2022 NHL Draft first-round results, analysis

The first round of the 2022 Upper Deck NHL Draft from Bell Centre in Montreal is over. The first round featured plenty of surprises and several trades. NHL.com deputy managing editor Adam Kimelman was in Montreal and provided a brief description and analysis of each pick.

1. Montreal Canadiens -- Juraj Slafkovsky, LW, TPS (FIN)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 1 (International skaters)

Slafkovsky had 10 points (five goals, five assists) in 31 games in Liiga, Finland's top professional league, but he really stood out on the international stage. He was named the most valuable player at the 2022 Beijing Olympics after scoring a tournament-best seven goals in seven games to help Slovakia win the bronze medal, its first men's Olympic hockey medal. His seven points tied for the tournament lead, and he led Slovakia with 24 shots on goal while averaging 15:50 of ice time despite being the youngest player in the tournament at 17 years old (he turned 18 on March 30). At the 2022 IIHF World Championship, Slafkovsky led eighth-place Slovakia with nine points (three goals, six assists) and 27 shots on goal in eight games, and his average ice time of 20:32 led Slovakia forwards. He puts his size (6-foot-4, 229 pounds) and reach to good use, acting as an effective checker in the offensive and defensive zone, according to director of NHL European Scouting Goran Stubb. He's also strong handling the puck and is not easily knocked off of it.

NHL.com analysis: The Canadians take arguably the most NHL-ready player in the 2022 Draft class. Slafkovsky already has excelled against older, more developed competition at the Olympics and the World Championship. Slafkovsky is big and skilled enough to step right into Montreal's top six and be a threat at 5-on-5 and on the power play.

2. New Jersey Devils -- Simon Nemec, D, Nitra (SVK)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 3 (International skaters)

Nemec (6-foot, 199) stood out playing against older competition in the top professional league Slovakia and internationally for Slovakia at the 2022 Beijing Olympics and the 2022 IIHF World Championship. His six points (one goal, five assists) in eight games at the Worlds are the most points ever for an 18-year-old defenseman at the tournament. Nemec is a mobile right-handed shot who is a skilled stickhandler and is effective on the power play. While he is not overly aggressive offensively, Nemec has high hockey IQ and is strong in transition.

NHL.com analysis: The Devils select arguably the top-rated defenseman available with Nemec. The right-handed shot has played in Slovakia's top league the past three seasons and said he'd like to play in the American Hockey League or the NHL next season. With Luke Hughes, the No. 4 pick of the 2021 NHL Draft and Nemec, New Jersey is stacking top defenseman prospects to go with their three young centers, Nico Hischier, Jack Hughes and Dawson Mercer.

3. Arizona Coyotes -- Logan Cooley, C, USA U-18 (NTDP)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 2 (North American skaters)

Cooley was second on the USA Hockey National Team Development Program Under-18 team with 75 points (27 goals, 48 assists) in 51 games, his average of 1.47 points per game was first, and he had had 20 points (eight goals, 12 assists) in 15 games against NCAA competition. The 18-year-old was second for the second-place United States at the 2022 IIHF Under-18 World Championship with 10 points (three goals, seven assists) in six games. Cooley, who has high-end compete and will deliver in the tough areas of the ice, will play at the University of Minnesota next season but believes he needs only one year at the collegiate level before making the jump to the NHL. Cooley (5-10, 180) is one of 60 players invited to the USA Hockey National Junior Evaluation Camp to compete for a spot on United States team for the 2022 and 2023 IIHF World Junior Championship.

NHL.com analysis: The Coyotes need top-end talent to invigorate an offensive attack that was last in the NHL this season with an average of 2.51 goals per game. Cooley has elite talent and speed, and the confidence to believe he'll be NHL-ready after one season at the University of Minnesota. With Cooley and Dylan Guenther, their first-round pick (No. 6) in the 2021 NHL Draft, as well as Clayton Keller, Nick Schmaltz and Barrett Hayton, the Coyotes are putting together the pieces of a future potent offense.

4. Seattle Kraken -- Shane Wright, C, Kingston (OHL)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 1 (North American skaters)

Wright (6-foot, 199) was eighth in the Ontario Hockey League with 94 points (32 goals, 62 assists), including 28 power-play points (eight goals, 20 assists), in 63 regular-season games, and had 14 points (three goals, 11 assists) in 11 playoff games. The 18-year-old had 18 games with at least three points. Wright has high-end playmaking skills and an accurate shot, and is exceptionally smart with and without the puck. Wright has been in the spotlight since he was 15, when he received exceptional-player status from Hockey Canada in March 2019 and then was selected by Kingston with the No. 1 pick of the 2019 OHL Draft. Wright was named OHL rookie of the year in 2019-20 after he had 66 points (29 goals, 39 assists) in 58 games. At the 2021 IIHF Under-18 World Championship, Wright led Canada with 14 points (nine goals, five assists) en route to a first-place finish, which laid the foundation for his strong draft-year season.

NHL.com analysis: The Kraken now have two foundational centers to build around in Wright and Matty Beniers, the No. 2 pick of the 2021 NHL Draft. Wright's all-around game, poise and high-end hockey IQ has earned comparisons to Boston Bruins star center Patrice Bergeron. Wright is skilled and mature enough to be in Seattle's opening-night lineup.

5. Philadelphia Flyers -- Cutter Gauthier, LW, USA U-18 (NTDP)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 3 (North American skaters)

Gauthier (6-2, 200) had 65 points (34 goals, 31 assists) and five power-play goals in 54 games for the USA Hockey National Team Development Program Under-18 team, including 16 points (10 goals, six assists) in 18 games against NCAA competition. He also had nine points (three goals, six assists) in six games to help the United States finish second at the 2022 IIHF Under-18 World Championship. The 18-year-old is considered a prototypical power forward with deceiving speed and a big shot. Gauthier uses his size to wreak havoc in front of the net, deflecting passes and causing issues for the opposing goalie. Committed to Boston College for next season, he said he expects to play center, adding versatility to his game.

NHL.com analysis: The Flyers were looking to add front-line depth, and in Gauthier they get a power forward with NHL size who played on the wing with the NTDP but will play center next season at Boston College. With his size and skill set, Gauthier could be ready as soon as the 2023-24 season to play a big role in Philadelphia.

6. Columbus Blue Jackets -- David Jiricek, D, Plzen (CZE)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 4 (International skaters)

Jiricek (6-3, 189) was out more than three months because of a knee injury sustained in December but had 11 points (five goals, six assists) in 29 games in the Czech Extraliga, the top professional league in the Czech Republic. The 18-year-old right-handed shot also had two points (one goal, one assist), three shots on goal, and averaged 10:26 of ice time in five games for third-place Czechia at the 2022 IIHF World Championship. Jiricek is a big, strong, offensive-minded defenseman with good vision and smarts who has a high compete level and utilizes his size and strength to be successful in all areas, according to NHL director of European Scouting Goran Stubb.

NHL.com analysis: With their first of two first-round selections, the Blue Jackets opt for a top-flight right-shot defenseman. Jiricek recovered well from a serious injury sustained in December to have an outstanding showing at the World Championship. Jiricek likely will need at least one more season in the Czech Republic but with his size and offensive skill set it won't be long before he takes a prominent role in Columbus.

7. Chicago Blackhawks (from Ottawa Senators) -- Kevin Korchinski, D, Seattle (WHL)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 7 (North American skaters)

Korchinski (6-2, 185) was fourth among Western Hockey League defensemen with 65 points (four goals, 61 assists), and third with 28 power-play assists, in 67 games. He is the first WHL defenseman since Darryl Sydor of Kamloops in 1989-90 (66 assists) to have 60 or more assists in his first year of NHL draft eligibility. Korchinski also led WHL defensemen with 19 points (six goals, 13 assists) in 25 playoff games to help Seattle reach the WHL final. The left-handed shot is creative with the puck and can play big minutes in all situations.

NHL.com analysis: The Blackhawks lacked a high-end offensive-minded defenseman prospect but filled that need with Korchinski in a selection acquired in the trade with the Ottawa Senators for forward Alex DeBrincat. Korchinski got better as the season went on, and played high-intensity games in helping Seattle reach the Western Hockey League finals.

8. Detroit Red Wings -- Marco Kasper, C, Rogle (SWE)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 5 (International skaters)

The Austria-born center had 11 points (seven goals, four assists) and averaged 11:44 of ice time in 46 regular-season games in the Swedish Hockey League, and had six points (three goals, three assists) in 14:16 of ice time in 13 playoff games. Kasper (6-1, 187) captained Austria at the 2022 IIHF World Junior Championship, playing two games before the tournament was postponed Dec. 29 because of COVID-19 concerns, and had two assists and averaged 17:34 in ice time in seven games for Austria at the 2022 IIHF World Championship. The 18-year-old plays with energy and intensity, has good speed and creates offensive chances by skating to the net. He's also a committed defensive player capable of using his stick to break up plays and being physical on the opposition.

NHL.com analysis: The Red Wings already are bearing the fruits of their smart drafting with defenseman Moritz Seider, the Calder Trophy winner as NHL rookie of the year, and forward Lucas Raymond, who was tied for second among rookies with 23 goals. Kasper excelled this season in the Swedish Hockey League, and projects as an athletic center who can play on either of the top two lines.

9. Buffalo Sabres -- Matthew Savoie, C, Winnipeg (WHL)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 4 (North American skaters)

Savoie (5-9, 170) is a strong skater with exceptional acceleration. The 18-year-old was seventh in the Western Hockey League with 90 points (35 goals, 55 assists) in 65 regular-season games and had 12 points (six goals, six assists) in 10 WHL playoff games. Savoie is considered a game-changer with high-end playmaking ability. His older brother is Edmonton Oilers forward prospect Carter Savoie.

NHL.com analysis: The Sabres look to be in good shape at defenseman with Owen Power and Rasmus Dahlin, so they can shift their focus to adding top-end forwards with the first of their three first-round picks. Savoie could be the best skater in this year's draft, and knows how to finish around the net. With forwards Jack Quinn and JJ Peterka looking to be ready to make the jump from prospect to NHL players, Savoie likely won't need long to join them in Buffalo.

10. Anaheim Ducks -- Pavel Mintyukov, D, Saginaw (OHL)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 6 (North American skaters)

Mintyukov (6-1, 194) was third among Ontario Hockey League defensemen with 62 points (17 goals, 45 assists) and was first with three shorthanded goals in 67 games, and was named to the OHL Third All-Star Team. The 18-year-old left-handed shot spent last season in North America despite not getting to play after the OHL canceled its season due to concerns surrounding the coronavirus but it allowed him to acclimate to life in North America. Mintyukov is an excellent skater who always looks to jump into the play in the offensive zone.

NHL.com analysis: After trading Hampus Lindholm to the Boston Bruins, the Ducks needed some depth at the position moving forward. Jamie Drysdale is developing into a No. 1 defenseman, and top prospect Olen Zellweger, voted the best defenseman in the Western Hockey League, could be ready to play in the NHL this season. But Mintyukov was too good a prospect for the Ducks to pass on with the first of their two first-round picks. He plays a high-risk game and is fearless jumping into the offensive zone, but his skating is so good it allows him to cover for any mistakes.

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11. Arizona Coyotes (from San Jose Sharks) -- Conor Geekie, C, Winnipeg (WHL)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 5 (North American skaters)

Geekie (6-3, 190) was fourth on Winnipeg with 70 points (24 goals, 46 assists) in 63 regular-season games and had 11 points (three goals, eight assists) in 15 Western Hockey League playoff games. The 18-year-old is hard to contain with his high compete level and poise in most situations. Geekie's hockey IQ combined with his top-end puck handling makes him one of the most elite playmakers in the draft, and he's always a threat to score at any point with his quick shot release. His older brother is Seattle Kraken forward Morgan Geekie.

NHL.com analysis: The Coyotes traded up with the San Jose Sharks to select Geekie, a power forward with the type of skill set Arizona has been lacking. Some scouts have questioned Geekie's skating, but most believe that as he fills out physically, his legs will get stronger and quicker.

12. Columbus Blue Jackets -- Denton Mateychuk, D, Moose Jaw (WHL)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 14 (North American skaters)

Mateychuk (5-10, 194) is regarded as a strong skater who can lead or join the rush for scoring opportunities and create chances with his ability to anticipate plays. The 17-year-old left-handed shot was third on Moose Jaw with 64 points (13 goals, 51 assists) in 65 regular-season games and was third for Moose Jaw in the Western Hockey League playoffs with 10 points (one goal, nine assists) in 10 games. Mateychuk also had one assist and a plus-2 rating as the captain for Team White in the CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game on March 23 in Kitchener, Ontario.

NHL.com analysis: The Blue Jackets kept their focus on defenseman with their second first-round pick. Mateychuk is an outstanding skater with a top-end offensive game. With David Jiricek on the right side and Mateychuk on the left, the Blue Jackets could have selected their top defensive pair for the next decade.

13. Chicago Blackhawks (from Montreal Canadiens) -- Frank Nazar, C, USA U-18 (NTDP)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 21 (North American skaters)

Nazar (5-10, 180) was third on the USA Hockey National Team Development Program Under-18 team with 70 points (28 goals, 42 assists) in 56 games, and had five power-play goals and two shorthanded goals. He also had nine points (three goals, six assists) in six games for the second-place United States at the 2022 IIHF Under-18 World Championship. The 18-year-old is at his best when he's competitive on the puck and using his elite speed. Nazar uses his top-end speed to make an impact in the defensive zone as well as in transition. He will play at the University of Michigan next season.

NHL.com analysis: The Blackhawks traded center Kirby Dach to the Montreal Canadiens for the right to select Nazar here. Speed is Nazar's top trait, and he's capable of using it to back off defenseman and create space for himself. With holes in the middle behind Johnathan Toews, Chicago likely will hope for Nazar to develop quickly at Michigan.

14. Winnipeg Jets -- Rutger McGroarty, RW, USA U-18 (NTDP)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 22 (North American skaters)

McGroarty (6-1, 204) was fourth on the USA Hockey National Team Development Program Under-18 team with 69 points (35 goals, 34 assists) and was third with six power-play goals in 54 games, and led the second-place United States with eight goals and 34 shots on goal in six games at the 2022 IIHF Under-18 World Championship. The 18-year-old also was named player of the game at the 2022 BioSteel All-American Game on Jan. 17. He is committed to play at the University of Michigan next season. Born in Lincoln, Nebraska, he is the second player born in the state to be selected in the NHL Draft, joining Pittsburgh Penguins forward Jake Guentzel (No. 77, 2013 NHL Draft).

NHL.com analysis: McGroarty has a very high upside. He only started hockey-specific training last summer and already has developed into a top-end power forward prospect. The fact that he naturally plays the right side also fills an area of need for the Jets, who didn't get much production from their right wings not named Blake Wheeler.

15. Vancouver Canucks -- Jonathan Lekkerimaki, RW, Djurgarden (SWE)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 6 (International skaters)

Lekkerimaki (5-10, 171), who missed a month of the season with mononucleosis, is a shoot-first forward who plays a two-way game and has good hands and explosiveness. The 17-year-old led all skaters at the 2022 Under-18 World Championship with 15 points and 10 assists for first-place Sweden, and had nine points (seven goals, two assists) in 26 games with Djurgarden of the Swedish Hockey League, the top professional men's league in Sweden.

NHL.com analysis: Lekkerimaki's shot is among the best in this year's draft class and his skating allows him to create space for himself to get it on net. He needs to get bigger and stronger, especially after missing time with mononucleosis. But with high-end forward depth already in Vancouver, the Canucks have the luxury of allowing Lekkerimaki develop at his own pace.

16. Buffalo Sabres (from Vegas Golden Knights) -- Noah Ostlund, C, Djurgarden Jr. (SWE-JR)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 18 (International skaters)

The left-shot center (5-10, 164), who is compared by some scouts to Nashville Predators forward Mikael Granlund, scored 42 points (nine goal, 33 assists) in 32 games in Sweden's junior division. He didn't record a point in 11 games in the Swedish Hockey League. Ostlund is a playmaker and finesse-type forward who skates with speed and mobility. He's intense and has good hockey IQ, according to Goran Stubb, NHL director of European Scouting.

NHL.com analysis: The Sabres select another undersized center with high-end skills in Ostlund. After taking Savoie at No. 9, in Ostlund they get a player with outstanding speed and puck skills. He'll likely have a bigger role in the Swedish Hockey League next season after playing 11 games with Djurgarden this season.

17. Nashville Predators -- Joakim Kemell, RW, JYP (FIN)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 2 (International skaters)

Kemell (5-9, 185) is a highly skilled playmaker capable of weaving his way through traffic and playing an effective two-way game. Playing most of this season as a 17-year-old (he turned 18 on April 27), he led under-18 players in Liiga, the top league in Finland, with 15 goals and 23 points in 39 games. It was the most goals and points by a player his age in Liiga since New York Rangers forward Kaapo Kakko had 22 goals and 38 points in 45 games in 2018-19. Kemell was out for almost three months in two different stretches because of a shoulder injury, but was healthy enough to lead Finland with six goals at the 2022 IIHF Under-18 World Championship.

NHL.com analysis: The Predators must have been a bit surprised that Kemell was still available for them at this spot. He was among the top scorers in Liiga as a 17-year-old until a shoulder injury sidelined him in November. Kemell is a dynamic scorer who only needs to get stronger, and projects as a top-line scoring threat at 5-on-5 and on the power play.

18. Dallas Stars -- Lian Bichsel, D, Leksand (SWE)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 9 (International skaters)

The Switzerland-born left-handed shot (6-foot-5, 225 pounds) uses his size to his advantage as he is difficult to take off the puck and plays a physical game whenever necessary. While Bichsel has a strong shot from the blue line, he is more of a pass-first player. The 18-year-old began the season with Leksand's team in Sweden's junior league but was promoted to the Swedish Hockey League, where he had three points (one goal, two assists) in 29 games and improved in all areas. Bichsel moves well for his size and plays a strong two-way game, according to NHL director of European Scouting Goran Stubb.

NHL.com analysis: The Stars arrived at the draft looking for a defenseman, and found a big one with big upside in Bichsel. He's got NHL-ready size and an offensive game that he should be able to develop with a full-time role in the Swedish Hockey League after playing 29 games there this season. With Miro Heiskanen the Stars' only defenseman younger than 30 years old assured of being on the roster next season and Dallas' top prospect at the position, 20-year-old Thomas Harley, ready to make the jump to full-time NHL player, Dallas needed to add young skill to their prospect base. But it might not be long before Bichsel is ready to make the jump to the NHL.

19. Minnesota Wild (from Los Angeles Kings) -- Liam Ohgren, LW, Djurgarden Jr. (SWE-JR)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 8 (International skaters)

Ohgren (6-1, 201) had 58 points (33 goals, 25 assists) in 30 games in Sweden's junior league and two points (one goal, one assist) in 25 games with Djurgarden in the Swedish Hockey League. At the 2022 IIHF Under-18 World Championship, he had nine points (three goals, six assists) in six games and was captain for Sweden, which won the tournament. The 18-year-old is considered an explosive skater with great acceleration and intensity, and his high hockey IQ and vision helps him read the play and set up teammates for scoring chances.

NHL.com analysis: With the pick they acquired for trading Kevin Fiala, the Wild find a wing with a similar offensive skill set. Minnesota drafted centers with their top two picks in the 2020 NHL Draft in Marco Rossi and Marat Khusnutdinov, now they find a talented wing for them to play with.

20. Washington Capitals -- Ivan Miroshnichenko, LW, Omsk Krylia (RUS-2)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 11 (International skaters)

Miroshnichenko (6-1, 185) was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma in February and missed the rest of the season to have cancer treatments. The 18-year-old had nine points (four goals, five assists) in five games as Russia's captain to help it win the 2021 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, and he had 16 points (10 goals, six assists) in 31 games in Russia's second division prior to his diagnosis. He resumed his hockey training in May, according to Central Scouting director Dan Marr. Miroshnichenko received his cancer treatment in Germany and was able to meet with NHL teams when they were there in April to watch the 2022 IIHF Under-18 World Championship. Born in Siberia, he moved to Moscow at a young age to play youth hockey. Miroshnichenko's shot, which many scouts believe is NHL ready, is his greatest asset. His speed is a big part of his game as well.

NHL.com analysis: Miroshnichenko began the season as a potential top-five pick, but his cancer diagnosis made him a question mark. The Capitals clearly were willing to take a risk on a player who if he gets back to where he was prior to his illness, plays a power forward style with the skill and creativity of a finesse-type player.

21. Pittsburgh Penguins -- Owen Pickering, D, Swift Current (WHL)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 15 (North American skaters)

Pickering (6-4, 180) led Swift Current defensemen with 33 points (nine goals, 24 assists) and 17 power-play points (four goals, 13 assists) in 62 games. He was named Western Hockey League Central Division Rookie of the Year and was made the Central Division Second All-Star Team. He also had two assists and was a plus-2 in four games for Canada at the 2022 IIHF Under-18 World Championship. The 18-year-old left-handed shot is a very good skater with room to add strength. He impressed scouts with how he handled heavy minutes on a team that had a minus-65 goal differential and finished 10th among 12 teams in the WHL Eastern Conference.

NHL.com analysis: The Penguins lack high-end defenseman prospects, making Pickering a smart selection. He got more ice time on a Swift Current team that struggled this season, but scouts were impressed by how he handled the adversity. He showed the foundation for a good all-around game that should only get better as he fills out physically and gets stronger.

22. Anaheim Ducks (from Boston Bruins) -- Nathan Gaucher, C, Quebec (QMJHL)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 16 (North American skaters)

Gaucher (6-3, 207) was third on Quebec with 57 points (31 goals, 26 assists), scored five power-play goals and was tied with three other players for the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League lead with five shorthanded goals in 66 games. He also won 59.2 percent of his face-offs. J-F Damphousse of NHL Central Scouting called the 18-year-old "the full package," and cited his strength in the offensive zone and his reliability at both ends of the ice as his top traits.

NHL.com analysis: After selecting Mintyukov at No. 10, the Ducks opt for a big center with an edge in Gaucher. As the Ducks move into a future without Ryan Getzlaf, having Gaucher and Mason McTavish, the No. 3 pick of the 2021 draft who announced the selection, the Ducks have built a strong foundation through the middle of the ice.

23. St. Louis Blues -- Jimmy Snuggerud, RW, USA U-18 (NTDP)

NHL Central Scouting: No. 11 (North American skaters)

Snuggerud (6-1, 188) made big strides in his skating this season and has exhibited the tools needed to become a top-six forward at the next level. He has an elite shot that makes him a threat from anywhere on the ice. Snuggerud was tied for sixth on the USA Hockey National Team Development Program Under-18 team with 63 points (24 goals, 39 assists) and was second with seven power-play goals in 59 games. The 18-year-old, who is committed to the University of Minnesota next season, had seven points (three goals, four assists) and one power-play goal in six games to help the United States finish second at the 2022 Under-18 World Championship.

NHL.com analysis: Adam Nightingale, who coached Snuggerud on the NTDP U-17 and U-18 team, called him the most improved player in his two seasons with the program. Snuggerud's shot is among the best in the draft class, and he's able to find space to get it on net quickly. Robert Thomas is the Blues' top young forward, and Jake Neighbours could join him in St. Louis as soon as next season after playing nine games this season. Snuggerud might not be far behind.

24. Minnesota Wild -- Danila Yurov, RW, Magnitogorsk (RUS)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 7 (International skaters)

Yurov is a smart, hardworking, two-way forward with good vision and compete level in all three zones. The 18-year-old (6-1, 178) had no points and averaged 4:36 of ice time in 21 games with Magnitogorsk in the Kontinental Hockey League. But playing against players his age in Russia's junior league he had 36 points (13 goals, 23 assists) in 23 games; his average of 1.57 points per game was fourth in the league (minimum 20 games). Yurov is good at winning loose pucks and is physically strong but not overly aggressive, and one scout compared his style of play to Hockey Hall of Famer Marian Hossa.

NHL.com analysis: The Wild add another skilled wing prospect to go with Ohgren. Yurov brings a high-end two-way game with great offensive instincts. Minnesota will have to be patient with Yurov, who will play at least one more season in the KHL. But the reward could be significant.

25. Chicago Blackhawks (from Toronto Maple Leafs) -- Sam Rinzel, D, Chaska (HIGH-MN)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 19 (North American skaters)

Rinzel (6-4, 180 pounds) had 38 points (nine goals, 29 assists) in 27 games as a high school junior and 10 points (two goals, eight assists) in 21 games with Waterloo in the United States Hockey League. The 18-year-old right-handed shot plans to play all of next season with Waterloo and is committed to play at the University of Minnesota in 2023-24. Rinzel makes a good first pass, has strong stick-defending skills and has high-end mobility with the puck on his stick, according to Greg Rajanen of Central Scouting, and is capable of jumping into the play in the offensive zone.

NHL.com analysis: After starting the day with no first-round picks, the Blackhawks make Rinzel their third first-day selection. Rinzel's size and strength stood out whether he was playing against high school competition or in the USHL. A right-handed shot, he could be the future defensive presence on a pair with Korchinski.

26. Montreal Canadiens (from Calgary Flames) -- Filip Mesar, RW, Poprad (SVK)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 20 (International skaters)

Mesar is an outstanding skater with a quick first stride and a willingness to drive to the net despite his small frame (5-9, 174). The 18-year-old began his season helping Slovakia finish second at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup with eight points (two goals, six assists) in five games. He then had 16 points (eight goals, eight assists) in 37 regular-season games in Slovakia's top professional men's league, and four points (three goals, one assist) in six playoff games. He played two games for Slovakia in the 2022 IIHF World Junior Championship before the tournament was postponed Dec. 29 due to concerns surrounding the coronavirus. Mesar could play another season in Slovakia or join Kitchener of the Ontario Hockey League, which has his Canadian Hockey League rights after selecting him with the No. 9 pick of the 2021 CHL import draft.

NHL.com analysis: After taking Slafkovsky at No. 2, the Canadiens select another skilled Slovakia-born wing in Mesar. Mesar will need more time to get bigger and stronger, but his ability to attack with speed in the offensive zone, and do it for the past two seasons on the top men's league in Slovakia, stood out to scouts.

27. San Jose Sharks (from Arizona Coyotes) -- Filip Bystedt, C, Linkoping Jr. (SWE-JR)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 17 (International skaters)

Bystedt had 49 points (16 goals, 33 assists) in Sweden's junior league, and the 18-year-old also had two points (one goal, one assist) in 15 games with Linkoping in the Swedish Hockey League. He capped his season with three points (two goals, one assist) in six games to help Sweden win the 2022 IIHF Under-18 World Championship. He has NHL-ready size (6-4, 204) with a good shot, and is expected to have a bigger role in the SHL next season.

NHL.com analysis: The Sharks traded back and selected a big center who skates well for his size and has good offensive instincts. San Jose has done well assembling forwards on the smaller side in William Eklund (5-11, 181), Thomas Bordeleau (5-10, 175) and Ozzy Wiesblatt (5-10, 183). Bystedt's size should provide a solid complement.

28. Buffalo Sabres (from Florida Panhters) -- Jiri Kulich, C, Karlovy Vary (CZREP)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 13 (International skaters)

Kulich (5-11, 178) interviewed with all 32 teams at the NHL Scouting Combine after his nine goals in six games for Czechia led all players in the 2022 IIHF Under-18 World Championship and he was named the tournament's most valuable player. The 18-year-old also had 14 points (nine goals, five assists) in 49 games for Karlovy Vary of Tipsport Extraliga, the top professional league in the Czech Republic; it was the most points by a player 18 or younger in the league since Carolina Hurricanes forward Martin Necas had 15 points (seven goals, eight assists) in 41 games in 2016-17. Kulich could play in the Extraliga next season, or with Cape Breton of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, which selected him with the No. 3 pick in the Canadian Hockey League import draft July 1.

NHL.com analysis: The Sabres select their third center of the first round in Kulich. His play at the Under-18 World Championship certainly stood out to scouts, and he interviewed with all 32 teams at the NHL Scouting Combine. Kulich's skating, hands and vision are his best assets.

29. Arizona Coyotes (from Edmonton Oilers) -- Maveric Lamoureux, D, Drummondville (QMJHL)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 20 (North American skaters)

The Coyotes move up three spots in a trade with the Oilers that includes Zack Kassian to make this pick. A strong skater with good mobility, Lamoureux (6-7, 199) had 24 points (four goals, 20 assists) in 54 regular-season games and one assist in four Quebec Major Junior Hockey League playoff games. The 18-year-old right-hand shot needs to fill out physically but has good defensive instincts, plays a physical game and can generate chances from the back end with good puck movement, Jean-Francois Damphousse of Central Scouting said.

NHL.com analysis: Players with Lamoureux's size and skill set are incredibly rare; he's only the third right-shot defenseman 6-7 or taller to be drafted, along with Tyler Myers (No. 12, 2008) and Kristian Kudroc (No. 28, 1999). He skates very well for his size, and is working with a nutritionist and trainer to add strength without losing the mobility and agility that makes him special. His physicality also gives the Coyotes an element missing among their defenseman prospects. With Cooley, Geekie and Lamoureux, the Coyotes added three top-end prospects to their pipeline.

30. Winnipeg Jets (from New York Rangers) -- Brad Lambert, C, Pelicans (FIN)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 10 (International skaters)

Lambert (6-foot, 183) had 10 points (four goals, six assists) while averaging 14:15 of ice time in 49 games with JYP and Pelicans in Liiga, the top professional league in Finland, and had no points while averaging 9:35 of ice time in three playoff games. The 18-year-old had five points (one goal, four assists) in two games for Finland at the 2022 IIHF World Junior Championship before the tournament was postponed Dec. 29 due to concerns surrounding the coronavirus. Lambert's skating and speed drive his offensive game. He can use it to back off defenders and his strong edge work allows him to quickly create room for himself to get his shot off. He could play another season in Finland or join Seattle of the Western Hockey League, which has his Canadian Hockey League rights.

NHL.com analysis: After taking a power forward in McGroarty at No. 14, the Jets add Lambert, who has the kind of skating that intimidates opposing players and allows him the time and space to utilize his vision and playmaking abilities. Though his stats might not stand out, some of that could be attributed to the number of times he's changed teams and levels of competition the past two seasons. But when playing against his own age group, Lambert has been a standout. There's a chance he'll get to do more of that if he joins Seattle, while also getting used to the smaller, North American ice.

31. Tampa Bay Lightning -- Isaac Howard, LW, USA U-18 (NTDP)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 9 (North American skaters)

Howard (5-10, 180) led the USA Hockey National Team Development Program Under-18 team with 82 points (33 goals, 49 assists) in 60 games, including a United States-best 11 points (six goals, five assists) to help the U.S. finish second at the 2022 IIHF Under-18 World Championship. Committed to play at the University of Minnesota Duluth next season, the 18-year-old is a goal-scorer who is most effective when he gets to the inside and is able to use his quick release on his shot. Despite being undersized, Howard still plays an aggressive game, has a knack for the net and is always willing to fight for the puck along the boards.

NHL.com analysis: Howard checks a lot of the boxes the Lightning look for in players with his skill, aggressiveness and competitiveness. Tampa Bay's top forwards remain in the prime of their careers, which will allow Howard to develop on his own timeline at Minnesota Duluth. But he projects as a top-six forward capable of creating offense from around the front of the net.

32. Edmonton Oilers (from Arizona Coyotes) -- Reid Schaefer, LW, Seattle (WHL)

NHL Central Scouting ranking: No. 31 (North American skaters)

Schaefer (6-3, 213) took advantage of greater responsibility and more ice time this season and had 58 points (32 goals, 26 assists) in 66 regular-season games and 21 points (six goals, 15 assists) in 25 Western Hockey League playoff games to help Seattle reach the WHL final; he had three assists in 25 games the previous two seasons. The 18-year-old power forward can play right or left wing, and plays in all situations.

NHL.com analysis: The Oilers moved back and were able to select Schaefer, a power forward whose great run in the WHL playoffs put him on the radar for a lot of teams. His size and strength makes him a threat around the net. He'll need more time to develop and continue to round out his skill set and improve his skating, but having big wings to open space for Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl certainly has to be appealing.

NHL.com staff writers Mike Morreale and Remy Mastey contributed to this report

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