Habs Top Nine First Round Mock Draft 2.0

1. Toronto Maple Leafs

The Toronto Maple Leafs go ahead with no surprises and take the best player available in Auston Matthews. He has the potential to be an elite number one center for many years to come and will fit in well with the Leafs exceptional core of young offensive talent. Matthews has dominated at every level he’s played at, including for team USA at the World Championships.

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Here is what Future Considerations thought of Matthews

"“Matthews is a strong, powerful player who has the ability to make those around him elevate their games. He is a real good skater with powerful strides and strong jump. He possesses strong vision, excellent possession skills, a strong shot and the ability to create plays out of nothing for himself and his linemates. He is also strong defensively, bringing a good effort level and complete game.”"

In my opinion, there is no chance that Matthews will be available to the Habs at the 9th pick, or any chance the Habs move up to the first pick and draft Matthews. There are some rumors that the Coyotes were trying to move up in the Draft but the likelihood of the Leafs trading this pick are slim to none. The Habs won’t trade the necessary assets to move up this high in the Draft.

Next: Winnipeg Jets Second Overall Pick