Even though I never pick the draft right, I always enjoy this draft blog. The Calgary Flames are poised to make an exciting selection this year. They will try their best to get another draft selection. There are rumors of Hanifin going, with 6-8 teams interested in acquiring him. Working the premise that there is only one draft pick in the first round, here is my choice. With only one first-round pick available, the Flames appear to have their sights set on dman David Reinbacher. But chances are he will be gone by the 16th pick, forcing the Flames to consider other options.
My picks:
First Round
16 Matthew Wood - Left Wing
Matthew is an intelligent player with soft hands with a great explosive shot. His greatest strength will be his one-timers. He will be an offensive weapon on the powerplay. Matthew is a silky-smooth forward with an impressive hockey IQ who will be dangerous in the offensive zone.
Second Round
48 Jesse Kiiskinen - Left Wing
Jesse is a highly skilled winger who plays a high-tempo game. He has excellent hands and skates like the wind. He is a gifted winger wi a good hockey IQ, although he could use some work to develop in the defensive zone. Jesse possesses excellent passing abilities with great vision. I hope the Flames grab this kid.
80 Third Round
Andrew Strathmann - Defense
Andrew is a talented D-man who is speedy, plays a rough game, and is not afraid to get his nose dirty. The Flames could use his durablity and his toughness. He has a good a shot and knows how to jump in to keep the puck in.
Fourth Round
112 Felix Unger Sörum - Left Wing
Felix is a talented winger with excellent skating skills. Despite his raw talent, most people feel he will need time to develop. If the Flames are willing to be patient, he could be a future star.
For the last two picks, I will list them without a write-up.
Sixth Round
177 Noah Chadwick - Defense
Seventh Round
207 Ty Halaburda - Left Wing
