Round 3A: Tomas Lavoie, D/Cape Breton
As mentioned earlier, size has been another theme of this simulation, and Tomas Lavoie’s 6’4 inch, 225-pound frame is striking. This blueliner is already capable of landing the big hit and ending sequences before they begin, and he’ll also rack up the assists.
Round 3B: Will Zellers, LW/North Dakota
If Will Zellers duplicates at the University of North Dakota what he did at Shattuck St. Mary’s, this potential mid-round pick will work his way into strong consideration for the NHL after his long college career wraps up. Not saying he’ll log two points per game or anything like that at North Dakota, but his entertaining play is worth paying attention to at the next level.
Round 4: Josh Zakreski, LW/Portland
Josh Zakreski continues the trend of potential-based picks - he will potentially accrue more size and productivity thanks to his overall frame and uptick in points - 49 this past season and a 24-point improvement overall in the regular season. They’re not where they ideally need to be, unlike some who I took earlier in this simulation, but there is a good chance he will get there.
Round 5A: Madden Mulawka, G/Regina
At 6’2, 205 lbs, 18-year-old Madden Mulawka is on his way to attaining the ideal size many franchises look for in goaltenders. His first two games in the WHL were forgettable, but he spent most of his time with the Edmonton Jr. Oilers of the AEHL U18, where he logged a 0.929 save percentage, two shutouts, and a 2.20 GAA.
Round 5B: Julius Miettinen, C/Everett
Another pick in this simulation with awesome size, Julius Miettinen boasts an enticing 6’3, 207-pound frame, and he finished a successful debut season in the WHL with 67 points and 31 goals. He probably won’t fall this far on Day 2, but if he does, Kent Hughes needs to be the one to stop the freefall.