2023 Draft: A center with a very imposing size could be available at the start of the 2nd round
With the draft quickly approaching, all Canadiens fans are focused on the 5th overall pick. However, we should not forget that Kent Hughes will have the chance to select two players between the 31st and 37th ranks. The organization could certainly make a big impact by adding two very promising young prospects who could contribute to the team's rebuilding process.
Although several excellent goalies are likely to be available at the start of the second round, it wouldn't be surprising to see the Canadiens' general manager turn to forwards.
If this is the case, Anton Wahlberg could represent a significant addition for the Montreal team. Ranked in the third or fourth round midway through the season, the Swede has made a considerable leap in the recruiters' rankings, and he could be selected at the end of the first round.
But who is Anton Wahlberg? He's a center with a very imposing size (6" 3 and 195 pounds) who possesses an excellent stride. His work ethic is simply impeccable, and he doesn't hesitate to apply solid checks to win his one-on-one battles. The 17-year-old has very good hands and is capable of pulling off masterful dekes, as you can see in the following video:
The Malmö Redhawks' forward is an excellent two-way center and he is enormously responsible in his territory. His recent performances have greatly impressed recruiters, and many believe he will become a very dangerous power forward in the NHL.
Anton Wahlberg scored 14 goals and 13 assists in 32 games in the J20 Nationell before joining the first team in the Swedish elite league to complete the season. He notably accumulated 6 points in 7 games to help Sweden win the silver medal at the U18 World Championship last May.
| POLL | ||
Do you believe the Canadiens should draft Anton Wahlberg with their 37th pick? | ||
| Yes | 40 | 74.1 % |
| No | 14 | 25.9 % |
| List of polls | ||
