TWO future playmakers end up with the Canadiens in NHL Mock Draft 3.0

70th Overall: Hiroki Gojsic, RW/Kelowna Rockets

At 6’3, 198 pounds, Hiroki Gojsic’s size played a major role in me taking him with the No. 70 selection. But he also enjoyed a fine rookie year with the WHL’s Kelowna Rockets, posting 50 points and 21 goals in 68 games. If he makes a jump in productivity next season, the Habs could have a steal if they select him here. 

78th Overall: Melvin Fernstrom, RW/Orebro HK J20

He’s a versatile forward who spent a lot of time on the international circuit and as a force in J20 Nationell. Overall, Melvin Fernstrom put up 31 goals in 45 regular season contests, and an additional five goals in eight postseason games. He saw time in the SHL on a limited basis this year, but the big club will be his home next season and at least through 2025-26. 

102nd Overall: Kristian Epperson, LW/USNT

A forward for the US National U17 and U18 teams, Kristian Epperson wasn’t as productive in 2023-24 in the same way he was in 2022-23. But he’s a workhorse type of forward who brings plenty of energy when he receives ice time, which could foreshadow a future lower-line role in the NHL a few years from 2024. 

130th Overall: Kuzma Voronin, RW/Youngstown Phantoms

He’s a smallish winger who, like Kristian Epperson, doesn’t boast a lot of productivity, having finished the 2023-24 regular season with 21 points and 10 goals in 52 games. But he’s got a late birthday, and it’s also fair to point out that it was his first full season in the USHL following some productive seasons with the New Jersey Rockets, so the potential is there.