Jasper Boqvist (99di 96sk 72pa 69sc 72df 86po 70ov)
Round 2 #36 overall by New Jersey Devils
Always have your eye on players with a long history of point-per-game seasons. A very smart player, Boqvist has the skillset to make it as an NHLer, but cannot assume a third or fourth line role. Much like Anthony Duclair, he can only thrive on top lines, accompanied by skilled playmakers. With Hischier and Hughes as the number one and two centers, he definitely has the teammates to put him to good use. It will be interesting to see what the Devils do with Boqvist next season. In 35 games with the Devils he struggled to put up points. He finished the season playing top line min on the Binghamton Devils producing 11 points in 19 games.
Michael Rasmussen (81di 76sk 67pa 67sc 75df 93po 69ov)
2017 round 1 #9 overall by Detroit Red Wings
The Red Wings decided it would be best for Rasmussen’s development as a second year pro to start him in the AHL where he can play an important role with loads of ice time. The plan has paid off early as Rasmussen was humming along with five points in his first four games before losing time to a wrist injury from a slash. He finished the season with 22 points in 35 games. He is one of a few on a stacked Grand Rapids Griffins team that will likely be called up at some point.
Gustav Lindstrom (74di 78sk 60pa 56sc 80df 86po 71ov)
Round 2 #38 overall by Detroit Red Wings
Lindstrom played in 16 games with the Red Wings this season. Playing just over 16min a game while also help on the penalty kill. Despite a shortened season due to injury, the Red Wings are pleased with the progress Lindström showed this year in a championship season for Frölunda of the SHL. Lindström was relied on heavily in all situations, playing big minutes as a young defenseman on a team full of veterans. He possesses a very good shot, is a solid defender and enjoys playing physical. Lindström still projects as an all-around top-four defender at the NHL level.
Ryan Lindgren (77di 82sk 62pa 59sc 79df 85po 68ov)
Round 2 #49 overall by Boston Bruins
Lingren played 60 games with the Rangers this year. Play just under 17 minuets a game while becoming a key figure on the penalty kill. The 2016 second-round draft-selection is not only eating up minutes with the big club but has also managed to rack up a surprising 0.3 points per game in that span. The rookie has never been viewed as having the ceiling of a top-two defenseman, but his future as a Ranger appears to be aimed squarely at a reliable top-four role.
Jack Leschyshyn (79di 85sk 71pa 71sc 69df 90po 69ov)
Round 2 #62 overall by Vegas Golden Knights
Leschyshyn is in his first full pro season for the Chicago Wolves.He is smart and plays the game from defense out, meaning he takes care of the defensive aspect first. He skates well, has fantastic instincts, which should bode well for his future. He’s used in a third line role, doesn’t see power play time and is often deployed on the first shift after a power play. He is usually on the right side of the puck, keeps the man in front of him, using a quick stick to defend.
David Cotton – Is interesting prospect of the wait and see variety. After coming off of four years with Boston College. Cotton has signed a ELC with the Carolina Hurricanes. Cotton made big steps inproving each of his four years at Boston College. This last year Cotton had 15g 24a for 39 points in 32 games as the captain of the team.