With the NHL draft a little more than a week away, I figured I would look at possible picks for the Montreal Canadiens.
Now , do keep in mind that this is my wish list on the top 5 guys that could still be there at the 17th round.
1) Mark McNeill, Center, Prince Albert Raiders (WHL)
McNeill is a strong smart Power Forward. He’s a hard worker that doesn’t take a backseat to anything or anyone. His hockey sense is excellent and not afraid to go to the net and a nitty gritty forward. His size is his biggest asset at 6’1”, 204 pounds, he knows how to use his size to his advantage. Last season played RW, so he’s adaptable and could really help with the Power Forward need for the Habs. He also played the point on the PP so having him back there with Subban in a couple of years could be perfect for the Habs PP.
2) Zack Phillips, Center, St John Seadogs (QMJHL)
Ranked # 9 in the Hockey News Draft guide, Phillips is a good play making centermen, with a smart head and good vision of the ice. Has a great gift for play making, and finding the net, however is biggest problem is his size, a small centermen that lacks size, and skating. His skating is not very solid, but that is something that you can still work on. I watched Phillips play for the past 2 season and liked his poised and vision on the ice.
3) Brandon Saad, Left Wing, Saginaw Spirit (OHL)
A big left winger that is an excellent 2 way player, that would fit perfectly in Jacques Martin system. He’s responsible in all zones, and makes smart decisions with the puck. He got 55 points in 59 games last season, that as a good balance of speed, passing and shooting. He’s very strong on the puck and rarely makes mistake on the ice.
4) Tyler Biggs, Right Wing, US development Program
This kid is a nitty gritty grinder that backs down from no one. He’s a rough and tough Power Forward that will get dirty in the corners and fight for position in front of the net. A lot of scouts says that he’s a pain like his father Don Biggs was. The Habs could use a player like this that will get under the skin of their opponents (a la Brad Marchand). Expected to play in the NCAA with Miami University this upcoming season.
5) Nathan Beaulieu, Defense, St John Seadogs (QMJHL)
Beaulieu finally came out of the shadow of playing for his father in St. John. When, his dad left, Beaulieu made a big impact on the blue line being a reliable 2 way defensemen. This season he played with an edge collecting 45 points in 65 games. He’s the type of defensemen that brings up his game a notch in important games and playoffs. Smart heads up defensemen that is just as strong following the rush, or staying at home clearing the front of the net.
Here 5 guys that I would love to see the Habs select. Agree or disagree let me know what you think. All opinions are welcome.
That’s it for now.
