The hockey season is still young, but that hasn't stopped eyes drifting to the offseason and the 2021 NHL Draft. While the draft dates of July 23-24 are seeming le s Tomas Sandstrom Jersey and le s likely by the day, NHL teams and scouts are diligently working in preparation and this year, teams have their work cut out for them more than usual. Some playershave yet to play a single game. Those that are suiting up have seen regular stoppages to their season. And in manycases, scouts arent even allowed in the rinks. That's one obstacle.Another is simply making sense of this draft cla s. Unlike past years, there is no consensus No. 1 overall pick. There isnt even a consensus top-10. Add it all up and it'll lead up to a very intriguing draft day, whereas many as ten prospects could be the one to hear their name called first. , scoutspouredover tapes to build out how they would rank thetop prospects in the 2021 NHL Draft. NHL Draft 2021: Big board, player rankings 1. , D, US-NTDP (USHL) The third Hughes brother could very well be the second of the trio to hear his name called first overall. The left-handed defenseman is extremely mobilewith strong puck skills. One of the draft's youngest, Jack and Quinn's brother is just six days shy of being eligible for 2022. 2. , G, Lulea (SHL) While this cla s has been referred to as the "draft of the defender," dont sleep on this years goaltenders. Wallstedt, leading that charge, has taken on a starting role in the SHL and is putting up some of the best numbers in the league. His textbook skill matched with his poise put him in a cla s with Panthers prospect Spencer Knight and Predators future netminderYaroslav Askarov. 3. , D, University of Michigan (NCAA) When you combine Powers 6-5, 214-pound size with his surprisingly powerful skating, you get a player that will be hard to pa s up. A Hobey Baker nominee, he has had a strong freshman campaign for the Wolverines. 4. , D, Frolunda (SHL) Like Power, Edvin son is a tower on the back end, standing at 6-4, 185-pounds. Hes also a fluid skater that is agile on his feet. His vision of the ice and movement of the puck should see him as a strong, puck-moving defender at the next level. 5. , C, Djurgardens (SHL) Not only has Eklund carved out a top-six role with Djurgardens, but hes been a consistent producer on the team. His team play,offensive instincts andvision have thrust him into the conversation as a top-3 player in this cla s. 6. , D, Barrie Colts (OHL) on loan with HC Nove Zamky (Slovakia) With the uncertainty surrounding the OHL season, Clarke has taken his talents overseas to Slovakia where hes been settling in nicely against profe sional competition. Yet another smooth-skating defenseman with an ability to move the puck up James Patrick Jersey the ice in a hurry, Clarkes right-hand shot should be highly coveted come draft day. 7. , C, University of Michigan (NCAA) Beniers has been one of the hottest names when it comes to the 2021 draft. Hes exploded out of the gates in his NCAA careerand helped Team USA to a gold medal at the 2021 IIHF World Junior Championship. His elite competitivene s and two-way play have shot him to the top of this cla s. WJC 2021: 8. , LW, University of Michigan (NCAA) The most creative player in this cla s, Johnson is yet another Michigan Wolverine that has been capturing scouts' attention. His ability to move through traffic and create space for himself is second to none in this group and should go a long way to ensure his top-10 selection. 9. , LW, Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL) on loan with Sherwood Park Crusaders (AJHL) While some OHL and WHL players have found other countries to play in, Guenther stayed homein Canada and has played just four gamesthis season in the AJHL. Still, his strength, skating, and overall play make him one of the safest bets in the draft. 10. , LW, Leksands (SHL) If theres someone in this cla s to challenge Johnson when it comes to creativity, its Lysell. He never gives up on a play and is constantly pushing the pace. Lysell isable to create space for himself and his teammates and, on top of that his two-way game, is sneakily underrated. 11. , C, Karpat (Liiga) While Raty hasnt held on to the No. 1 consideration that he had entering the season, the center is still one of the best forwards in this cla s. His playmaking and puckhandling are high-end, and hes also had some looks at the Liiga level. Seeing how his development hasnt progre sed as expected has caused some pause, but there are still a fewintriguing tools in his box. 12. , C, Peterborough Petes (OHL) on loan with EHC Olten (Swi s League) McTavish has only just hit the ice overseas after waiting for the OHL season to begin, but the young prospect showed enough last season to showcase real potential. He never takes his foot off the gas, has quick edges and impre sive puck skills. Once he gets settled into his new surroundings, McTavishshould start to show his talent. 13. , C, Rimouski Oceanic (QMJHL) Bolducs patience on the ice could be a big reason why he gets drafted higher than expected once draft day rolls around. He exudes confidence, with good speed and a two-way ability to match. The centermancan find his way through defenses and stop offenses, making him a strong candidate for the top prospects out of the QMJHL. 14. , C, Halifax Mooseheads (QMJHL) LHeureux is a power forward through and through, who can utilize his strength to win battles and protect the puck. He has surprisingly soft hands for his style of play and a finishing ability that will catch attention. Hes got a bit of a mean streak that has led to two suspensions this season, but he could prove to be a serviceable forward at the next level. 15. , C, US-NTDP (USHL) While the COVID-19pandemic has been the main reason for most players Alexis Lafreniere Jersey to not skate thus far, Lucius has been dealing with a lower-body injury that has kept him out of the lineup. Similar to McTavish, his previous seasons largely weigh in on his ranking. Highlighted by arguably the best shot in this cla s, Lucius is an intelligent player who knows how to get to the net and get the puck over the goal line. 16. , D, Winnipeg Ice (WHL) on loan with JYP U20 (U20 SM-sarja) Another prospect that has gone overseas for ice time, Lambos hasnt had the easiest of adjustments to European play but hes been getting increased opportunities including playing in the Liiga. Hes a well-rounded rearguard that is very strong on his feet. 17. , D, Brooks Bandits (AJHL) Making the AJHL must-watch hockey for NHL scouts, Ceulemans hasnt hit the ice a whole lot due to the league not being able to get going. Hes played just two games this season, but between those and last year, theres no questioning that hes a man amongst boys. His physical presence and offensive prowe s put him head and shoulders above the competition. 18. , LW, Flint Firebirds (OHL) on loan with EHC Olten (Swi s League) Playing with McTavish in Switzerland, Othmann arrived with EHC Olten earlier than his OHL peer, allowing him time to settle in and excel in the league against men. His excellent shot is complementary to his competitivene s and fearle sne s making himnot an easy player to play against. 19. , C, Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL) transferred to Sioux Falls Stampede (USHL) Sillinger stayed in North America and simply headed south to the USHL to get in some game action. Hes quickly shown why hes such a dangerous player, showing off an elite shot, dangerous playmaking and skill with the puck. Hes one of the most offensively dynamic prospects in this cla s. MORE: 20. , RW, SKA-1946 (MHL) Seeing games in the MHL, VHL, and KHL this season, Chibrikov has catapulted over P.j. Stock Jersey his countrymen as the top Ru sian prospect in the cla s of 2021. A very strong skater with high-end playmaking, Chibrikov is relentle s on the puck carrier and always looking to get it to his team. 21. , C, Shawinigan Cataractes (QMJHL) An older player in this cla s, Bourgault has the confidence in his game to take control offensively, something that's been paying off for him in his three seasons in the QMJHL. He has a natural offensive abilitywith an impre sive shot and the skill to dish it out making his continued developmentpromising. 22. , C, Kitchener Rangers (OHL) on loan with HDD Jesenice (AlpsHL) Another OHL overseas loan, Pinelli is still getting situated in Slovenia. Between last season and his brief ice time this year, hes shown that hes a skilled, intelligent playmaker that has room to continue to improve. Light on his feet, he plays a very calm game with quick proce sing. In a normal year, its not hard to imagine Pinelli shooting up draft boards. 23. , C, Oshawa Generals (OHL) on loan with KOOVEE U20 (U20 SM-sarja) When Harrison is on the ice, his feet seem to never stop moving as he drives the offensive or is racing to backcheck. Hes adjusting well to his Finnish league, playing at over a point-per-game pace. He has a physical edge to his game, but the hands and skill to be a threat in all situations. 24. , RW, Skelleftea J20 (J20 Nationell) From his high-end motor to his three-zone awarene s, Robert son has the adaptability to be effective no matter how hes utilized. Hes hard on the forecheck, agile on his feet, and an overall intelligent player, which explains how he got his first taste of the SHL at just 16 years old. 25. , D, HC Kometa Brno (Czech) Svozil has been making a name for himself in recent years at the international thanks to his fluid footwork and ability to read the play. If given an opening, Svozil can burn defenses an ability that he put on display at the 2021 World Juniors. He fits the mould of the new-age, mobile defender extremely well. NHL DRAFT STOCK WATCH: 26. , RW, Leksands (SHL) Getting a long look at the SHL level this season, Rosen has taken thisopportunity and run with it. An explosive skater, Rosen can blow past men in one of the best leagues of the world. Despite his smaller frame, theres no fear in his game, and hes always in the mix of things. He has promising ability in all three zones, which should translate well to Wayne Gretzky Jersey the next level. 27. , D, Loko Yaroslavl (MHL) Playing in the MHL, Lukashevich displays a uniquely advanced and mature game for his age. His defensive game is extremely impre sive, yet hes not afraid to jump up in the rush to create an offensive chance. He may not have one trait that stands out as elite, but hes a high-end, all-situations rearguard. 28. , RW, Kamloops Blazers (WHL) Another player that has yet to play a game this season, Stankovens 2019-20 season is enough to keep scouts excited. From his strong shot to his deceptive mobility, the Blazers forward is a play-driver. Seeing the strides that hes taken in the past year will be important to properly peg his projection down, but from what weve seen of Stankoven, hes a prospect with a lot to like. 29. , G, Sarnia Sting (OHL) Gaudreau is extremely athletic, and his rebound control and glove hand stand out as strengths. He always seems calm and collected between the pipes. Seeing multiple goaltenders hear their name called in the first round is rare, but if theres a year to do it, its 2021. 30. , LW, HV71 (SHL) With some strong showings in the SHL this season, Olau son has continued to rise up draft boards and garnered first-round discu sion. Hes a strong skater, utilizing cro sovers to navigate the neutral zone and enter the offensive zone. He oozes offensive talent from his pa sing to his shot and his ability to create space for him and his team. 31. , LW, Chicago Steel (USHL) If there is one player in this cla s, so far, who has done everything they need to do to put themselves on the map, Coronato takes the cake. His point production leads the league, and hes done it with a high-tempo game, excellent positioningand impre sive team support. MORE: 32. , G, Edmonton (WHL) A third goalie in 2021? It's not as crazy as it sounds. Co sa has yet to suit up this seasonbut was one of the WHL's best in 2019-20 with just six regulation lo ses on his resume. He's an imposing netminder who commands his crease and displays dynamic lateral movement. For FCHockey's full list of the top 100, . Josh Bell is a scout and the director of contentfor .
The hockey season is still young, but that hasn't stopped eyes drifting to the offseason and the 2021 NHL Draft. While the draft dates of July 23-24 are seeming le s Tomas Sandstrom Jersey and le s likely by the day, NHL teams and scouts are diligently working in preparation and this year, teams have their work cut out for them more than usual. Some playershave yet to play a single game. Those that are suiting up have seen regular stoppages to their season. And in manycases, scouts arent even allowed in the rinks. That's one obstacle.Another is simply making sense of this draft cla s. Unlike past years, there is no consensus No. 1 overall pick. There isnt even a consensus top-10. Add it all up and it'll lead up to a very intriguing draft day, whereas many as ten prospects could be the one to hear their name called first. , scoutspouredover tapes to build out how they would rank thetop prospects in the 2021 NHL Draft. NHL Draft 2021: Big board, player rankings 1. , D, US-NTDP (USHL) The third Hughes brother could very well be the second of the trio to hear his name called first overall. The left-handed defenseman is extremely mobilewith strong puck skills. One of the draft's youngest, Jack and Quinn's brother is just six days shy of being eligible for 2022. 2. , G, Lulea (SHL) While this cla s has been referred to as the "draft of the defender," dont sleep on this years goaltenders. Wallstedt, leading that charge, has taken on a starting role in the SHL and is putting up some of the best numbers in the league. His textbook skill matched with his poise put him in a cla s with Panthers prospect Spencer Knight and Predators future netminderYaroslav Askarov. 3. , D, University of Michigan (NCAA) When you combine Powers 6-5, 214-pound size with his surprisingly powerful skating, you get a player that will be hard to pa s up. A Hobey Baker nominee, he has had a strong freshman campaign for the Wolverines. 4. , D, Frolunda (SHL) Like Power, Edvin son is a tower on the back end, standing at 6-4, 185-pounds. Hes also a fluid skater that is agile on his feet. His vision of the ice and movement of the puck should see him as a strong, puck-moving defender at the next level. 5. , C, Djurgardens (SHL) Not only has Eklund carved out a top-six role with Djurgardens, but hes been a consistent producer on the team. His team play,offensive instincts andvision have thrust him into the conversation as a top-3 player in this cla s. 6. , D, Barrie Colts (OHL) on loan with HC Nove Zamky (Slovakia) With the uncertainty surrounding the OHL season, Clarke has taken his talents overseas to Slovakia where hes been settling in nicely against profe sional competition. Yet another smooth-skating defenseman with an ability to move the puck up James Patrick Jersey the ice in a hurry, Clarkes right-hand shot should be highly coveted come draft day. 7. , C, University of Michigan (NCAA) Beniers has been one of the hottest names when it comes to the 2021 draft. Hes exploded out of the gates in his NCAA careerand helped Team USA to a gold medal at the 2021 IIHF World Junior Championship. His elite competitivene s and two-way play have shot him to the top of this cla s. WJC 2021: 8. , LW, University of Michigan (NCAA) The most creative player in this cla s, Johnson is yet another Michigan Wolverine that has been capturing scouts' attention. His ability to move through traffic and create space for himself is second to none in this group and should go a long way to ensure his top-10 selection. 9. , LW, Edmonton Oil Kings (WHL) on loan with Sherwood Park Crusaders (AJHL) While some OHL and WHL players have found other countries to play in, Guenther stayed homein Canada and has played just four gamesthis season in the AJHL. Still, his strength, skating, and overall play make him one of the safest bets in the draft. 10. , LW, Leksands (SHL) If theres someone in this cla s to challenge Johnson when it comes to creativity, its Lysell. He never gives up on a play and is constantly pushing the pace. Lysell isable to create space for himself and his teammates and, on top of that his two-way game, is sneakily underrated. 11. , C, Karpat (Liiga) While Raty hasnt held on to the No. 1 consideration that he had entering the season, the center is still one of the best forwards in this cla s. His playmaking and puckhandling are high-end, and hes also had some looks at the Liiga level. Seeing how his development hasnt progre sed as expected has caused some pause, but there are still a fewintriguing tools in his box. 12. , C, Peterborough Petes (OHL) on loan with EHC Olten (Swi s League) McTavish has only just hit the ice overseas after waiting for the OHL season to begin, but the young prospect showed enough last season to showcase real potential. He never takes his foot off the gas, has quick edges and impre sive puck skills. Once he gets settled into his new surroundings, McTavishshould start to show his talent. 13. , C, Rimouski Oceanic (QMJHL) Bolducs patience on the ice could be a big reason why he gets drafted higher than expected once draft day rolls around. He exudes confidence, with good speed and a two-way ability to match. The centermancan find his way through defenses and stop offenses, making him a strong candidate for the top prospects out of the QMJHL. 14. , C, Halifax Mooseheads (QMJHL) LHeureux is a power forward through and through, who can utilize his strength to win battles and protect the puck. He has surprisingly soft hands for his style of play and a finishing ability that will catch attention. Hes got a bit of a mean streak that has led to two suspensions this season, but he could prove to be a serviceable forward at the next level. 15. , C, US-NTDP (USHL) While the COVID-19pandemic has been the main reason for most players Alexis Lafreniere Jersey to not skate thus far, Lucius has been dealing with a lower-body injury that has kept him out of the lineup. Similar to McTavish, his previous seasons largely weigh in on his ranking. Highlighted by arguably the best shot in this cla s, Lucius is an intelligent player who knows how to get to the net and get the puck over the goal line. 16. , D, Winnipeg Ice (WHL) on loan with JYP U20 (U20 SM-sarja) Another prospect that has gone overseas for ice time, Lambos hasnt had the easiest of adjustments to European play but hes been getting increased opportunities including playing in the Liiga. Hes a well-rounded rearguard that is very strong on his feet. 17. , D, Brooks Bandits (AJHL) Making the AJHL must-watch hockey for NHL scouts, Ceulemans hasnt hit the ice a whole lot due to the league not being able to get going. Hes played just two games this season, but between those and last year, theres no questioning that hes a man amongst boys. His physical presence and offensive prowe s put him head and shoulders above the competition. 18. , LW, Flint Firebirds (OHL) on loan with EHC Olten (Swi s League) Playing with McTavish in Switzerland, Othmann arrived with EHC Olten earlier than his OHL peer, allowing him time to settle in and excel in the league against men. His excellent shot is complementary to his competitivene s and fearle sne s making himnot an easy player to play against. 19. , C, Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL) transferred to Sioux Falls Stampede (USHL) Sillinger stayed in North America and simply headed south to the USHL to get in some game action. Hes quickly shown why hes such a dangerous player, showing off an elite shot, dangerous playmaking and skill with the puck. Hes one of the most offensively dynamic prospects in this cla s. MORE: 20. , RW, SKA-1946 (MHL) Seeing games in the MHL, VHL, and KHL this season, Chibrikov has catapulted over P.j. Stock Jersey his countrymen as the top Ru sian prospect in the cla s of 2021. A very strong skater with high-end playmaking, Chibrikov is relentle s on the puck carrier and always looking to get it to his team. 21. , C, Shawinigan Cataractes (QMJHL) An older player in this cla s, Bourgault has the confidence in his game to take control offensively, something that's been paying off for him in his three seasons in the QMJHL. He has a natural offensive abilitywith an impre sive shot and the skill to dish it out making his continued developmentpromising. 22. , C, Kitchener Rangers (OHL) on loan with HDD Jesenice (AlpsHL) Another OHL overseas loan, Pinelli is still getting situated in Slovenia. Between last season and his brief ice time this year, hes shown that hes a skilled, intelligent playmaker that has room to continue to improve. Light on his feet, he plays a very calm game with quick proce sing. In a normal year, its not hard to imagine Pinelli shooting up draft boards. 23. , C, Oshawa Generals (OHL) on loan with KOOVEE U20 (U20 SM-sarja) When Harrison is on the ice, his feet seem to never stop moving as he drives the offensive or is racing to backcheck. Hes adjusting well to his Finnish league, playing at over a point-per-game pace. He has a physical edge to his game, but the hands and skill to be a threat in all situations. 24. , RW, Skelleftea J20 (J20 Nationell) From his high-end motor to his three-zone awarene s, Robert son has the adaptability to be effective no matter how hes utilized. Hes hard on the forecheck, agile on his feet, and an overall intelligent player, which explains how he got his first taste of the SHL at just 16 years old. 25. , D, HC Kometa Brno (Czech) Svozil has been making a name for himself in recent years at the international thanks to his fluid footwork and ability to read the play. If given an opening, Svozil can burn defenses an ability that he put on display at the 2021 World Juniors. He fits the mould of the new-age, mobile defender extremely well. NHL DRAFT STOCK WATCH: 26. , RW, Leksands (SHL) Getting a long look at the SHL level this season, Rosen has taken thisopportunity and run with it. An explosive skater, Rosen can blow past men in one of the best leagues of the world. Despite his smaller frame, theres no fear in his game, and hes always in the mix of things. He has promising ability in all three zones, which should translate well to Wayne Gretzky Jersey the next level. 27. , D, Loko Yaroslavl (MHL) Playing in the MHL, Lukashevich displays a uniquely advanced and mature game for his age. His defensive game is extremely impre sive, yet hes not afraid to jump up in the rush to create an offensive chance. He may not have one trait that stands out as elite, but hes a high-end, all-situations rearguard. 28. , RW, Kamloops Blazers (WHL) Another player that has yet to play a game this season, Stankovens 2019-20 season is enough to keep scouts excited. From his strong shot to his deceptive mobility, the Blazers forward is a play-driver. Seeing the strides that hes taken in the past year will be important to properly peg his projection down, but from what weve seen of Stankoven, hes a prospect with a lot to like. 29. , G, Sarnia Sting (OHL) Gaudreau is extremely athletic, and his rebound control and glove hand stand out as strengths. He always seems calm and collected between the pipes. Seeing multiple goaltenders hear their name called in the first round is rare, but if theres a year to do it, its 2021. 30. , LW, HV71 (SHL) With some strong showings in the SHL this season, Olau son has continued to rise up draft boards and garnered first-round discu sion. Hes a strong skater, utilizing cro sovers to navigate the neutral zone and enter the offensive zone. He oozes offensive talent from his pa sing to his shot and his ability to create space for him and his team. 31. , LW, Chicago Steel (USHL) If there is one player in this cla s, so far, who has done everything they need to do to put themselves on the map, Coronato takes the cake. His point production leads the league, and hes done it with a high-tempo game, excellent positioningand impre sive team support. MORE: 32. , G, Edmonton (WHL) A third goalie in 2021? It's not as crazy as it sounds. Co sa has yet to suit up this seasonbut was one of the WHL's best in 2019-20 with just six regulation lo ses on his resume. He's an imposing netminder who commands his crease and displays dynamic lateral movement. For FCHockey's full list of the top 100, . Josh Bell is a scout and the director of contentfor .