2021 NHL Draft: Needs and mock draft, part 2

 

A quarter of the way through, and this time around, I look at the other teams to not make the playoffs. Keep in mind this is done in order of draft position before factoring in trades and in Arizona's case, forfeiture of pick.

9. Vancouver Canucks 

The year did not go as planned, and a suspect blue line and regression from key players were to blame. Through the draft, they should aim to get another defenseman, as Olli Juolevi is still no sure thing, and Quinn Hughes is a liability in his own end. As for free agency, if Jim Benning can refrain from signing anyone on the first day, that would be great. 

Projected pick: Carson Lambos, D, JYP Jr.

A top 10 potential pick prior to this season, his stock took a bit of a hit thanks to a rough adjustment to Finnish league hockey and a surgical procedure just two games into his WHL season. Before that, he was a willing defender who can jump into the play.

10. Ottawa Senators

Youth is the order of the day, and in both the pipeline and on the parent team, that is in spades for Ottawa. Goalie is still an issue, but there is no obvious prospect available here, so they could go for best available regardless of position. 

Projected pick: Kent Johnson, C, Michigan

Offensive talent who is likely to spend another year in college, the Senators can afford to let Johnson develop other aspects of his game, as well as get rid of some bad habits. 

NS. Arizona Coyotes 

This is where things get dicey, as the Coyotes do not own a first round pick this year, as they forfeited it due to pre-draft violations. They do not draft until pick 37, which they got in a trade with Columbus, and is one of two picks in the round for them. As for what they need, higher end talent is the simplest answer, as there's no one truly ready to make a jump. Long answer is defense, as they are one of the older teams in that regard and have holes to fill in terms of depth for next season. Losing out on the first four rounds last year hurts, as it further hampers their development. 

First projected pick: Logan Mailloux, D, Lejon

11. Chicago Blackhawks 

Lack of blue line depth and scoring undid the Blackhawks last season. They do figure to get Jonathan Toews back next season, which helps up front, but they desperately need to continue to think about keeping the blue line prospect pool filled, especially with Duncan Keith now traded away. Getting another scoring winger would be nice, as well.

Projected pick: Brennan Othman, LW, Olten

12. Calgary Flames 

A team that should consider overhauling its core, one of the first areas to address is blue line. There's no sure thing in the line, and their current group is either up there in age or not ready for top minutes. Factor in the team's poor first round record since their Stanley Cup win in 1989, and you get why the Flames need to reconfigure their system.

Projected pick: Corson Ceulemans, D, Brooks

13. Philadelphia Flyers 

On paper, this is a team with everything now and in the future. However, consistency is something that cannot be figured on paper, and that is where the Flyers fail. Their main issue last season? Goaltending. It took a major step back, and now, we wonder if Carter Hart is the answer next season. One thing is certain, and that he will likely have a new backup goalie. If there is a spot where they truly lack, it's down the middle.

Projected pick: Cole Sillinger, C, Sioux Falls (USHL)

14. Dallas Stars 

A team with a middling prospect pool, this year is where they could get some solid players through the draft without needing to rush anyone. Scoring depth could be a possibility, with Chaz Lucius still here. They could address blue line depth in the later rounds.

Projected pick: Chaz Lucius, C, US NTDP

15. New York Rangers

The Rangers are loaded everywhere but down the middle and need someone to be hard to play against. The most logical pick at this point would be Zach L'Heureux, who is difficult to get the puck from once he has it and is competitive. 

Projected pick: Zach L'Heureux, C, Halifax (QMJHL)

NHL Mock Draft: picks 16-23

The NHL entry draft is officially one week away, and now, the final order is set, thanks to St. Louis winning the Stanley Cup. Though they won't have a first round pick, thanks to surrendering it to Buffalo in the Ryan O'Reilly trade, it does go to show that drafting wisely can reap its rewards, as Robert Thomas was a key contributor on the Cup-winning team.

16. Colorado Avalanche-Alex Turcotte, C, US NTDP (USHL)

This is another opportunity for the Avs to load up on forwards, and while Turcotte has had injury issues, he does boast some high-end talent. Where he ends up is unknown, since he played on the second line behind Jack Hughes, but putting up nearly two points a game is worth considering.

17. Vegas Golden Knights-Moritz Seider, D, Mannheim (Germany)

The only team to not have had a homegrown rookie on their NHL roster thus far, the Golden Knights are likely to continue that trend unless Cody Glass makes the roster. As it is, their blue line could use some refreshing, and they go with a physical specimen that could stand to benefit from better competition, but has the size and potential to one day succeed Deryk Engelland as the stay-at home type.

18. Dallas Stars-Egor Afanasyev, RW, Muskegon (USHL)

The lack of scoring depth was ultimately the Stars' undoing, and there isn't likely an immediate option to help that outside of free agency. Afanasyev has the tools to be a scoring power forward, but does need refinement, something that will happen in Windsor of the OHL next season.

19. Ottawa Senators (from Columbus)-Ryan Suzuki, C, Barrie (OHL)

A playmaker whose stock took a hit due to Barrie being in rebuilding mode, Suzuki is more of a playmaker at this point, but given the Senators' woeful center depth, combined with needing the help within a year or two, at the latest, Suzuki goes here instead of Alex Newhook.

20. New York Rangers (from Winnipeg)-Ville Heinola, D, Lukko (Finland)

Heinola has a similar skill set to Miro Heiskanen, but with less in the skating department at the moment. Given that the Rangers are fairly loaded with forward depth, it is possible that they choose to address defense here.

21. Pittsburgh Penguins-Ryan Johnson, D, Sioux Falls (USHL)

The Penguins need a puck mover in their system, as Kris Letang is not getting any younger, and his ability in his own end is eroding along with the rest of the team getting slower. Johnson will have time to develop and gain some weight, but his ability to start the offense from his own end is already pro-level.

22. Los Angeles Kings (from Toronto)-Alex Newhook, C, Victoria (BCHL)

Smart, two-way player that has quibbles with level of competition, Newhook is seen as a Tyson Jost clone, in that he has the ability to lead a team one day, but will need time to develop, something he can do at Boston College.

23. New York Islanders-Samuel Poulin, LW, Sherbrooke (QMJHL)

The Islanders are loaded just about everywhere in the pipeline, but they do lack a big body that can at worst, play on the third line right away. Poulin is the prototypical power forward that the team lacks, and given the Isles just re-signed both Brock Nelson and Jordan Eberle, they can take some time here and possibly just go with the best player available to them.

2019 NHL mock draft: picks 1-8

The NHL entry draft is less than two weeks away, and the draft order is almost set, as the final game that will be played on Wednesday will determine the last two spots. As is the tradition of this blog, I will take a shot at who will be taking who. Today, it is picks 1-8.

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

The Devils need offense in a bad way, and that fact was further exposed when Taylor Hall missed significant amount of time this season. The middle Hughes brother (Quinn is a defenseman in the Vancouver Canucks system and Luke is eligible in 2021) reminds many of Patrick Kane when he came out in his draft year, and if Hughes is anything close to his potential, the Devils will be happy to take it.

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

The other top candidate to go first overall, Kakko is a great consolation prize for a Rangers team that needs a flagship player that the team can sell their fans on in their rebuilding phase. While he's purely a winger, Kakko does just about everything well and has come up big in the clutch, scoring the gold-medal winner at the WJCs this year.

3. Chicago Blackhawks-Dylan Cozens, C, Lethbridge (WHL)

The Blackhawks would prefer a winger, but Cozens would be a great pickup here, as he has the size to be a power forward and the skill to eventually be a top line talent. It's uncertain where Dylan Strome's ceiling truly is, so picking Cozens makes sense in hedging their bets here.

4. Colorado Avalanche-Vasili Podkolzin, RW, SKA-Neva (Russia)

The Avalanche missed out on elite talent thanks to a few bounces of the ping pong balls, but they still get to draft a great talent here. Between Kirby Dach and Podkolzin, the Avs are getting a great talent to fill their forward depth. Given their depth in the pipeline that needs to come through, the Avs can afford to let Podkolzin develop, and when he is ready, they can be getting a Brad Marchand clone that plays more in control of his emotions.

5. Los Angeles Kings-Bowen Byram, D, Vancouver (WHL)

Without any real room for anything other than an immediate game changer, the Kings will need to play a little bit of a long game, and where the team has needs in the long-term is on the blue line. Byram is more of an offensive defenseman at this point in his development, but that is a spot where the Kings will need help down the line on the back end, especially since Jarret Anderson-Dolan and possibly Rasmus Kupari could crack the lineup up front within a year or two and there just simply isn't any cap room with eight players in their 30's on big deals and only Ilya Kovalchuk and Dion Phaneuf will have their deals expire in two years, which is the earliest that cap relief can come outside of a buyout.

6. Detroit Red Wings-Kirby Dach, C, Saskatoon (WHL)

The Red Wings still need an elite defender, but that isn't available in the draft this year. The good news is that the Wings still need help up front, and Dach will help out here. He may need a year or two in Saskatoon, but with Filip Zadina and possibly Joe Veleno being favorites to make the NHL next season, the wait may be a blessing for a team that simply needs all the help they can get, especially since they can be rid of Jonathan Ericsson's contract after next season.

7. Buffalo Sabres-Cole Caufield, RW, US NTDP (USHL)

Depth on the wings is terrible with the Sabres, and that has a trickle down effect on an offense that if it ever matched the potential of the unit on hand, would have not had this problem. As it is, potential still must turn into actual production, and only Jack Eichel has shown that of the forwards developed by the team. Caufield would be helpful as a second line winger with either Casey Mittelstadt or Sam Reinhart right now.

8. Edmonton Oilers-Victor Soderstom, D, Brynas (Sweden)

There's so many things the Oilers need, but with Oscar Klefbom and Darnell Nurse needing pay raises and so little cap room, the Oilers desperately need to fill that hole in case they lose either or both. Soderstom would be a year away, but he would provide a puck moving defender that the team lacks in the system.

The Luck of the Draft Draw

Yesterday, the NHL teams that didn't make the playoffs, and the Colorado Avalanche learned where they will be picking in the upcoming NHL Draft. The results are in, and for the second time in three seasons, the New Jersey Devils will be picking first overall. Their only other time picking first overall was in 2017, when they picked Nico Hischier. They are a team that desperately needs high-end talent to supplement Taylor Hall, and given that the Devils were nothing when Hall went down midway through the season, either Jack Hughes or Kaapo Kakko will look really good in a Devils uniform. The second overall pick will go to the New York Rangers, who are in the midst of a rebuild. Like the Devils, they also need a high-end talent to spearhead their youth movement, particularly to supplement an emerging Mika Zibanejad. Chicago also made a leap up the draft boards, as they will be drafting third overall. The last time they were in that spot was 2006, when they took some guy named Jonathan Toews. Assuming Kakko and Hughes are off the board, that leaves a couple of WHL guys in Dylan Cozens of Lethbridge and Kirby Dach of Saskatoon. In recent years, the Blackhawks have rebuilt their defensive pipeline, though its rewards won't be reaped by the time both Duncan Keith and Brent Seabrook hit rock bottom. Where does that leave the Colorado Avalanche? Well, the pick they got in the Matt Duchene trade from Ottawa is now the fourth overall pick. That might be a sigh of relief for Ottawa, but given that the Avs have not only a deep prospect pool right now, but they can also add to that with both the fourth overall pick and possibly the 16th overall pick if they don't make the Conference Finals this year. Let's also not forget that the Avs were drafting fourth a couple years ago, and they took Cale Makar, who figures to be a future stud on thee blue line and will likely be making his NHL debut when the Avs start the playoffs.

Half-eaten Big Apple

NEW YORK RANGERS

2017-18 record: 34-39-9 (77 points)
Missed the playoffs
Captain: TBA

The New York Rangers saw their season tumble like a stack of bricks and to their credit, decided to go through a full-scale rebuild. Well, whatever they were allowed, because Henrik Lundqvist is still here, and his contract isn't going anywhere. Many of the key players are gone and they're beginning with a new head coach whose credentials were mostly in college, albeit with a prestigious program in Boston University. There will be pain for the Rangers, one that they hope will reap rewards in a few years.

Up front, the days of Rick Nash leading the offense ended when he was traded at the deadline last season. Now, it is Mats Zuccarello, Chris Kreider, and Mika Zibanejad leading the way up front. That raises plenty of questions, as only Zuccarello can be considered a consistent performer while Kreider is coming off of serious health issues that hampered his previous two years. Beyond them, they're praying that Lias Andersson and Filip Chytil crack the roster after having a year of professional experience with the AHL team in Hartford and they're hoping both Jimmy Vesey and Pavel Buchnevich benefit from a change in coaching system. On the blue line, Brady Skjei is now the team's best player after Ryan McDonagh's trade last season. As with the forwards, there are question marks here, too. Can Kevin Shattenkirk stay healthy? What does Marc Staal have left? Will Brendan Smith do well enough to not be buried in the AHL? Goaltending also has question marks, as Henrik Lundqvist isn't getting any younger, and unfortunately for the Rangers, he's slowly losing his ability to steal games for the Rangers. It didn't help that last year's backup Ondrej Pavelec was like pouring gasoline onto a fire. Alexander Georgiev is the leading candidate to back up Lundqvist, as he managed to be somewhat competent in his trial run last year. Mostly, this Rangers iteration will likely have a few rookies crack the roster, so losing will be happening a lot.

Prediction: 8th in the Metropolitan Division

Last year's Rangers started the season as one of the oldest teams in the league and were coached by a stubborn Alain Vigneault whose ways wear thin after a while, so last season was right on cue in terms of the team needing something new. David Quinn will be learning on the job, and he will likely throw a fair number of rookies into the mix, thus forging a group that will succeed and fail together. Exactly how this will affect the Rangers long term is up for debate, but expect immediate pain.

NHL mock Draft: picks 24-31

There is big news involving a three way trade that I will get to at some point, as it relates to the clown show known as the Ottawa Senators and the potential impact it may have on its star player. In the meantime, I need to finish this mock draft, which is likely going to be wrong save for maybe the first three picks.

24. Minnesota Wild-Ty Dellandrea, C, Flint (OHL)

The Wild's center spot is getting older and the surest things in the system haven't proven themselves yet, as Joel Eriksson-Ek hasn't been the player they Wild envisioned yet and Luke Kunin has injury issues. Dellandrea already has shown character, playing on a Flint team that had been in turmoil early in his time there, and he has skill that may only be in the beginning stages.

25. Toronto Maple Leafs-Sampo Ranta, LW, Sioux City (USHL)

The Maple Leafs may look to trade out of this spot, given their wealth of prospects. Should they stay, left wing may almost certainly need an infusion, and with the number of prospects, they can afford to take on a project in Ranta, a goal scorer who will likely need two years minimum at Wisconsin.

26. New York Rangers (from Boston)-Martin Kaut, RW, Pardubice (Czech Republic)

The deadline trades strengthened the Rangers' blue line prospect pool, and center looks set if Lias Andersson and Filip Chytil both make the NHL roster next season. The Rangers may look to trade up, since they have another pick at 28. Kaut might be the safest pick, as he doesn't truly excel in one category, but does everything fairly well.

27. Chicago Blackhawks (from Nashville)-Mattias Samuelsson, D, US NTDP

The Blackhawks need defensemen badly. With the scoring need addressed earlier in this mock draft, they get a physical player in Samuelsson, who shows better offensive acumen than his father Kjell, who played in the NHL in the late-80's and early 90's.

28. New York Rangers (from Tampa Bay)-Filip Johansson, D, Leskand Jr. (Sweden)

The Rangers could always use another player on the blue line, especially since there is uncertainty as to who will emerge. Johansson is an all-around player that may have more offense than what he's shown thus far.

29. St. Louis Blues (from Winnipeg)-Ryan McLeod, C, Mississauga (OHL)

The Blues need to close the gap between the first and third lines. With the possibility of either Tage Thompson or Robert Thomas getting regular NHL time next season, that means the Blues need another center to groom. McLeod needs to be more than just a speed guy, but he will have time to develop.

30. Detroit Red Wings (from Vegas)-Jacob Olofsson, C, Timra (Sweden)

The Red Wings need any help they can get, and though it is unknown what Olofsson's offensive upside is, his two-way game already would put him in position to join the NHL next season if he chooses.

31. Washington Capitals-Nicolas Beaudin, D, Drummondville (QMJHL)

The Capitals need to continue to stock the defenseman pipeline, with Madison Bowey already graduating to the NHL and Lucas Johansen potentially close. Beaudin needs to gain weight, but the rest of his game suggests that he can be a quality defender on an NHL roster.

NHL mock Draft: Picks 9-15

Continuing on to the NHL mock Draft, and picks 9-15, I'll try to get in the selections with the World Cup going on.

9. New York Rangers-Brady Tkachuk, C/RW, Boston University (Hockey East)

The Rangers have three picks in the first round, and they can afford to wait until later to pick a defenseman. They can also trade up if they need to. Should they think Tkachuk could come off the board earlier and they want him, a trade up is possible. Then again, a defenseman heavy draft could very lead to Tkachuk falling if the Rangers decide to stay put. Tkachuk is almost like his dad and older brother. In other words, a power forward that can make life miserable for the opposing players.

10. Edmonton Oilers-Rasmus Sandin, D, Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)

The Oilers are in a precarious spot with the salary cap, and there is word that they may be moving the pick along with a hefty contract. Should they stay, Sandin provides the most offensive upside of the defenders remaining. He also happens to be fairly proficient in his own end, something that was evident when paired with fellow Draft-eligible defenseman Adam Boqvist.

11. New York Islanders-Joe Veleno, C, Drummondville (QMJHL)

A playmaker who has immense talent, Veleno showed most of what he can do after a mid-season trade to Drummondville. Already a champion with Saint John in 2017, his talent level can be even higher, and with John Tavares likely a goner, he can step in as a top center once he makes the NHL.

12. New York Islanders (from Calgary)-Ty Smith, D, Spokane (WHL)

The Islanders were terrible in their own end last year, and Smith is the best defensive defenseman available in the Draft after Dahlin. He may not provide much offense, but the Islanders aren't exactly hurting in that category.

13. Dallas Stars-Isac Lundestrom, C, Lulea (Sweden)

The Stars may wish to address their center depth soon, as Martin Hanzal is better suited for third line duty and Jason Spezza is seeing a pretty steep decline in skill. Lundestrom may not be flashy, but he does a lot of things well and his skill set reminds some of current Nashville center Calle Jarnkrok, who can play a complete 200-foot game.

14. Philadelphia Flyers (from St. Louis)-Jesperi Kotkaniemi, C, Assat (Finland)

The Flyers may need to force feed a few of their current prospects into the NHL roster soon, which of course means that it's a good idea to stock up on prospects with a high ceiling. Kotkaniemi may be seen as a late bloomer, but he has great potential offensively and is continuing to work on being better in the areas he needs to improve upon (i.e. skating).

15. Florida Panthers-Bode Wilde, D, US NTDP

Hockey sense is a question mark for Wilde, but everything else checks out. Florida needs defensemen badly, and Wilde has potential if he can improve his hockey sense.

The Coaching Carousel Goes On...

In the midst of the NHL playoffs that is currently going on, there are a few teams that are either looking for new head coaches or may very well be looking for one soon. Let's look at the teams that are looking and teams that could be or should be looking for new bench bosses.

• The New York Rangers were the first team to swing the ax on their head coach, as Alain Vigneault was shown the door the day after the Rangers' season ended. With what may very well be a youthful core combined with Henrik Lundqvist and rumors of the Rangers being front-runners for Ilya Kovalchuk, it's imperative that the Rangers get their coach right. Of course, they are also playing in New York City, so thick skin is a must.
• The Dallas Stars are looking, too, after Ken Hitchcock decided to hang it up and move on in a different role with the team. Word is that the Stars may be looking at Barry Trotz, as the Stars still need to improve their defense.
• Speaking of Trotz, he's on the hot seat and needs to get the Washington Capitals on a deep playoff run. Currently, it's not looking good, as the Capitals are down 2-0 in the series. If I were the Capitals, a new General Manager may also be one to look at, as Brian McClellan put the Capitals on the brink of Salary Cap Hell. TJ Oshie on an 8-year deal beginning with his age 30 season? And why wasn't Brooks Orpik cut before the season? It could have saved them the trouble of trading Marcus Johanssen.
• The Carolina Hurricanes are already looking for a new General Manager, as Ron Francis had been fired via promotion. That means Bill Peters is likely looking over his shoulder, as he could be canned if the new guy decides to go a different direction. A risk-taker is likely in the cards for both spots.

Among the teams that were thought to be looking for new head coaches, but declared themselves safe for the time being include Chicago, Detroit, Montreal, Ottawa, and St. Louis. Chicago at least, deserves another year, as their championship run was fairly recent, but another season of anything less than the second round may be spelling the end of their regime. Their biggest fatal flaw has been unable to develop a quality goaltender since Corey Crawford came forward in 2010. Detroit is headed for years of mediocrity, as Ken Holland will still be General Manager for at least two more years while Jeff Blashill will remain coach. I would have canned Blashill, at the very least, as he's been shown to be in over his head on the NHL level. Guy Boucher is still coaching Ottawa for reasons unknown, as he lost the team midway through the season. He, along with Pierre Dorion, should have been given their walking papers. Doug Armstrong and Mike Yeo are still in St. Louis, and both deserve another year, provided that they identify a future starting goaltender and having a permanent AHL affiliation will help development, something that caused problems this season, as they were the odd team out this season. Montreal's never ending saga will continue, as Marc Bergevin and Claude Julien will remain in their roles. Be prepared for more misery, Montreal.

Reaching the Deadline

With the NHL Trade Deadline approaching, teams are already making moves, and many of them made this season are already more impactful than last season's deadline, when very little happened in the way of blockbuster deals. Let's look at the deals made over the weekend and other potential players getting moved.

• The Pittsburgh Penguins announced that they were all in for a shot at a third Stanley Cup in a row when they were part of a three way trade. The basis of the trade is that they get Derick Brassard from Ottawa, Ottawa gets Ian Cole (more on him later) and Filip Gustavsson, and Vegas gets Ryan Reaves, with draft picks also being part of the equation. For Ottawa, they have signaled a rebuild, with the future of Erik Karlsson being an uncertainty past next season. Vegas gets fighter in Reaves who can also score on occasion while Pittsburgh gets the third line center that they had lacked since Nick Bonino defected to Nashville in the off-season.
• Remember Ian Cole? The Senators didn't hang on to him for long, as he was sent to Columbus for Nick Moutrey and a 2020 draft pick. Columbus gets more depth on the blue line, and they would later address the center depth, as in another three way deal, Nashville traded Pontus Aberg to Edmonton for Mark Letestu, and then flipped Letestu for a fourth round pick. Aberg gets a fresh start in Edmonton after he was squeezed out due to forward depth, which gets better with Mike Fisher coming back as of today.
• The New York Rangers are building for the future, sending Michael Grabner to New Jersey for Egor Rykov and a draft pick. Their biggest trade happened a few days later, as they sent Rick Nash to Boston. Ryan Spooner, Ryan Lindgren, Matt Beleskey, and a first round pick this year plus another draft pick were what they got in return. This was the trade the Rangers desperately needed, as Spooner can slot in as a top six forward while Lindgren is a solid prospect. The only hiccup, a necessary one to keep order in the salary cap, is Beleskey's albatross contract.
• Tomas Plekanec is leaving the only team he had ever known...and is heading to their biggest rival. That's right, he is going from Montreal to Toronto. All it cost was Kerby Rychel, Rinat Valiev, and Kyle Baun.
• Evander Kane, Alex Burrows, and Johnny Oduya are names that were either told to wait for trades or were placed on waivers, indicating that they could be on the move by the time the deadline passes in a few hours.

This year's trade deadline has been far busier than last year, when the only big name to get moved was Martin Hanzal. There will be at least a few moves made, many of them minor, but the ticker watching will happen.

Options for the Predators at the deadline

Currently at the top of the Western Conference heap, the Nashville Predators find themselves in this position for the first time since the 2014-15 season, where they would ultimately fall off a little and succumb to the Chicago Blackhawks in the first round that season. In that season, the Preds made trades for both Cody Franson and Mike Santorelli to add secondary pieces for a playoff run. This year, the Preds are in the same spot and are pondering a move or two to build for a deep run. So, what are the options for the Preds?

• They are already deep down the middle, and now they will soon get Mike Fisher out of retirement. That addition means either Calle Jarnkrok or Colton Sissons will be moved to the wing.
• That move brings about the major question that the Predators are trying to solve. Option one is Rick Nash. His contract expires after the season, and he could come at a price. The Rangers may be asking for draft picks and/or a defensive prospect. Michael Grabner is also an option from the Rangers, and he may come cheaper, which may be appetizing for the Preds.
• Evander Kane comes with as many questions as he does answers. Off-ice issues are his biggest problems, but he also comes with 30-goal potential that he has fulfilled a couple of seasons. A big plus is that the Predators have the leadership in place that could keep Kane on the straight and narrow for the season.
• The Detroit Red Wings may look to move Gustav Nyquist or Tomas Tatar. The price may be higher, since the Wings may look to poach a prospect like Dante Fabbro as a means to give up either winger.
• The Montreal Canadiens are considering trading Max Pacioretty. His contract could be an issue, as would the asking price. Given their depth on the blue line, an NHL-ready player could be in play in addition to picks and possibly a prospect.
• Sign Eeli Tolvanen after his KHL season ends. He's already showing his scoring chops in both the KHL and the Olympic stage. He does have an option for a second year in the KHL, but the Preds may look to sign him once he has the ability to become available.

Nashville has many ways to go, and much of it depends on what they feel. Their faith in signing Tolvanen in time for the playoffs may be the biggest factor in everything they do as far as a trade. The cap doesn't figure to be a major issue, and with only Scott Hartnell and Alexei Emelin currently as the only UFAs after the season, their window should be open.

Reloading Blueshirts

NEW YORK RANGERS

2016-17 record: 48-28-6 (102 points)
Lost tp Ottawa in Conference semi-finals
Captain: Ryan McDonagh

The New York Rangers actually had a decent season. However, because they play in the tough Metropolitan Division, they ended up taking one of the Wild Card spots, where they proceeded to make the Conference semi-finals. The path the playoffs for the Rangers once again figures to be through the wild card, as each of the teams in front of them are still at the very least, as good as them, if not better. This time around, they will have one more year of experience for the rookies of yesteryear, as well as a little more pressure to succeed.

Offensively, the Rangers came out like gangbusters, which largely explains their fourth place finish in that category. However, the scoring was spread around pretty well, as the four leading scorers had over 50 points, but none reached 60. They will be minus one of them, Derek Stepan, as he was traded to Arizona, but they pin their hopes on a healthy Mika Zibanejad, who showed his potential in the playoffs. Defensively, they should be better, but the lack of offense from that unit was staggering, as Nick Holden led the team in goals by defensemen. To that end, that was why they sought out Kevin Shattenkirk to help in that part. A player to watch here is Anthony DeAngelo, acquired in the Arizona trade, and whether or not he can crack the lineup at some point in the season. If he does, that would help the team's offense from the blue line. As for their defensive issues, it would help that Henrik Lundqvist returns to his form, as he missed time to injuries, and his play was affected by inconsistency and a shorter break prior to last season. He won't have Antti Raanta looking over his shoulder, so he should feel less pressure to succeed in that regard. This time around, Ondrej Pavelec will be the backup, and he has something to prove after spending most of last season in the AHL. The power play was good, but had room to grow, and Shattenkirk should be a factor here, while the penalty kill wasn't great.

Prediction: 4th in the Metropolitan Division

It's not often that a team that had over 100 points in a season can be thought of as a dark horse, but the Rangers are in that position thanks to a division that features many heavy hitters. They have the talent to make some noise in the playoffs, but do they have enough to make the Finals?

NHL Mock Draft: Picks 16-31

With Adidas revealing all 31 teams' new (sort of, for some teams) uniforms, I'm expediting the mock draft.

16-Calgary Flames: Kailer Yamamoto, RW, Spokane (WHL)

The Flames have had success with players like Yamamoto, as they have his contemporary height-wise in Johnny Gaudreau. Super skilled offensively, and Sam Bennett still needs wingers that can score.

17-Toronto Maple Leafs: Cal Foote, D, Kelowna (WHL)

Toronto could always use another defensive prospect, as they remain thin at that unit, a fact exposed by their third pairing of Matt Hunwick and Roman Polak getting repeatedly torched. Foote isn't a game-breaker, but he is reliable in his own end and has a little more offensive than his dad Adam, a former Colorado defender.

18-Boston Bruins: Nic Hague, D, Mississauga (OHL)

The Bruins have tried preparing for the eventuality of Zdeno Chara finally hanging it up, and though Charlie McAvoy, last year's first round pick, looks like a sure thing, the first round pick from 2015 Jakub Zboril is not as certain to be great. Hague has the size and may provide solid two-way play to go along with McAvoy's offensive prowess and Brandon Carlo's stay-at-home abilities.

19-San Jose Sharks: Pierre-Olivier Joseph, D, Charlottetown (QMJHL)

The Sharks need young defenders in the pipeline, especially since they just gave up on Mirco Mueller living up to his potential. Joseph is a puck mover that needs to gain weight, but is checking off the boxes in most other areas.

20-St. Louis Blues: Klim Kostin, RW, Dynamo Moscow (KHL)

St, Louis got pushed around a lot last year, and despite an off-year thanks to injuries and a lack of playing time in the KHL, Kostin showed what he could do when given the time to show. Provides a physical element that was missing last year.

21-New York Rangers: Erik Brannstrom, D, HV71 (Sweden)

The Rangers are getting old on the blue line, and though they just parted ways with Dan Girardi, they still have decent ability there. The future doesn't look too bright beyond that, and Brannstrom would not only be a body on the blue line, but also a puck mover that they haven't had in a while.

22-Edmonton Oilers: Robert Thomas, C, London (OHL)

Though listed as a center Thomas can play anywhere up front, and he's likely the safest pick in the first round. The Oilers would like to have better depth up front, especially when it comes to the third and fourth lines, and Thomas can bring a two-way game to those areas right away if needed.

23-Arizona Coyotes (from Minnesota): Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, G, HPK Jr. (Finland)

I fully expect the Coyotes to take a goaltender either here or with their second round pick. Presuming they do like what they see in that category, it's down to Luukkonen or Jake Oettinger. Luukkonen has the higher upside, and I think he's a little closer to NHL ready.

24-Columbus Blue Jackets: Kole Lind, RW, Kelowna (WHL)

The Blue Jackets are sound defensively, but they didn't have nearly enough firepower to go toe-to-toe with Pittsburgh in the first round. Sadly, this year's draft doesn't have much in the way of offensive talent, but Lind is one of the better options available. Plus, going down the wing, the Blue Jackets could use another guy there.

25-Montreal Canadiens: Urho Vaakanainen, D, JYP (Finland)

The Canadiens just traded away Mikhail Sergachev, leaving their defensive pipeline a little less stocked. Reliability is what he will provide, but he may require a few years to develop his hockey sense a little more.

26-Chicago Blackhawks: Isaac Ratcliffe, LW, Guelph (OHL)

A project, Ratcliffe has the size that Chicago desperately needs, as they've been lacking in that lately and were pushed around by St. Louis and Nashville in recent playoff tilts, teams with at least one physical presence. He can provide a little offense, but once he gets a little more weight, his size will be his greatest asset.

27-St. Louis Blues (from Washington): Jaret Anderson-Dolan, C, Spokane (WHL)

Anderson-Dolan rose up the draft board thanks to his tournament play in the World Under-18s, and he is just now scratching the surface of his potential. With Dan Lambert now coaching Spokane, it will be interesting to see how much offense he can really provide.

28-Ottawa Senators: Jason Robertson, RW, Kingston (OHL)

Robertson could afford to improve his skating, which seems to be a theme with most draft picks this year, but if any team knows about offensive talent that needs improved skating, it's Ottawa, as Robertson draws comparisons to Mark Stone, who's done pretty well in Ottawa. Work ethic is something to watch, but the offensive skill is there.

29-Dallas Stars (from Anaheim): Kristian Vesalainen, LW, Frolunda (Sweden)

The offensive upside is there with Vesalainen, but he also had an up and down season, as he moved quite a bit. Size suggests power forward, but he may be a few years away.

30-Nashville Predators: Ryan Poehling, C, St. Cloud State (NCHC)

Assuming the Predators don't trade this pick in pursuit of a center like Matt Duchene or Tyler Johnson, the Predators go with the draft route, taking Poehling, who could end up a Mike Fisher clone, as in not great offensively, but very good in many areas, and can play a shutdown role if needed.

31-Pittsburgh Penguins: Timothy Liljegren, D, Rogle (Sweden)

Liljegren's stock took a tumble, and with Pittsburgh needing to figure out a plan in case they don't keep Justin Schultz and/or Derrick Pouliot doesn't pan out, Liljegren would fit the Penguins system perfectly, as his offense is way ahead of his defensive game.

NHL Conference Semi-Finals Preview

EASTERN CONFERENCE

(1) Washington Capitals vs. (2) Pittsburgh Penguins

The Capitals had all they could handle in a six-game series with Toronto, but in the end, they did manage to pull through. They did so despite Alex Ovechkin providing just three points (all goals). Having a balanced attack that includes TJ Oshie, Niklas Backstrom, and Justin Williams should help offset Ovechkin's struggles, particularly as he is shaking off an injury scare in the last game of the Leafs series. Braden Holtby continues to hold down the for the Capitals.

Pittsburgh had a relatively easy time with the Blue Jackets en route to a five-game series win. In spite of having to go to Marc-Andre Fleury thanks to Matt Murray being injured, the Penguins have shown some resilience, particularly since Kris Letang is out for the playoffs. It helps that their big guns (Evgeni Malkin, Phil Kessel, and Sidney Crosby) all produced in the series.

Prediction: Penguins in 7

(2) Ottawa Senators vs. (4) New York Rangers

The Senators went to overtime in virtually every game of their series against Boston. Like Pittsburgh, they had their share of adversity, and like Pittsburgh, their big name players came up big when it counted the most. Erik Karlsson is still the engine that gets the offense going, and having Bobby Ryan finally show why the Senators traded for him a few years ago have been big factors. Craig Anderson has played well, but it's been Clarke MacArthur that has truly come up clutch after missing most of the season because of concussions.

The Rangers have ridden their defense to a six-game victory over Montreal. Henrik Lundqvist still has a few great games left in him, and the defense in front of him tightened up when it counted the most. Offensively, they may wish to ramp things up a little, as Mika Zibanejad led the team with four points. That means the likes of Rick Nash and Mats Zuccarello need to pick things up a little.

Prediction: Senators in 6

WESTERN CONFERENCE

(1) Anaheim Ducks vs. (2) Edmonton Oilers

The Ducks had little difficulty in disposing of the Flames in a sweep. Their offense was well-balanced, with Shea Theodore emerging as a new option on the blue line. Getting Corey Perry to produce a little more would help, but with everyone bunched into the 3-5 point range, it could also be beneficial in keeping the pressure off of Perry to perform. In goal, John Gibson was healthy, but also rather shaky, as he was pulled from a start in the series. Goaltending bears watching here.

The Oilers are going to go as far as Connor McDavid and Cam Talbot will take them. Other than a game four clunker, Talbot has been as good as he's been in the regular season. McDavid is undoubtedly the man on the Oilers, but it's been the big boys (Patrick Maroon, Zack Kassian, and Darnell Nurse) that have come up big offensively and defensively.

Prediction: Oilers in 7

(3) St. Louis Blues vs. (4) Nashville Predators

The Blues took care of the Wild in five games thanks to Jake Allen righting his game in time. Despite Vladimir Tarasenko not being much of a factor in the series, the Blues got some production from other players, most notably Alex Steen and Jaden Schwartz. Vladimir Sobotka's presence has really helped defensively.

The Predators had their way with the Blackhawks in a sweep, giving up less than a goal per game. Pekka Rinne was on top of his game, and will most likely need to be again this series. Offensively, everything goes through the JOFA line (Viktor Arvidsson, Filip Forsberg, Ryan Johansen), but it's been PK Subban that has been a game-changer with his puck-moving skills from the blue line that have made it harder to key in on Roman Josi.

Prediction: Predators in 6

Eastern Conference Playoffs Preview

Another NHL season is in the books, and now, the real fun begins with the playoffs beginning Wednesday. First up is the Eastern Conference preview, and there have been a few surprises to go along with some expected results thus far.

(1) Montreal Canadiens vs. (4) New York Rangers

The Canadiens survived a coaching change, which mirrored an earlier change in 2003, to claim the top spot in the Atlantic Division. Carey Price was healthy once again, and as it always seems to be, everything will go through Price. It's not just Price that makes the Canadiens go, as Shea Weber has provided a solid presence on the blue line and while they're still looking for answers up front past Max Pacioretty (think Alex Galchenyuk and his health), the Canadiens are looking to make a deep run.

The Rangers are in this spot thanks to a rather tough Metropolitan Division that sees them get the short straw despite finishing with over 100 points on the season. Sure, Henrik Lundqvist is still in goal, but this is about as offensively driven of a team as you will find, as Mats Zuccarello leads the way. Of course, their defense could be better, as could the consistency of some players such as Michael Grabner, who fell off after a hot start to the season.

Prediction: Canadiens in 5

(2) Pittsburgh Penguins vs. (3) Columbus Blue Jackets

It was another wild season for Pittsburgh, as Sidney Crosby continues to lead the way, winning the Rocket Richard for most goals in a season, yet missing out on the Art Ross Trophy (more on the winner in the next piece). For the success though, injuries have played a role in their sometime struggles, as they will be without Kris Letang for the playoffs and both Marc-Andre Fleury and Matt Murray have had bouts of either inconsistency, injury, or both.

Columbus rode a hot streak in the middle of the season to the playoffs, and certainly, a healthy Sergei Bobrovsky was a big reason why the Blue Jackets are back in the playoffs. The Blue Jackets have also bought into coach John Tortorella's system, which explains their second best defense ranking. They will need that if they hope to fend off Crosby and company.

Prediction: Blue Jackets in 7

(1) Washington Capitals vs. (4) Toronto Maple Leafs

The Capitals are going all in this year. Stop if you've heard that one before. Goaltending is a major strength, as Braden Holtby and Phillipp Grubauer hold down the fort there, and in spite of Alex Ovechkin having a down year, the rest of the team has picked up the slack.

The surprise entrant of the playoff picture, the Maple Leafs have been as inconsistent as you would envision them to be, particularly since they're led by a bunch of kids who are not quite of drinking age in the U.S. Auston Matthews has been everything as advertised, but he's had help, too, as Mitch Marner led the team in assists. Defensively, the health of Frederik Andersen is one to watch, as he's been what the Leafs have hoped for. Still, this is a young group, so this may be nothing more than an opportunity to experience hockey at its best.

Prediction: Capitals in 5

(2) Ottawa Senators vs. (3) Boston Bruins

The Senators had a fair amount of adversity, from Craig Anderson taking time away to attend to his ailing wife to late-season nagging injuries to captain Erik Karlsson. While the offense struggled, as they ended up a -1 in goal scoring differential, goaltending and defense were strong, as Mike Condon helped keep the Senators afloat until Anderson came back. Now, with two good goaltenders, it will be up to them to help compensate for an offense that still needs work.

The Bruins were left for dead when they changed head coaches mid-season. However, a late-season surge puts them back into the playoffs. They aren't the same Bruins of earlier this decade, but goaltending has been a strong suit once again. When it comes to scoring, it's now David Pastrnak's team now. This Bruins team is more balanced to the point where they don't need to rely on one aspect to carry them.

Prediction: Senators in 7

A Guy Like Me

It had been a long, strange year for John Howard Scott, who was suddenly thrusted into the spotlight around this time last year, when he was voted into the NHL All-Star game by fans, only to be traded a few days later and the subsequent chain of  events that followed that would ultimately see him be in the All-Star Game that year and win the game's MVP honors. His autobiography, A Guy Like Me, written with the help of Brian Cazeneuve, tells of a big kid at heart who simply wanted to enjoy the game he loved.

From his early days to his struggle with being the tall guy in pee-wee hockey, he tells of a guy who truly is like any other person, right down to their struggles. His time at Michigan Tech, which had obstacles both on the ice (the team was never any good while he was there) and off the ice (he served time for DWI), is documented, as well as how his relationship with his now-wife evolved from the awkward beginnings to where it is now, are covered. Also included is his relationship with former teammate Derek Boogaard and how he had wished he could have done more, coaches who he loved playing for, and of course, the drama leading up to his All-Star turn. Scott may be retired now, as he announced it a couple months ago, but the mark he left on the game, however small it may be ultimately, won't soon be forgotten.

One of things that makes A Guy Like Me a great read is that everything you read is truly from the heart of Scott. Despite never being comfortable in the spotlight, the reader always got the sense that no matter the situation, he manages to get through, and throughout the book, he gives thanks to his wife. Another positive of the book is that he offers a side of some of hockey's more notorious villains (that does depend on which team or teams you root for) that most fans never get to see, and while he doesn't completely throw a few people under the bus, he does address a few of those critics in a respectful manner. The book may not be as detailed as some would like, but it is one of the most honest autobiographies one will read.

Out of Time?

NEW YORK RANGERS

2015-16 record: 46-27-9 (101 points)
Lost to Pittsburgh in Conference quarterfinals
Captain: Ryan McDonagh

Two consecutive seasons after reaching the Conference Finals, the New York Rangers took a couple of steps back. Yes, they made the playoffs, but they showed signs of wear and tear, and their defense that had long been known for locking things down suddenly looked mortal. The Rangers went into the bargain bin for free agents, and figure to be a little younger, thanks to a trade and a signing of the hottest college free agent of the off-season. As always, though, the Rangers are in win now mode, but is the window closed?

Despite having five players finish with more than 20 goals, thus their 7th place ranking offensively, not having a healthy Rick Nash hurt here, as he is still a difference maker even as he continues to drift further into his 30's. Trading for Mika Zibanejad cost them Derick Brassard, a difference of -6 goals, but the Rangers do get younger up front. The quest to get younger got a boost when Jimmy Vesey opted to sign with the Rangers as a college free agent, and along with Brady Skjei and Pavel Buchnevich, the Rangers could have an injection of youth to go along with the tested veterans. Defensively, Skjei would be a welcome addition to the team, as many of the blue liners had off-years. Even Ryan McDonagh, who led the team in the +/- category, didn't post his usual offensive numbers. The task gets even tougher, as Keith Yandle took his offensive output to Florida, leaving the rest of the unit to make up for the loss there. Is the Henrik Lundqvist that showed up in the first round loss to Pittsburgh a sign of things to come or an instance of an elite player having a bad spell at the wrong time? That is a question of whether the Rangers finally decide to give him a little more rest, as Antti Raanta more than showed that he could shoulder the load when necessary. The power play was middle of the pack, and this is where Yandle's contributions will be missed the most, as there is no immediate replacement. On the penalty kill, it was as bad as it could get, which explains why the Rangers picked up both Nathan Gerbe and Michael Grabner in free agency.

Prediction: 4th in the Metropolitan Division

The longer Summer for the Rangers should help in getting them back to deeper playoff runs. However, their defense must shore up, as they began to show cracks, and Lundqvist must show that his dismal playoff showing was not a sign that he is slowing down. Youth will be served one way or another, but the veterans will have to have bounce back seasons if they want to be Stanley Cup contenders again.

From Bright Minds to Bright Lights

Since he announced that he would not sign with the Nashville Predators, the team that drafted him in the third round in 2012, Jimmy Vesey was seen as both a hot commodity and public enemy number one, depending on what team you were rooting for at that point. His rights were traded to Buffalo prior to the NHL Draft, but his intention to test the free agency market was not to be denied. A few days after becoming a free agent, he has decided on a team that he will play for, and it's a team that needs younger talent.

The New York Rangers swooped in and were able to sign Vesey to a two-year deal. The move is great for the Rangers, who have been notorious for sacrificing their future for the now, often to little success. This past June, the Rangers didn't make their first pick until the third round, when they took former OHL Exceptional Status player and enigma Sean Day. Looking at the Rangers' prospect pool, their top player there is Pavel Buchnevich, who is expected to come across the pond from the KHL after being signed to an entry-level deal. While things aren't nearly as bleak, there could be more to be done, particularly since the Rangers are all-in to try and get Henrik Lundqvist a Stanley Cup as he turns 35 during the season and the window is closing. The good news? The want to get younger has manifested itself in guys like Kevin Hayes, Vesey, and the newly acquired Mika Zibanejad, all of whom are 25 and under. The bad news? Potential is all it is still, as the Rangers continue to rely on Lundqvist to steal games for them and there just isn't enough proven scorers not named Rick Nash. Certainly, the Eric Staal trade was not what the Rangers were hoping for, and now, they have to figure out Lundqvist's successor, as he can't play forever, and a Cory Schneider clone isn't going to fall from the sky the way it did for New Jersey in 2013.

As for Vesey, he has a lot to live up to, given the drama surrounding his decision to spurn Nashville and sign with a Rangers team that could be a mess in a few years as opposed to Stanley Cup contenders like Chicago or even teams on the rise like  Buffalo and Toronto. Recent Hobey Baker history suggests Vesey will succeed, as he follows both Jack Eichel and Johnny Gaudreau to the NHL. However, there is a 12 year gap as far as successful NHLers, as the last one to have a lengthy career was Jordan Leopold. The pressure will be on Vesey to perform, but given that the lights will still be on Lundqvist and Nash, it is possible that Vesey could one day make Broadway his own.

History Repeats Itself?

In a move that quite possibly could make or break General Manager Pierre Dorion's time with the Ottawa Senators, the Senators have traded Mika Zibanejad and a second round pick in 2018 to the New York Rangers in exchange for Derick Brassard and a seventh round pick in 2018.

On the surface, this may look like a good hockey trade, but history reveals that it is a major gamble for the Ottawa Senators, as they've yet to truly reap the rewards from the Bobby Ryan trade of June 2013. In case you're wondering what the package that they sent Anaheim to get him is doing, here it is: while Stefan Noesen hasn't been able to stay healthy, the first round pick of 2014 that they gave up became Nick Ritchie, and he is likely to compete for regular NHL duty next season. The other player in the deal was Jakob Silfverberg, and while his career high in points isn't impressive, he did set a career high in goals scored with 20, just three less than what Ryan's high with Ottawa has been, set in the 2013-14 season. Clearly, Ottawa was expecting something in the 30-goal range for the season, and that is where Ottawa has failed on many levels.

As for the Brassard-Zibanejad trade, the Senators are getting a player whose career high in points is just nine points higher than the player they traded away, plus six years older and carrying a higher cap hit, though they do get two extra years. While Brassard has been more consistent than Zibanejad, the same could have been said for Ryan at the time of the trade, and that's not surfaced since then. While Brassard could still produce numbers consistent with his usual production, if Zibanejad becomes the superstar that the Sens thought they were getting, it could come back to haunt them. And let's not forget that they won't have their second round pick in 2018.

Meet the 2016 Hockey Hall of Fame Class

This year's Hockey Hall of Fame class didn't have an obvious player entering their first year of eligibility, which meant that many of the players who have waited their turn to enter as one of the best to ever play had as good of a shot as anyone. Yesterday, three players and a head coach got the call to join the Hall of Fame in November.

Eric Lindros headlines the foursome, and while it has been wildly debated as to whether or not he deserves the nod, what is certain is that he dominated the game for a time in the mid to late 90's. Winning the Hart Trophy in the lockout shortened 1995 season, he also barely lost out on the Art Ross Trophy by tie-breaker and led the Flyers to a Stanley Cup Final in 1997. Injuries, namely concussions, curtailed what could have been a great career, but he still managed over a point a game.

Sergei Makarov spent the majority of his hockey career with the Red Army team in the old USSR, where he put up dynamic numbers alongside linemates Vladimir Krutov and fellow Hall of Famer Igor Larionov. He joined the NHL in the 1989-90 season, where he won the Calder Trophy at the age of 32, which forced the NHL to change the eligibility rules to cap at 26 years old for rookies. He amassed 384 points in 424 NHL games, and was on the winning teams for eight World Championships, two Olympics, and two World Juniors.

Rogie Vachon spent time with Montreal, Los Angeles, Detroit, and Boston, winning the Stanley Cup with Montreal twice. However, it was in Los Angeles that he earned his greatest recognition, setting many of the team's goalie records along the way. Only Jonathan Quick and Kelly Hrudey have put up great seasons in a Kings uniform alongside Vachon.

Pat Quinn will be posthumously honored. A player for nine seasons, he gained great recognition as coach of the Flyers, Kings, Canucks, Maple Leafs, and Oilers, making the Finals with the Flyers and Canucks one time each. He also held a managing position with Team Canada, and was Chair of the Hockey Hall of Fame at the time of his death in November 2014.

The induction ceremony will take place in November.

Restocking Needs, Part 2

Part two of what each team needs to do to ensure future success continues with a look at teams 11-20 on the original draft list.

New Jersey Devils

Number of picks: 9
Picks in the first round: 11th overall

Offense has been a major problem for the Devils, as they were at or near the bottom the last two seasons. Getting help for Kyle Palmieri, under the assumption that he will be resigned, since he's an RFA, would be priority one. Given that the Devils have plenty of chances to further restock a pipeline in desperate need, it is possible that they can package a couple of picks to get another first round pick. Of course, they also need all the help they can get in front of Cory Schneider.

Ottawa Senators

Number of picks: 6
Picks in the first round: 12th overall

Help down the middle and on the blue line should be addressed. The former would be ideal in that there's no stud there that can take top line minutes while the latter would be great in stopping goals, particularly since Jared Cowen didn't pan out and now, they have to replace Chris Phillips' dependability as a shutdown guy. Perhaps Dion Phaneuf can replace some of that, but another prospect like Dante Fabbro would help.

Carolina Hurricanes

Number of picks: 10
Picks in the first round: 13th and 21st overall

In recent drafts, the Hurricanes were able to makeover their blue line, going from terrible to promising in just two years. Now, it's the forwards' turn, as they need offense. The good news is that they have plenty of opportunities to do so in the draft, and possibly move up in the first round if they choose. If there is a team that can change the dynamic of this year's draft, Carolina is that team.

Boston Bruins

Number of picks: 7
Picks in the first round: 14th and 29th/30th overall

In the quest to shed some salary, the Bruins suddenly got old real quick, particularly on the blue line. Given the dearth of blue line prospects that can step in right away, getting another body there would be a good idea. Also, filling that perpetual hole on the right side of the forward line would be good.

Minnesota Wild

Number of picks: 4
Picks in the first round: 15th overall

Trading picks for short term rentals that don't pan out have left the Wild with only four chances at replenishing a farm system badly in need of it. It doesn't help that those picks are in the first, fourth, and seventh rounds, meaning the Wild won't get many chances to get the best available. Shedding salary would be a nice start, though the Wild would have to make a hard deal for decent picks. As for needs, just about anything to improve depth would be great.

Detroit Red Wings

Number of picks: 6
Picks in the first round: 16th overall

The most gaping hole the Wings need to fill is likely going to be one left by Pavel Datsyuk's impending retirement. That means a center with high potential. However, the Wings would be wise to try and improve a blue line that has been in flux since Nicklas Lidstrom retired in 2012. When the best defender since then has been Kyle Quincey, that speaks to the problems of finding even a capable third defender.

Nashville Predators

Number of picks: 7
Picks in the first round: 17th overall

The Jimmy Vesey saga will leave the Predators without a high-quality scorer in the system. However, given that Kevin Fiala is still around and there is a chance that Collin Wilson may have finally turned a corner in the playoffs, the Preds may very well choose to address a potential long-term problem on the blue line first. Getting one that is also physical would be twice as nice, since they lack overall grit.

Philadelphia Flyers

Number of picks: 10
Picks in the first round: 18th overall

With the blue line and blue paint prospect pool filled, the Flyers can put the majority of their focus on the forwards. Scoring forwards are in short supply, and the Flyers could always use another scorer. On the back end, it's simply a matter of roster space that keeps the blue line group as deep as it is, though that figures to change by a player or two next season.

New York Islanders

Number of picks: 5
Picks in the first round: 19th overall

The Isles don't lack for toughness or for primary scoring. However, secondary scoring became a problem, and picking up another player or two that can push for a spot would be helpful. Another blue line prospect wouldn't hurt, either, as one of their top prospects there figures to be a regular next season. The Isles only pick once in the first three rounds, but don't bet against them making a trade to get another first round pick, as they've done so the last two drafts.

New York Rangers

Number of picks: 5
First pick: 81st overall

The Rangers continue to trade top picks, having been without one since 2012, when they took Brady Skjei. Their annual push for the Stanley Cup has also robbed them of considerable prospects that could have helped them now such as Anthony Duclair. Getting their prospect pool back to snuff would be great, but given their annual trades, top players that would normally be available will be hard to come by while the prospects that are there would have to look over their shoulder for any possibility of being moved to a different address.