What’s at stake in Saturday’s draft lottery?

A
dexterous and driven competitor that has all the makings of a dynamic
two-way winger. Not the most electric skater, but is shifty and plays to
the extent of his physical capabilities; he knows his limits and plays
within them, which facilitates a student-like approach to the growth of
his game. Possesses high hockey-IQ and is consistent in his efforts. Not
the most physical player, but is when he needs to be. All-in-all,
Dubois is an invaluable all-around player who plays in all situations
and exceeds expectations when the opportunity arises.

An
unyielding two-way defenceman, Jakob Chychrun is a rising star with a
toolbox bursting at the seams. Consistently displays elite four-way
skating ability and is not afraid to throw his weight around physically.
Plays with poise and composure through high pressure situations and,
with the puck on his stick, can direct the play up-ice. Exhibits a
particularly potent shot that works its magic on the power play and on
the forecheck. Excellent first pass and uses his vision and awareness to
keep the puck moving in the direction of the opposition’s tail or to a
teammate with more time and space. Defensively adept at tracking the
puck and staying a step ahead of the opposition. Proactive with his
stick and body, exerting pressure on the opposition and forcing them to
make hurried decisions. All-in-all, a well-rounded two-way defender
that competes with pro-level drive and makes his authoritative presence
felt at both ends of the ice.

The son or former NHLer Michael Nylander, Alexander is a dynamic skating offensive catalyst that just produces points. His skating can go from effortless to shifty as he has the ability to use his edges to deke or juke through traffic with ease. Possesses soft hands and very creative puck skills plus the ability to make his teammates better with some jaw dropping passes. He is not a one trick pony however as he can also finish off plays. Top line NHL potential.

Puljujärvi
is a big winger who combines size, skating and skill. A strong skater
who can blast past the opposition in full speed. Able to use his size,
reach and stickhandling skills to retain the puck in speed. A smart
player at both ends of the ice, both on and off the puck. Great work
ethic and positive attitude. More of a playmaker than a scorer and could
improve his shooting skills. Doesn’t shy away from physical play, but
could use his size more to his benefit.

A
natural scorer, Laine’s greatest asset is his intimidating shot. He’s
not a speedy skater, but possesses power and a long stride, and protects
the puck well with his large frame and longer stick. Overall, skating
has been a minor issue through Laine’s development but has improved with
some help from his ability to read the game. Laine has the hunger to
create chances on his own from the wing and actively looks for and
creates opportunities to use his shot. His elite wrist shot is notable
for its quick release and his powerful one-timer from the top of the
circle is a constant threat on the man-advantage.

A
high octane dynamo that thrives under the microscope, Auston Matthews
is a complete offensive forward who consistently boasts quick hands,
feet, and thinking at both ends of the ice. Naturally nimble skater that
accelerates to top speed very quickly. An unwavering focus on fine
tuning elements of his own game facilitates confidence and competence in
his young, but mature, mind. Prolific goal scoring ability and doesn’t
wait for opportunities to show themselves. He makes his own luck, so to
speak, maximizing the use of his body and stick to gain leverage against
the toughest of opponents. All-in-all, a generational talent that has
the potential to develop into a top flight franchise center.

A
competitive spark-plug, Olli Juolevi is a complete, all-around
defenceman that can hem the opposition in their own end or make things
difficult for the opposition at home; either way, he puts the pressure
on and lays it on thick. A strong and balanced skater, he can rush the
puck through the neutral zone with ease or backcheck with haste. Uses
his size to his advantage, but knows his physical limits and plays
within them. Instead of playing overly physical, he makes his presence
felt by exhibiting his high-end playmaking ability and puck possession
play. All-in-all, a well-rounded blueliner who thrives under pressure
and can be trusted in all situations.