Montreal Canadiens: Brady Tkachuk to return to Boston University in 2018
If there is still a debate as to whether the Montreal Canadiens should draft Filip Zadina or Brady Tkachuk, the latter’s commitment to college may sway that.
Brady Tkachuk is among the top-five heading into the 2018 NHL Draft, and a player the Montreal Canadiens could take if they wanted to. Past philosophy would make him an obvious selection (finger slowly pointed towards Rick Dudley), but there are other aspects of the wingers playing style that work besides his size.
Tkachuk has the tools to be an effective power forward in the NHL or a serviceable centre as some scouts mention. He’s a player that produces in all areas of the ice both offensively and defensively and isn’t afraid to go to the high-danger areas to make an impact. Tkachuk’s 8 goal and 23 assist season may not stand out relative to the other talent in the draft, but his potential will make whoever takes him satisfied in the end.
It could very well be the Montreal Canadiens in June which makes the decision one of many important ones this offseason. The NCAA is a different beast than the CHL. If Tkachuk played in the OHL as brother Matthew did for London, his numbers would skyrocket.
However, there is something that may swing the team’s thought process ever so slightly. Mike McMahon tweeted that Tkachuk has decided to return to Boston University for his sophomore year.
Told that Brady Tkachuk will return to BU for his sophomore season. The Terriers were going after a grad transfer who was told the offer was no longer available due to Tkachuk returning.
— Mike McMahon (@MikeMcMahonCHN) May 8, 2018
When you compare that with Filip Zadina who many believe, as well as himself, is ready to jump to the NHL next year, it raises some question marks. Firstly, to deal with the Tkachuk decision. It was nothing short of a smart one. Good things come to those who wait, and it looks like he’s willing to put in the time to grow in the NCAA and make the jump to the pros when he can contribute the most.
It makes you wonder what kind of Tkachuk the team who drafts him will get when that happens. Curiosity is a dangerous thing at times, and something the Habs may covet at the podium.
Zadina still seems like the go-to pick for the Montreal Canadiens, but don’t be surprised if they go off the board here.
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