Huge surprise to expect in the draft? This would be a dream scenario for Canadiens fans
Although the majority of experts agree that the first four picks of the draft will likely consist of Connor Bedard, Adam Fantilli, Leo Carlsson, and Will Smith, some are not ruling out the possibility of a team taking a risk and drafting Matvei Michkov.
The 18-year-old is possibly the second most talented player in the 2023 draft, but the geopolitical situation in Russia, his contract with SKA, and his temperament are worrying factors that could make him slip a few ranks on the upcoming June 28.
On the latest episode of their podcast 32 Thoughts , Elliotte Friedman questioned his co-host, Jeff Marek, in order for him to paint a picture of his predictions for the top-5 in the draft. Marek initially mentioned that he believed Michkov would be drafted 4th by the Sharks before retracting and stating that the Russian would slip a few ranks. Ultimately, the expert surprised everyone by saying that it would be Zach Benson who would go in fourth position, just ahead of Will Smith who would be selected by the Canadien.
This would be a dream scenario for the management team of the organization as Kent Hughes would have the choice to decide between two extremely talented players in Will Smith and Matvei Michkov. We strongly believe that the general manager of the Canadien would opt for the American center player if the opportunity arose.
Jeff Marek also mentioned that the San Jose Sharks are very interested in adding quality defensemen and goalies to the organization. Could Kent Hughes offer the 5th pick and the 37th pick to ensure selection among the first four ranks? With the 5th pick, Mike Grier could draft David Reinbacher and possibly get an excellent goaltender at the 37th rank.
Sources : 32 Thoughts
| POLL | ||
Which player will the San Jose Sharks select in the 4th position? | ||
| Will Smith | 65 | 52.4 % |
| Matvei Michkov | 47 | 37.9 % |
| Zach Benson | 8 | 6.5 % |
| David Reinbacher | 4 | 3.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
