Montreal Canadiens: Was The 2018 NHL Draft Really That Bad?
Alex Romanov
Romanov was projected to be a puck-mover, and he loved to use his frame as the number one tool in his defensive game. He played physically, and his high IQ and strong skating rounded out a strong game, that set top-four expectations for the young Russian defender. His following two seasons after the draft were very much development years, and he was given ample time to develop.
He shone brightest against his own age group, looking like a dominant presence during the 2018-19 World Junior Championship. He was awarded a trophy case full of tournament accolades, including the best defenseman of the World Juniors. His seven assists led the entire tournament in that category, and he was a crucial part of the team’s success and eventual Bronze medal.
Habs GM Kent Hughes pulled off a monstrous trade on the draft floor, during the 2022 Draft, which saw Alex Romanov sent to the New York Islanders, and he subsequently sent the pick acquired in the Romanov trade to Chicago along with their 66th overall selection in exchange for center Kirby Dach, which add another plus for this draft.
Jordan Harris
Marc Bergevin selected defenseman Jordan Harris with the 71st overall selection, in the third round of the draft. Harris was coming off a season in the high school ranks with Kimball Union, where he posted just under point-per-game totals 35 points in 37 games. His play drew the attention of North Eastern men’s Hockey scouts, which resulted in Harris committing to a pact with them.
He would play four seasons there, improving his game in all areas, in preparation for the pros. Harris would put a bow on his college career, earning the captaincy in his final campaign. Things came full circle for Harris at the end of his senior year, as he signed his entry-level contract. He was voted best defenseman, and defensive defenseman by the NCAA and Hockey East respectively.
The slow approach was the best option, as Harris showed flashes of his smarts and strong skating during his 10-game stint in 2021-22. His rookie season was pretty masterful, the young rearguard looked poised, and his skating ability and defensive acumen allowed him to transition to the NHL with the Habs almost flawlessly. The poise and confidence oozed out of Harris, and while he is underrated, he will likely etch out an almost permanent role on the blueline, due to his versatility. Another positive notch for the ’18 class.