

25. Washington Capitals-Connor McMichael, C, London (OHL)

Though he didn't have a major role this year due to the depth that London seems to boast every year, McMichael has the ability to be even better once he gets prime opportunites. He does need to bulk up, but his ability to put up points is something that happens thanks to his economic style.

26. Calgary Flames-Jakob Pelletier, LW, Moncton (QMJHL)

Size is an issue, as Pelletier needs to bulk up badly, but he has offensive skill and his hockey sense is one of the best in the draft class. Despite his size, he can also play a possession game.

27. Tampa Bay Lightning-Nolan Foote, LW, Kelowna (WHL)

The Lightning opted to go back to the Foote well, as they had drafted Nolan's brother Cal a few years earlier. He's a power play weapon with his shot, but does need to improve both his skating and consistency of effort.

28. Carolina Hurricanes-Ryan Suzuki, C, Barrie (OHL)

A playmaker who does have questions to answer in terms of compete level, Suzuki is a candidate to be moved to a better OHL team and see if better players around him causes the light to turn on.

29. Anaheim Ducks-Brayden Tracy, LW, Moose Jaw (WHL)

Taken a little higher than most expected, Tracy has offensive skill, as his numbers show, but he will need to elevate his game with some of Moose Jaw's veterans moving on.

30. Boston Bruins-Johnny Beecher, C, US NTDP (USHL)

Another product of the US NTDP, Beecher is a big man. Consistency and hockey sense are questioned, but the Bruins do well with players like Beecher, who will have time to round out his game in Michigan.

31. Buffalo Sabres-Ryan Johnson, D, Sioux Falls (USHL)

He has some bulking up to do, but his skill set reminds many of Kris Letang, meaning that he can start an offense from his own end without much effort.

As for trades, Toronto salary dumped Patrick Marleau to Carolina and Nashville moved PK Subban to New Jersey for draft picks, Steven Santini and prospect Jeremy Davies.

NHL Draft First Round Recap

The NHL Draft is in the books, and while the first two picks were easy to figure out (those were the only two I got correct), the rest provided some interesting moments.

1. Buffalo Sabres-Rasmus Dahlin, D, Frolunda (Sweden)

This was just a formality, as Dahlin is a generational talent on the blue line. He does everything well, and should easily step in as the Sabres' second best defenseman after Rasmus Ristolainen. He may very well be the team's best defender by the end of the season. He was the beginning of the Sabres' attempt to rebuild the blue line, as Mattias Samuelsson was taken at the beginning of the second round, and he should provide a physical presence.

2. Carolina Hurricanes-Andrei Svechnikov, RW, Barrie (OHL)

Carolina needs scoring, and Svechnikov provides that in numbers. His play off the puck isn't bad, but he may need to gain a little weight to withstand the rigors of the NHL. Still, his goal scoring is welcome on a team that may be getting a roster makeover soon. That makeover began in earnest today, as Elias Lindholm and Noah Hanifin go to Calgary while Dougie Hamilton, Micheal Ferland, and Adam Fox come to Carolina. It feels like a shuffling of chairs, but Ferland provides a physical presence the team has lacked for years while Hamilton provides the team security in terms of contract term. The move also means the Hurricanes won't have the pain of renegotiating with either Lindholm or Hanifin, as both were set to be RFAs soon.

3. Montreal Canadiens-Jesperi Kotkaniemi, C, Assat (Finland)

While it may look on the surface that Montreal may have reached to get a center, a position that they have long been unable to fill in any way, shape, or form, Kotkaniemi had been rising on the draft boards in recent weeks. He's no generational talent, but great centers don't often grow on trees, and Kotkaniemi may yet to realize his full potential, especially if Montreal's front office and coaching staff don't foul it up.

4. Ottawa Senators-Brady Tkachuk, LW, Boston University (Hockey East)

The departure of Mike Hoffman opened a need for a scoring winger, and Tkachuk provides that. He also has the same snarl that his father Keith and brother Matthew have, and that should make the Senators a little harder to play against. His timetable to play in the NHL may be sooner than you think if he signs with the team in the next month or so.

5. Arizona Coyotes-Barrett Hayton, C, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)

I've been on record as saying that the Coyotes reached on this pick. He wasn't projected until the middle of the first round, but given that Kotkaniemi went off the board, the Coyotes got spooked into reaching here. This may also be a pick that proves me wrong at this time next year, since Hayton is slated to have a more prominent role on the Greyhounds if he stays there.

6. Detroit Red Wings-Filip Zadina, RW, Halifax (QMJHL)

Conversely, I loved that Detroit picked Zadina here despite the team's massive hole on the blue line. Sometimes, the best available player is there and you just have to go for it. Detroit did well here, and their scoring is going to be better for it. This wasn't the only good thing the Red Wings did in the Draft, as you'll find out later.

7. Vancouver Canucks-Quinn Hughes, D, Michigan (Big10)

Hughes is short even by today's standards, but he provides the team a much needed offensive spark, and with no real game breaker on the Canucks plus some level of uncertainty with Olli Juolevi, it was wise of the Canucks to further bolster their blue line.

8. Chicago Blackhawks-Adam Boqvist, D, Byrnas Jr. (Sweden)

The Blackhawks need help just about everywhere in the pipeline, but they really needed it the most on the blue line. Boqvist is an offensive force from the blue line with some defensive issues (think Erik Karlsson in his draft year), but given that there isn't much for the Blackhawks right now combined with their two best defenders nearing 35, they need all the help they can get.

9. New York Rangers-Vitali Kravtsov, RW, Chelyabinsk (KHL)

Kravtsov wasn't projected to be going until the middle of the first round, and certainly, I had him not at all in the first round, given that Russian players in the draft that aren't potential superstars are rarely certainties. Kravtsov will need to add weight, but his skill set isn't far from what Valeri Nichushkin and Denis Gurianov were in their draft years. Like the Dallas Stars' prospects, Kravtsov carries question marks about whether he wants to be in North America, but he should provide the Rangers a physical presence should he decide to come across the pond.

10. Edmonton Oilers-Evan Bouchard, D, London (OHL)

The Oilers' search for defensemen continues, and Bouchard has the best all-around game of every defenseman not named Rasmus Dahlin. He should continue to develop in London and the Oilers should be thrilled that a player of his caliber fell here.

11. New York Islanders-Oliver Wahlstrom, RW, US NTDP (USHL)

There is still uncertainty with John Tavares, as he is going to talk to five teams in addition to the Islanders before making his decision. In the interim, the Islanders picked a pure goal scorer in Whalstrom. However, unlike Kiefer Bellows, Whalstrom may have the potential to be a little more, as he has power forward ability once he unlocks his full potential.

12. New York Islanders (from Calgary)-Noah Dobson, D, Acadie-Bathurst (QMJHL)

The run on defensemen I thought was going to happen earlier this round didn't happen until a little later. Fortunately for the Islanders, it brings them Dobson, a player that needs to fill out, but is already a winner, having won a league title and the Memorial Cup with the Titan. His skill set is also intriguing, as he is just as good as the other prospects, and has a height advantage over most of them.

13. Dallas Stars-Ty Dellandrea, C, Flint (OHL)

If Barrett Hayton had the talent lever that Dellandrea had around him, Hayton would have been right around this spot. As it is, Dellandrea is every bit the player Hayton is, but with proven character, as he had been drafted by the Firebirds when they had their ownership problems. The numbers are comparable, and Dellandrea can produce regardless of who's around him.

14. Philadelphia Flyers (from St. Louis)-Joel Farabee, LW, US NTDP (USHL)

The Flyers were incredibly frustrating in this round, as Farabee was a smart pick. They have no obvious holes in their pipeline, and Farabee has proven that he can play with superstars. You can never have enough scorers, and that is what Farabee can do.

15. Florida Panthers-Grigori Denisenko, LW, Yaroslavl 2 (Russia)

Denisenko is a Russian equivalent of Brad Marchand in that his play can sometimes go over the line. However, like Marchand, Denisenko is also capable of scoring, and given that Florida lacks snarl, this is an okay move. It would have been better had he not had the Russian factor hanging over his head, as he may be a while in coming over.

16. Colorado Avalanche-Martin Kaut, RW, Pardubice (Czech Republic)

Kaut is seen as a safe pick, as the worst he could end up in the NHL is third liner. The Avalanche coincidentally need secondary scoring, which is exactly what Kaut provides. If Kaut comes to North America to play, as reported by local sources, that may speed up his development.

17. New Jersey Devils-Ty Smith, D, Spokane (WHL)

Despite making the playoffs, the Devils' defensive depth was on full display, as they got repeatedly torched by Tampa Bay in the first round. Smith is similar to Will Butcher in that offensive upside may be limited, but he is responsible in his own end. With no real playmaker on the blue line available at this spot, the Devils picked the best available here.

18. Columbus Blue Jackets-Liam Foudy, C, London (OHL)

Columbus reached here a little, but like with Barrett Hayton, this pick may be looking good this time next year. Foudy is fast, and Columbus needs some speed down the middle. His offensive numbers looked way better in the second half of the season, and he is in line for a bigger role in London next season.

19. Philadelphia Flyers-Jay O'Brien, C, Thayer Academy (USHS)

Remember when I said the Flyers were a frustrating team in this round? This is why. O'Brien wasn't even projected to go until possibly the third round, yet the Flyers took him here. Why didn't they trade out of the pick? Better yet, why did they leave Joe Veleno on the board? You want to pick a center that badly, Veleno would have been a good pick here. Instead, this one has Mark Jankowski written all over it, as O'Brien may not even be ready for 4-5 years, and even then, he doesn't have high level talent potential.

20. Los Angeles Kings-Rasmus Kupari, C, Karpat (Finland)

Before Jesperi Kotkaniemi ascended the draft boards at a rapid pace, Kupari was relatively close in terms of which Finnish center would come off the boards first. Kupari tailed off a little in the second half, but his potential is there, and the Kings' continued commitment to speed in the draft rewards them here.

21. San Jose Sharks-Ryan Merkley, D, Guelph (OHL)

This pick has either the potential to be a home run or a major bust. Merkley has talent that would have put him in the top five of this year's draft. His attitude is what caused him to slide down the boards to possibly second round in some cases. In other words, he will either be PK Subban or Anthony D'Angelo in terms of what he can be in the NHL.

22. New York Rangers (from Ottawa via Pittsburgh)-K'Andre Miller, D, US NTDP (USHL)

The Rangers traded up to pick a project in Miller, as he's only been on the blue line for about three years. However, the potential surrounding him is immense and he could very well be the best pick the Rangers made this round, especially if he uses his time in Wisconsin wisely.

23. Anaheim Ducks-Isac Lundestrom, C, Lulea (Sweden)

Solid, two-way player and fills a need for the Ducks down the middle, as they are facing potential problems with center depth soon with Ryan Kesler likely missing this coming season to surgery and the uncertainty of what he can be if he comes back. Given Ryan Getzlaf is nearing his mid-30's, passing on Joe Veleno could be a mistake down the line, but Lundestrom provides more in terms of being a safe pick.

24. Minnesota Wild-Filip Johansson, D, Leskand Jr. (Sweden)

With a number of defensemen on the board and the Wild needing somebody there, Johansson isn't the best pick available, but he is solid in all areas. He may need a couple of years to put on weight, but it's not a bad pick here.

25. St. Louis Blues (from Toronto)-Dominik Bokk, RW, Vaxjo Jr. (Sweden)

Bokk provides scoring, something that the Blues lacked. However, they also needed a center, which once again, Veleno would have provided. This may turn out to be the pick that the Blues regret lest Robert Thomas is that second line center next year and/or Bokk turns out to be the second coming of Vladimir Tarasenko.

26. Ottawa Senators (from NY Rangers via Boston)-Jacob Bernard-Docker, D, Okotoks (AJHL)

At this point, you could put in a number of defensemen here and it would be good to decent. Bernard-Docker is actually the safest pick of the defensemen available, as nothing truly stands out, but he also doesn't make many mistakes. North Dakota awaits him next year.

27. Chicago (from Nashville)-Nicolas Beaudin, D, Drummondville (QMJHL)

Another undersized defender picked by the Blackhawks, I thought this would have been where they either took a forward or took a gamble on Bode Wilde. Still, Beaudin is a good pick that was often overshadowed by fellow QMJHL defenseman Noah Dobson. He will provide offense and maybe more if he adds weight.

28. New York Rangers (from Tampa Bay)-Nils Lundkvist, D, Lulea (Sweden)

Even this late in the first round, Lundkvist is a bit of a reach. However, his potential isn't bad and the Rangers can afford to let him develop for a while, especially with the glut of defenders already in the system.

29. Toronto Maple Leafs (from St. Louis via Winnipeg)-Rasmus Sandin, D, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)

I thought Sandin would have gone higher than most. Toronto was able to trade down and still get the guy they wanted plus extra picks. Sandin has offensive upside and will likely spend an extra year in major junior.

30. Detroit Red Wings (from Vegas)-Joe Veleno, C, Drummondville (QMJHL)

Shockingly, Veleno was the one to take the free fall in the draft. Fortunately, Detroit decided to take the best player available, and despite needing defenders (they would take Jared McIssac a few picks later), it's hard to pass on a player of Veleno's caliber. Great pick by Detroit here, as it seems to be the theme for them throughout the draft.

31. Washington Capitals-Alexander Alexeyev, D, Red Deer (WHL)

This is the Brooks Orpik replacement pick. Alexeyev had an up and down season, but he carries size and a physical component. Offense may be an issue, but character is not, as he had left Red Deer to be with family after the death of his mother and came back to finish the season in time for the WHL playoffs, where he played with an injured finger.

NHL Draft Grades

The NHL Draft has come and gone, and I've had a little time to assess what every team has done. If you're keeping score on how many predictions I got right, I got Cale Makar, Cody Glass, and Owen Tippett with the correct teams and in the right slots, plus Klim Kostin going to the right team, but 11 slots lower than expected (he went 31st overall). Now, it's time to look at what each team did and hand out arbitrary grades.

Anaheim Ducks: The Ducks lost their first round pick in the Patrick Eaves deal, and given that they just resigned him to a new deal, it appears to be a first round pick well spent. They did incredibly well to pick up both Maxime Comtois and Antoine Morand in the second round while they addressed their potential black hole in the goalie pipeline with Olle Eriksson-Ek in the fifth round. Jack Badini and Kyle Olson were also picked, and clearly, the Ducks have confidence in their blue line, as none of the picks were defensemen. Grade: B+

Arizona Coyotes: Most of their picks were on the blue line, with Pierre-Olivier Joseph having the most potential of the bunch. He needs to add weight, but he has all of the makings of another Oliver Ekman-Larsson. I didn't like that they didn't take a goalie in the draft, as it's rather barren beyond Adin Hill, but I did like Tyler Steenbergen, as he could be a steal in the fifth round. Grade: B-

Boston Bruins: The Bruins went predominantly centers and defensemen, with no wingers taken. Urho Vaakanainen was a safe pick, and given Jakub Zboril's slight regression in his development, it's not a bad pick. Jack Studnicka was a pick I liked here, as he fits the Bruins mold for centers. Grade: B

Buffalo Sabres: The Sabres picked the best player available when it came time for their turn in the first round in Casey Mittelstadt. He will need a year, minimum, but he can eventually slot in behind Jack Eichel as a number two center. Other than Ukko-Pekka Lukkonen, however, the rest of the draft wasn't necessarily that great, as I thought they took a little long to address their blue line deficiencies. Grade: B-

Calgary Flames: For just having one pick in the first three rounds, the Flames made it count, as Juuso Valimaki will eventually slot in with TJ Brodie once he gets developed. The rest of their draft was throwing darts and hoping they hit the bullseye, but they did pick up Travis Hamonic in a trade, bolstering their blue line right away. Grade: C (not counting the Hamonic trade)

Carolina Hurricanes: The Hurricanes need a number one center, and while Martin Necas doesn't necessarily have that ceiling, he does provide speed, another aspect that the Hurricanes currently lack. Most of their picks have rather low ceilings, but are largely safe bets for lower end roles if they make the NHL, especially Stelio Mattheos. Grade: B

Chicago Blackhawks: With losing Trevor van Riemsdyk and Niklas Hjalmarsson in the days leading up to the draft, it was no surprise that the majority of their picks were defensemen. Henri Jokiharju was a reach, but he fits what the Blackhawks want out of their defensemen. With nine picks, the Blackhawks filled every position except in goal, where they could have used someone for much later. Grade: B

Colorado Avalanche: The Avs needed to hit a homerun on their first pick, and with Cale Makar, that's exactly what they did. While he is a year away, minimum, he has all of the makings of a franchise defender. They also did well in drafting Connor Timmins in the second round, further fortifying their shaky blue line. The rest of the draft wasn't as inspiring. Grade: B+

Columbus Blue Jackets: With no first round pick this year, the Blue Jackets could afford to just simply add warm bodies into the prospect pool. Picking Alexandre Texier was a surprise choice, but he fits exactly what the Blue Jackets want in a player, as he provides grit. Grade: C+

Dallas Stars: The Stars addressed their biggest problems in the first round, as Miro Heiskanen will add stability to a blue line that sorely lacked a steady presence while Jake Oettinger adds a top end goalie that should be ready by the time Ben Bishop's contract ends. They also drafted Dylan Ferguson, who got flipped for Marc Methot, further helping their blue line. Grade: B+ (moved up to A- after the trade for Methot)

Detroit Red Wings: For the most part, it was about getting as many players as they could for the Red Wings. They did fill a need for offense in Michael Rasmussen, who also happens to fill a size need as well. It helps that he can skate well. I liked the pick of Keith Petruzzelli, who could figure into the golatending future if he picks up a few extra pounds and develops as expected in college. Grade: C

Edmonton Oilers: They took a major chance on Kailer Yamamoto, but not based on skill. He's got a fair amount of filling out to do, but only a 5'9" frame to work with. However, his skill set should work with either Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl. Getting Stuart Skinner in the third round was also a smart move. Grade: B

Florida Panthers: The Panthers only had five picks, but they already have a considerably deep prospect pool. Getting the best scorer available in Owen Tippett was great, though reaching for Aleksi Heponiemi could be the bigger payoff if he gains weight, as he's just a buck-forty. Grade: B-

Los Angeles Kings: The Kings are still in salary cap hell, given they're still on the books for both Dustin Brown and Marian Gaborik. However, they did incredibly well in the draft, going down the middle with all their picks, as only wingers were not picked. Getting Gabe Vilardi at 11 was smart, as was picking up a rising Jaret Anderson-Dolan. Matt Villalta is another option in the eventuality that Jonathan Quick will retire, but the Kings hope that won't happen for a few years. Grade: B+

Minnesota Wild: Without a first or second round pick, the Wild had to make the most out of what they did have, and it seems like only Ivan Lodnia could be a potential NHLer. Size was largely ignored, as four out of the six picks are under 6' and only one breaks the 200 pound mark. Grade: D+

Montreal Canadiens: The Canadiens need scorers, and none of the picks look like a gamebreaking scorer. As a matter of fact, none of the picks were wingers. Ryan Poehling's potential ceiling is 60 points while they appeared to overcompensate for losing Mikhail Sergachev by adding four defenders. Grade: C-

Nashville Predators: The Predators paid lip service to each of the positions, with every spot getting one player richer after the draft. The best picks were Eeli Tolvanen, a pure goal scorer who fell to them at 30 and may very well begin his pro career sooner rather than later, and Jacob Paquette, the second to last pick in the draft who could see his numbers go up with a bigger role in Kingston. Grade: A

New Jersey Devils: They get a passing grade just for picking Nico Hischier, a player that may need another year in major junior, as he needs to pack on a few pounds, but he provides a dynamic presence down the middle. While they didn't fill their blue line needs until late, they did pick up a potential steal in the fourth round in Nikita Popugaev, who fell due to a drop in production late in the draft year. Grade: A-

New York Islanders: The Islanders went defensemen with their first three picks and left wingers with their last two picks. It is debatable whether any of them will have an impact, but the trade of Travis Hamonic for a 2018 first round pick indicates they may be hedging their bets in the case that this year doesn't pan out for them. Grade: C

New York Rangers: They reached on their two first round picks, but Lias Andersson was a solid pick while Filip Chytil could surprise if he pans out. The Rangers are still in win-now mode, as none of this year's picks are expected to contribute in two years. Grade: C+

Ottawa Senators: For just having four picks, the Senators did pretty well in shoring up their depth. Shane Bowers isn't a top center, though the draft was pretty thin on top centers after Hischier and Nolan Patrick, but he should be no worse than a quality third line center. Alex Formenton could be another London Knight that breaks out post-draft year while Jordan Hollett was a value pick late in the draft and could be a factor in net. Grade: B-

Philadelphia Flyers: Nolan Patrick was obviously a great pick, as he now figures to make the opening night roster thanks to a trade that sees the Flyers saying good-bye to Brayden Schenn. Morgan Frost was a reach, but they made up for it in value by taking Isaac Ratcliffe in the second round and Matthew Strome in the fourth round. The Flyers continue to replenish their pipeline, and now, all facets appear to be plentiful. Grade: A

Pittsburgh Penguins: The Penguins traded out of the first round to take Ryan Reaves, who figures to be the cop on a team that can use one. As for the actual draft, the Penguins drafted four defenders, with the best potential going to Zach Lauzon. As is the case with recent drafts, the Penguins are in no hurry to rush any of their prospects. Grade: B+

San Jose Sharks: They reached for Josh Norris, but the potential as a Logan Couture clone was great, and the Sharks would gladly take it if that is the case. The Sharks stocked themselves down the middle with two other centers, a need that may be coming if Joe Thornton bolts in free agency. Grade: B-

St. Louis Blues: The Blues added Brayden Schenn and lost Ryan Reaves in draft day trades, and they added a solid two way player in Robert Thomas, as well as power forward Klim Kostin in the draft. They addressed their blue line late in the draft. Grade: B

Tampa Bay Lightning: Going with mostly centers in the draft, their best pick was defenseman Callan Foote, who suddenly gives the Lightning a strong prospect pool of defenders, which includes recently acquired Mikhail Sergachev. If Alexander Volkov and Alexei Lipanov come over to North America within a few years, they stand a decent chance of making an impact on the Lightning. Grade: B+

Toronto Maple Leafs: Timothy Liljegren headlines a pretty good draft pool for the Maple Leafs, and while he had a poor season, his potential is such that he could be the offensive starter from the blue line that the Leaf have lacked since Tomas Kaberle. Eemeli Rasanen is an intriguing defender who is a project, but has the size to be a difference maker while Ian Scott is a good option in goal. Grade: A-

Vancouver Canucks: Elias Pettersson was a slight reach in the first round, but his potential marks out to be a number two center, at worst, once the Sedins move on. Their next three picks were great, as Kole Lind and Jonah Gadjovich were solid picks, as was goalie Michael DiPietro. Grade: B+

Vegas Golden Knights: The Golden Knights' plan was go down the middle, and they did incredibly well with most of those picks. Cody Glass was a great pick at six while Nick Suzuki figures to slot behind him within a couple of years. Erik Brannstrom was a bit of a reach, but Nic Hague was a solid value pick in the second round. One sleeper to watch is Jake Leschyshyn, who figures to get a bigger role with Regina next season. Grade: A

Washington Capitals: Bereft of a draft pick for the first three rounds, this looks like a throwaway draft for the Capitals. None look like a contributor down the line, but the Caps have proven people wrong before. It's just harder to say so for this year. Grade: F

Winnipeg Jets: Though well stocked on prospects, the Jets did alright this year, with Kristian Vesalainen providing a possible big body that can score up front, thus cutting down on the possibility of moving Dustin Byfuglien to forward. Dylan Samberg is a few years away, but he has potential on the blue line. Grade: B-

Getting Ready for the NHL Draft

With the NHL season coming to its conclusion on Sunday, that means the order for the 2017 NHL Draft is now finalized. Starting Thursday, I will make my predictions (sure to go wrong) on who goes where based on the order. Here is the order, as it stands right now.

1-New Jersey Devils

2-Philadelphia Flyers

3-Dallas Stars

4-Colorado Avalanche

5-Vancouver Canucks

6-Vegas Golden Knights

7-Arizona Coyotes

8-Buffalo Sabres

9-Detroit Red Wings

10-Florida Panthers

11-Los Angeles Kings

12-Carolina Hurricanes

13-Winnipeg Jets

14-Tampa Bay Lightning

15-New York Islanders

16-Calgary Flames

17-Toronto Maple Leafs

18-Boston Bruins

19-San Jose Sharks

20-St. Louis Blues

21-New York Rangers

22-Edmonton Oilers

23-Arizona Coyotes (from Minnesota)

24-Columbus Blue Jackets

25-Montreal Canadiens

26-Chicago Blackhawks

27-St. Louis Blues (from Washington)

28-Ottawa Senators

29-Dallas Stars (from Anaheim)

30-Nashville Predators

31-Pittsburgh Penguins

2016 NHL Draft First Round Recap

With the 2016 NHL Draft in the books, and the ever-constant hand-wringing over with, I will begin recapping all of the happenings of the Draft, beginning with the first round. The actual pick, plus what I thought would be the pick will be put here.

1. Toronto Maple Leafs: Auston Matthews, C, Zurich (Switzerland)

As expected, the Leafs picked up their number one center that they've lacked since Mats Sundin last put on their sweater. He held up well against older competition in Europe, and also played well in the World Juniors, and he will bring both offensive and defensive skills to a team in need of both.

My pick: Matthews

2. Winnipeg Jets: Patrik Laine, RW, Tappara (Finland)

No surprise that Laine goes to the Jets, as he provides them a goal scorer that will inevitably draw comparisons to former Jet Teemu Selanne. A big body, if he learns how to use it, this pick could be even better.

My pick: Laine

3. Columbus Blue Jackets: Pierre-Luc Dubois, LW, Cape Breton (QMJHL)

The first curve ball of the draft, the Blue Jackets pass on Jesse Puljujarvi, who was widely viewed as the more complete player of the two, and go for versatility in Dubois, who can also play center, a sore spot for the Blue Jackets. A head-scratcher, for sure, but that was hardly the only issue that left the Blue Jackets fans screaming in anger. However, 42 goals last season is a cause for optimism here.

My pick: Jesse Puljujarvi

4. Edmonton Oilers: Jesse Puljujarvi, RW, Karpat (Finland)

The Blue Jackets' loss is Edmonton's gain, as Puljujarvi falls to an Edmonton team that will welcome him as a possible linemate of Connor McDavid. Like Dubois, Puljujarvi is a power forward with few issues. The Oilers needed a defender, but they would hit a potential jackpot later in the draft.

My pick: Olli Juolevi

5. Vancouver Canucks: Olli Juolevi, D, London (OHL)

The Canucks needed offense, and probably should have gone with Matthew Tkachuk. However, they also needed a top-defender that can move the puck out of the zone, as Ben Hutton isn't quite top-defender material. Juolevi provides the Canucks with that answer, and what was a weakness all season now looks a little better.

My pick: Pierre-Luc Dubois

6. Calgary Flames: Matthew Tkachuk, LW, London (OHL)

Knights players go back-to-back, as Tkachuk heads to a Calgary team that sees him as the potential muscle to go along with Johnny Gaudreau and Sean Monahan. He has work to do on his skating, but everything else points to him replicating the success of his father Keith.

My pick: Tkachuk

7. Arizona Coyotes: Clayton Keller, C, USNTDP

A surprise pick, the Coyotes went with an offensive dynamo that is a little on the small side. Keller's numbers are comparable to Patrick Kane's when he was drafted, and he will be given time to develop in college or in Windsor.

My pick: Mikhail Sergachev

8. Buffalo Sabres: Alexander Nylander, LW, Mississauga (OHL)

Speed, quickness, and playmaking ability are what the younger Nylander brings to a Sabres team that already has Jack Eichel and Sam Reinhart. Another solid pick by a Sabres team that looks ready to make a playoff push next season.

My pick: Tyson Jost

9. Montreal Canadiens: Mikhail Sergachev, D, Windsor (OHL)

The best offensive defender in the draft, Sergachev provided points on a Windsor squad that overachieved last season. His defense is coming around, but he also has some bite to his game. An eventual replacement for Andrei Markov.

My pick: Alexander Nylander

10. Colorado Avalanche: Tyson Jost, C, Penticton (BCHL)

This was a pick that I was critical of when I first heard it, largely because most of Colorado's problems had to do with letting too many shots get to the goalie. Of course, it doesn't help if the forwards can't hold on to the puck or have little interest in playing defense, either. Jost models his game after Jonathan Toews, and while he is likely going to be a year or two away at North Dakota, he may also end up just as good in the long run.

My pick: Jakob Chychrun

11. Ottawa Senators: Logan Brown, C, Windsor (OHL)

The Senators swapped picks with New Jersey, meaning the Senators got the opportunity to pick here. Brown provides size down the middle, and at this point, he is just learning how to utilize his size better. The finished product promises to be a top-line center with Joe Thornton qualities.

My pick: Clayton Keller (New Jersey), Logan Brown (Ottawa)

12. New Jersey: Michael McLeod, C, Mississauga (OHL)

The Devils moved down a spot while picking up an extra draft pick. The result was them taking possibly the fastest skater in the draft in McLeod, who put up good numbers next to Alexander Nylander in juniors.

My pick: Logan Brown (Ottawa), Clayton Keller (New Jersey)

13. Carolina Hurricanes: Jake Bean, D, Calgary (WHL)

The Hurricanes went with another defender in their quest to build an actual NHL-caliber blue line. Bean is more of an offensive player at this point in his development, and needs to add weight, but the Hurricanes are envisioning him as another puck mover to go along with Noah Hanifin.

My pick: Michael McLeod

14. Boston Bruins: Charlie McAvoy, D, Boston University

Another offensive defender, McAvoy is a right-handed defender, which appears to be in short supply these days. Solidly built at 6', 200 lbs., if he learns to utilize it to his advantage, he can be a puck mover that would be hard to move off the puck.

My pick: McAvoy

15. Minnesota Wild: Luke Kunin, C, Wisconsin

The Wild picked up Kunin, who put up good numbers despite playing on a terrible Wisconsin team. Kunin produced in all situations and has considerable upside as a top two line player.

My pick: Kiefer Bellows

16. Arizona Coyotes: Jakob Chychrun, D, Sarnia (OHL)

The Coyotes swapped picks with Detroit in a move that also saw the Coyotes take on the recently NHL-retired Pavel Datsyuk's contract. Chychrun was widely though to be the one that took a tumble down the draft board, and Arizona was the one to stop the fall and take the defender that they needed. Solid player all-around, he's comfortable being in the spotlight, which translate into a top four spot.

My pick: Jake Bean

17. Nashville Predators: Dante Fabbro, D, Penticton (BCHL)

It's never too early to think about life after Shea Weber, and the Preds take Fabbro, who has considerable skills that will be put to the test in college. Expected to join Charlie McAvoy at Boston University, he will get a chance to add to an already impressive offensive arsenal.

My pick: Fabbro

18. Winnipeg Jets: Logan Stanley, D, Windsor (OHL)

The Jets swapped picks with the Flyers to pick up a shutdown defender in Stanley. History suggests that picking a tall defender in the first round hasn't always panned out (see: Valabik, Boris in 2004 by the Jets' former incarnation the Atlanta Thrashers and Cowen, Jared in 2009 by Ottawa). However, the Jets do need to think about an eventual replacement for Mark Stuart, and with time, Stanley figures to be the guy.

My pick: Max Jones

19. New York Islanders: Kiefer Bellows, LW, USNTDP

Bellows is the son of former NHL prolific scorer Brian, and it's obvious that the scoring touch passed down to Kiefer. While he has work to do in every other aspect of his game, the Islanders should be thrilled that a 50-goal scorer, as the younger Bellows did with the U.S. Development team did, slid down to them.

My pick: Riley Tufte

20. Detroit Red Wings: Dennis Cholowski, D, Chilliwack (BCHL)

A raw talent on the blue line, his offense is way ahead of his defense at this point. He will have time to develop in college, and the expectation is that Detroit will finally have a number one defender that they've been missing since Nicklas Lidstrom retired.

My pick: Logan Stanley

21. Carolina Hurricanes: Julien Gauthier, RW, Val D'Or (QMJHL)

With the recent run of defensemen in the first round, the Hurricanes decide to address their front line and pick another prolific goal scorer in Gauthier. Like most goal scorers of his body type, he is learning to use it to his advantage, and when he figures it out, the Canes should be getting the power forward they've lacked since Andrew Ladd left town.

My pick: Gauthier

22. Philadelphia Flyers: German Rubstov, C, Russia

A two-way player from Russia is generally regarded as an anomaly, but that is what Rubstov brings to the Flyers. He does need to gain some weight, he figures to be a player that can be considered Selke material.

My pick: Libor Hajek

23. Florida Panthers: Henrik Borgstrom, C, HIFK Jr. (Finland Jr.)

A Finnish player committed to Denver University, Borgstrom will have time to put on some weight, but his playmaking skills were a big draw, as was his upside.

My pick: Alex DeBrincat

24. Anaheim Ducks: Max Jones, LW, London (OHL)

The Ducks needed to get back to the things that won them a Stanley Cup in 2007, and that meant getting a mean customer. This is where Max Jones steps in, and along with Nick Ritchie, he figures to make the Ducks harder to play against in the future, particularly if he finds the right balance of toughness and discipline.

My pick: Markus Niemelainen

25. Dallas Stars: Riley Tufte, LW, Fargo (USHL)

The future power forward actually played high school hockey for much of last season, but finished the season in Fargo, where he draws comparisons to Nick Bjugstad. A little more weight, something that can be accomplished in his time at Minnesota-Duluth, and he can be the power forward the Stars need to go along with Jamie Benn.

My pick: German Rubstov

26. St. Louis Blues: Tage Thompson, C, Connecticut

The first player taken in the first round from Connecticut University, Thompson has all of the makings of a power forward that can someday replace David Backes.

My pick: Dennis Cholowski

27. Tampa Bay Lightning: Brett Howden, C, Moose Jaw (WHL)

A big center that can play a two-way game, he figures to get more prominent ice time next season with current Moose Jaw and future Lightning teammate Brayden Point moving on. That should help him refine his game.

My pick: Howden

28. Washington Capitals: Lucas Johansen, D, Kelowna (WHL)

A better offensive defender at this point in his development, he does need to gain more strength and seemingly thrives with more ice time, something that he will see more of next season.

My pick: Pascal Laberge

29. Boston Bruins: Trent Frederic, C, USNTDP

A reach by the Bruins, they project him to be a third-liner. What he does offer is future power forward material, but the Bruins could have had Nathan Bastian at this point in the draft. If there is a worst pick of the first round, this would be it for me.

My pick: Nathan Bastian

30. Anaheim Ducks: Sam Steel, C, Regina (WHL)

The Ducks got size and power with their first pick, and now, they have speed and skill to go along with it. Steel didn't put up the numbers expected of him this season, but his skill set is too good to ignore here.

My pick: Lucas Johansen

Mining for Undrafted Gold

The 2016 NHL Draft is this weekend, and there will be a number of players who will hear their name called. However, not all players eligible for the draft will be called, and as is the case every year, there will be a few of those undrafted players that slip through the cracks and get picked up by an NHL team that does their homework. So, to that end, let's run through some of the most notable players to have never been drafted and their impact on the NHL.

Ed Belfour: His picture was the first thing that came up, so it's only natural to talk about him first. Undrafted coming out of North Dakota, he signed with Chicago after the 1986-87 season, and all he did was win the Calder Trophy in 1991, win the Vezina Trophy the first two out of the three years of his career, win a Stanley Cup in 1999, and end up third on the all-time wins list. Oh, and his mask is one of the most recognizable pieces of headgear in hockey history.

Martin St. Louis: Undrafted coming out of Vermont University, he signed with Calgary in 1998, but made little impact there. For a buck and a song, the Tampa Bay Lightning came calling in 2000, where he proceeded to rewrite the record books there, winning an Art Ross Trophy, Hart Trophy, and the Stanley Cup in what was considered a banner year for him in 2004. He would later go on to win three Lady Byng Trophies and a gold medal in 2014 with Team Canada. Not bad for a guy considered too small to play.

Tyler Johnson: Like St. Louis, he had size concerns that scared off teams. However, Johnson did have credentials coming into the NHL, as he helped Spokane of the WHL win the Ed Chynoweth and Memorial Cup trophies in 2008. After signing with the Lightning in 2011, he made the All-Rookie team in 2014 and was an integral part of the Lightning team that made the Stanley Cup Finals in 2015. He figures to be another success story for the Lightning's ability to find talent under 6-foot.

Adam Oates: Undrafted coming out of RPI, Oates found a great deal of success with multiple teams after originally signing with Detroit in 1985. His greatest successes were feeding Brett Hull in St. Louis and Cam Neeely in Boston, with the former stop seeing Hull net an 86-goal season with Oates as his set-up man. Despite never winning a trophy, Oates was a premier set-up man who was annually in the discussion for the Lady Byng Trophy as the most gentlemanly player.

Dino Ciccarelli: One of the more underappreciated players on this list, he was signed by the Minnesota North Stars in 1979, but played another year in London for the Knights. He netted two 50-goal seasons with the North Stars, and would go on to net the most goals of any undrafted player. He made the Hall of Fame in 2010.

Borje Salming: There was once a time where European players were not looked upon in the NHL Draft, and Salming was a prime example of a team's scouts doing due dilligence. The Toronto Maple Leafs signed in 1973, He would go on to become one of the best Maple Leaf players in the Howard Ballard-era, providing one of the few bright spots on some of the more dismal Leafs teams of the 70's and 80's. He made the Hall of Fame in 1996 and would pave the way for the likes of future Maple Leaf legend Mats Sundin and Peter Forsberg to make their marks in the NHL.

There are many more players who have made an impact such as Mark Giordano, Josh Gorges, Dan Boyle, and Joe Mullen. However, quite possibly the greatest player in the NHL was never drafted. Wayne Gretzky was actually signed to a professional contract by Indianapolis of the WHA, but was sold to Edmonton when they were in the WHA. When the Oilers made the jump to the NHL, he was on the protected list, and thus allowed to begin his NHL career with them.

NHL Draft Analysis

Free-agency begins tomorrow, and there is much to get through before then, and one of those things is the NHL Draft, which was completed this weekend.  The first round went according to plan...for the first five picks or so.  Because the depth was such that anyone could have gone anywhere, the draft rankings meant little in the grand scheme of things.

The complete first round:

1. Florida-Aaron Ekblad, D, Barrie (OHL)
2. Buffalo-Sam Reinhart, C, Kootenay (WHL)
3. Edmonton-Leon Draisaitl, C, Prince Albert (WHL)
4. Calgary-Sam Bennett, C, Kingston (OHL)
5. NY Islanders-Michael Dal Colle, LW, Oshawa (OHL)
6. Vancouver-Jake Virtanen, RW, Calgary (WHL)
7. Carolina-Haydn Fleury, D, Red Deer (WHL)
8. Toronto-William Nylander, C/RW, Modo (Sweden)
9. Winnipeg-Nikolaj Ehlers, LW, Halifax (QMJHL)
10. Anaheim (from Ottawa)-Nick Ritchie, LW, Peterborough (OHL)
11. Nashville-Kevin Fiala, LW, HV 71 Jr. (Sweden)
12. Arizona-Brendan Perlini, LW, Niagara (OHL)
13. Washington-Jakub Vrana, LW/RW, Linkoping (Sweden)
14. Dallas-Julius Honka, D, Swift Current (WHL)
15. Detroit-Dylan Larkin, C, US NTDP (USHL)
16. Columbus-Sonny Milano, LW, US NTDP (USHL)
17. Philadelphia-Travis Sanheim, D, Calgary (WHL)
18. Minnesota-Alex Tuch, RW, US NTDP (USHL)
19. Tampa Bay-Anthony Deangelo, D, Sarnia (OHL)
20. Chicago (from San Jose)-Nick Schmaltz, C, Green Bay (USHL)
21. St. Louis-Robby Fabbri, C, Guelph (OHL)
22. Pittsburgh-Kasperi Kapanen, RW, Kalpa (Finland)
23. Colorado-Connor Bleakley, C, Red Deer (WHL)
24. Vancouver (from Anaheim)-Jared McCann, C, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)
25. Boston-David Pastrnak, RW, Sodertalje (Sweden)
26. Montreal-Nikita Scherbak, RW, Saskatoon (WHL)
27. San Jose (from Chicago)-Nikolay Goldobin, RW, Sarnia (OHL)
28. NY Islanders (from Tampa Bay via NY Rangers)-Joshua Ho-Sang, C/RW, Windsor (OHL)
29. Los Angeles-Adrian Kempe, LW, Modo (Sweden)
30. New Jersey-John Quennville, C, Brandon (WHL)

The OHL led the way with ten players picked in the first round, with Sarnia being the only team in the league to have two players go in the first round.  The WHL was not far behind, with nine players, all of them coming from the Eastern Conference, and none of them coming from the WHL champion Edmonton Oil Kings.  Red Deer and Calgary accounted for two each.  This is the second straight year that a goaltender was not taken in the first round.  The QMJHL had just one player go in the first round this year (Nikolaj Ehlers).

Aaron Ekblad is the first defenseman to be taken first overall since Erik Johnson in 2006 and is also the first Canadian defenseman taken in that spot since Chris Phillips in 1996.  Leon Draisaitl is the highest German-trained player taken, but not the highest German-born (Dany Heatley went second overall in 2000 and was born in Germany).

NHL Draft

With the NHL Draft less than a month away, there are still some things to figure out, such as the Stanley Cup winner and the trophy presentation.  However, there are also 28 other teams that are now attempting to figure out how to shape their futures.  So, for future reference, I will put the draft order for the first round, as well as the first picks for teams who don't have a first round pick.

1. Florida Panthers
2. Buffalo Sabres
3. Edmonton Oilers
4. Calgary Flames
5. New York Islanders
6. Vancouver Canucks
7. Carolina Hurricanes
8. Toronto Maple Leafs
9. Winnipeg Jets
10. Anaheim Ducks (from Ottawa)
11. Nashville Predators
12. Arizona Coyotes
13. Washington Capitals
14. Dallas Stars
15. Detroit Red Wings
16. Columbus Blue Jackets
17. Philadelphia Flyers
18. Minnesota Wild
19. Tampa Bay Lightning
20. San Jose Sharks
21. St. Louis Blues
22. Pittsburgh Penguins
23. Colorado Avalanche
24. Anaheim Ducks
25. Boston Bruins
26. Montreal Canadiens
27. Chicago Blackhawks
28-29. Los Angeles Kings/Tampa Bay Lightning (from NY Rangers) (order will be determined after Finals)
30. New Jersey Devils

The Rangers lost their first round pick this year in the Martin St. Louis trade when the Rangers made the Conference Finals while the Senators surrendered their pick in the Bobby Ryan trade last off-season.  Both teams have a second round pick.