LATEST | Scout identifies the possible �Home-Runs' of the next draft: Clearly shows who the Canucks should target

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Felip Gosselin
June 6, 2023 (6:38 PM)

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The draft is set to be the NHL's next big event once the Finals are over. 30 NHL teams only have one thing to focus on, and it's a can't-miss opportunity for the Canucks.

In the midst of a retooling, Allvin and the Nucks currently hold the 11th seed in this year's draft, and the player they take is set to become an essential piece of their future success.

The Athletics' scout Corey Pronman drew a list of the draft-eligible prospects with the best upside, and it shows who the Canucks should have on top of their list. We shrunk down the list to the prospects who may be available when the Canucks walk up the stage.

Surprisingly enough, Matvei Michkov stands at the top of his list, Connor Bedard sits at number 2, Adam Fantilli, Leo Carlsson, and Will Smith are top 5.

6. Nate Danielson

He is already identified as a target for the Canucks, and, intriguingly, he's listed 6th for his upside. A WHL Prospect who's viewed as a player who has it all, from the skating to the hockey IQ, all he needs is better quality teammates, and his offensive numbers will blow up. Listed as the 7th North-American skater, he could be available when the Canucks get the stage.

7. David Reinbacher

Perhaps he is the right-handed defenseman the Canucks desperately need; the thought is that he'll be drafted prior to their picks. He displays size, skills, and toughness, and Pronman described him as an all-day top-four defenseman.

8. Ryan Leonard

Another name linked to the Canucks, the centerman shadowed by Will Smith's success, could very well be a similar situation to what we witnessed in 2019 when Trevor Zegras went 9th after he'd been playing behind Jack Hughes. Leonard is an elite two-way centerman, and it wouldn't be a surprise if he joined the NHL right after his first collegiate season.

The Canucks will be facing tough decisions when it's their time to get up on the stage, given that Allvin doesn't move the pick to shed cap space. At the end of the day, the Nucks will have an opportunity to drive an excellent prospect, who should it be?

SOURCE: The Athletic