Mock Entry Draft

The 2006 NHL entry draft is less than two weeks away. As the primary means by which new players enter the league the draft is a critical step for struggling franchises trying to develop a winning formula. Without further ado, here is the draft as Eric Nantel-Smith expects that it may unfold.

This mock draft has been completed without taking into consideration any potential trades.

1. St-Louis: Erik Johnson – There shouldn’t be any debate here anymore.

2. Pittsburgh: Jonathan Towes – Already having depth at C for the Pens, he would be the best suited to move to the wing for either Crosby or Malkin.

3. Chicago: Jordan Staal – Large frame, can play 2-way game for the Hawks, perfect for a team trying to build a more balanced squad.

4. Washington: Phil Kessel – Needs a top playmaker to go with AO. Could give the Caps a huge 1-2 punch for many years.

5. Boston: Nicklas Backstrom – Loads of offensive potential here for the B’s. Big numbers while playing with the men in the SEL.

6. Columbus: Peter Mueller – Big man in the middle. Tough between him and Brassard, but size is the difference, already having the smallish Brule.

7. NY Islanders: Derick Brassard – Full-blown offence here. Without any solid D prospects to choose from they go with the BPA.

8. Phoenix: Jiri Tlusty – A gifted offensive player, which the Yotes need to add to their system.

9. Minnesota: Kyle Okposo – The hometown boy gets scooped up here. The Wild need a power forward to compliment their smaller, skilled forwards.

10. Florida: Bryan Little - Needing some help in offensive centers in the system they take the small, but productive Little. With big wingers on either side, he’ll be a solid playmaker.

11. Los Angeles: Bob Sanguinetti – Needing to restock their blue line, this offensive D should shine in the new NHL.

12. Atlanta: Michael Frolik – Loving Europeans, the Thrashers take the risky winger. Hopefully he will be playing in the Q next season, which should help his progression.

13. Toronto: James Sheppard – The strong center will one day take over from Sundin.

14. Vancouver: Chris Stewart – With the top C’s gone, the Canucks select another future power forward.

15. Tampa Bay: Jonathan Bernier – The Bolts have seen what strong goaltending can do. They get the top net minder in the draft.

16. Montreal: Patrick Berglund – The Habs need to get bigger up the middle, and the large, offensively gifted center is just what they need.

17. Minnesota: Ty Wishart – Adding more size to the system, the Wild get a strong defender, and able to get the offense going.

18. Colorado: Ivan Vishnevsky – Seriously short on blue line, they grab the offensively gifted Russian. Will need to be paired with a stay at home D.

19. Anaheim: Brian Strait – Set with young forward talent, the Ducks pick up a solid, steady D.

20. San Jose: Jamie McGinn – A good success rate of drafting offensive talent, the Sharks may reach a bit to get this big power forward.

21. NY Rangers: David Fischer – Smooth skating rearguard is what the Rangers need. Winner of the 2006 “Mr. Hockey” in Minn., he will one day be a steadying force.

22. Philadelphia: Michael Grabner – Set at C, the Flyers take the speedster winger. Many highlight reel goals await.

23. New Jersey: Chris Summers – Looking to replace their loss of defensemen, the Devils take the solid, smooth skating D. Very physical presence.

24. Buffalo: Nigel Williams – Set with a young crop of forwards, the Sabres take the very large, but very raw blue liner. A project, but one worth investing in.

25. Washington: Mark Mitera – The Caps are in need of grit and defensive prospects so they grab the big defenseman with a hard edge.

26. Calgary: Cory Emmerton – It’s no secret the Flames need help on offense. This speedy pivot should do well in the new NHL.

27. St. Louis: Mike Forney – They have their franchise D, now it’s time to look at the offense. Potential power forward, he is a project with big upside.

28. Dallas: Jesse Joensuu – His stock has fallen a bit, but the Stars love the Finns. The big forward just needs to work on his skating, and then he could be a big presence in front of the net.

29. Ottawa: Yuri Alexandrov – Solid, steady, not flashy D. Already playing against the men, he is a safe pick.

30. Detroit: Riku Helnius – Steal of the draft so far. Wings will eventually be set in goal once this big net minder gets to the big team. Solid glove, and plays the angles well.

Eric Nantel-Smith is one of a growing number of fantasy experts who write for the Cafe. You can catch up with Eric and all the other authors in the Cafe’s forums.