Two experts have just predicted the first three selections of the Canadiens, and the outcome is causing a lot of discussion
As the 2023 NHL draft approaches, experts are becoming increasingly active in providing their final list for this highly promising year.
To get into the spirit of this important event for the future of several NHL teams, the two experts from The Athletic, Corey Pronman and Scott Wheeler, took on the task of conducting a mock draft .This simulated draft is based on the choices they believe each team could make at their respective selection positions.
Of course, considering that the Canadiens will have three picks among the top 37 in the draft, it is very interesting to look at the outcome to get an idea of what the team's draft could look like in a few weeks. It must be said right away that the final picture is causing a lot of discussion.
Here are the three selections for the Canadiens:
At the 29th pick (provisional): Andrew Cristall - LW - WHL
At the 37th pick: Michael Hrabal - G - USH
According to the two experts, with the 5th overall pick, the Canadiens will be considering the complex situation of Matvei Michkov, the safe choice of center Dalibor Dvorsky, or defenseman David Reinbacher. However, they will ultimately opt for a universally admired player in Leonard, who brings competitiveness and goal-scoring ability.
In their opinion, the organization would take a swing for the fences with Cristall at the Panthers' selection. He is the most polarizing prospect in the draft, as some perceive him as a top-10 talent in terms of pure skill but may slide due to several shortcomings in his game, especially defensively.
However, by taking a chance on high-level offensive talent in Michkov, Kent Hughes could make a big impact in the late first round if Cristall is still available.
Lastly, it's no longer a surprise that the Canadiens are likely to focus on selecting a goaltender with their early second-round pick. Pronman and Wheeler believe that Hrabal will be the Canadiens' choice among all the available candidates. His 6-foot-6 stature would charm the organization, according to the experts.
Would you be satisfied with these three selections for the Canadiens in the 2023 draft?
| POLL | ||
Would you be satisfied with these three selections for the Canadiens (Leonard, Cristall, and Hrabal) in the 2023 draft? | ||
| Very satisfied | 16 | 11.2 % |
| Satisfied | 34 | 23.8 % |
| Somewhat dissatisfied | 50 | 35 % |
| Very dissatisfied | 43 | 30.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
