The NHL receives an influx of young talent beginning today with the 2023 NHL Draft. Some of the best prospects in the sport of hockey expect to hear their names over the next two days. 

While Connor Bedard will very likely hear his name first when the Chicago Blackhawks make their selection, the rest of the first round is full of impactful prospects and intrigue. 

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2023 NHL Draft Superlatives: What Connor Bedard, Matvei Michkov Are Best At

2023 NHL Mock Draft 2.0: Predicting All 64 Picks In First Two Rounds

With Bedard and Adam Fantilli headlining the rookie class, the hopes of several franchises will hinge on Wednesday’s first round picks. 

Who will those teams pick? Follow the 2023 NHL Draft live here with breakdowns of each pick, breaking news updates and analysis from the FloHockey staff. 

No. 32 Vegas Golden Knights Select: David Edstrom, C

Scouting Report

A big center with skill, David Edstrom was my best available player at No. 23 on the FloHockey Top 100. Edstrom is a player with a massive ceiling. He has tremendous upside thanks to his size, skating ability and skill. As a center who can move, he's got a chance to be a long-term middle-six center who provides scoring depth and makes those around him better. As he adds more edge to his game, he could be a force as a power center with the skating he has.

Instant Analysis

The Vegas Golden Knights won a Stanley Cup by being big, mean and skilled throughout their lineup. Edstrom fits that mold to a certain extent. He certainly has a lot of qualities they value. Now Vegas tends not to hang on to first-round picks, but this is one that could make a big time impact down the line. He is a developmental project, but the kind every team is eager to work with. I'm surprised he made it to this point going unselected, but I'm sure Vegas is absolutely thrilled.

No. 31 Colorado Avalanche Select: Mikhail Gulyayev, D

Scouting Report

A high-end offensive defenseman who can skate, Mikhail Gulyayev checked in at No. 33 on FloHockey's Top 100. On skill, he's one of the more exciting defensemen in the draft because he can be shifty, he makes plays and he has electric skating ability. Everything he does is done at a high pace. He's a bit undersized, but he's also an exceptional offensive performer having averaged better than a point per game in Russia's top junior league this year. The question of if he can defend at an NHL level is a real one, but he has so many exciting qualities.

Instant Analysis

The Avs built a Stanley Cup champion with an electric D corps highlighted by Cale Makar. Having another great skater like Gulyayev is a big add. It's going to be a few years before he can come to the NHL, but the foundation of skills he has is so enticing. I am surprised we saw four Russian players go in the first round, but it's clear they have a lot to like for teams to ignore any associated risk. 

No. 30 Carolina Hurricanes Select: Bradly Nadeau, LW

Scouting Report

One of the best pure shooters in the draft outside of Connor Bedard, Nadeau checked in at No. 39 on FloHockey's Top 100. He has high-end skill and can score. One of the best shooters off the past, Nadeau scored a boatload of points in the BCHL with Penticton with 100 points. He is slated to go to the University of Maine next year and should play a significant role there. This guy has a nose for the net and he competes. Will he provide a ton of off-puck value? Probably not, but if you want a guy that can score, he's got that locked down.

Instant Analysis

The Hurricanes are never shy about size and they got a 5-10 sniper. There's a good organizational fit as he can help this team with the pace and the skill. I think there were better pro projected prospects available, but I also really came around on Nadeau throughout the year and cannot wait to see him in college hockey. Maine is bringing in one of their best recruiting classes in more than a decade and he's at the center of it.

No. 29 St. Louis Blues Select: Theo Lindstein, D

Scouting Report

Theo Lindstein is a solid defender who was ranked 36th on FloHockey's Top 100. Lindstein is a high end defender who played massive minutes for Sweden at the U18 Worlds and saw a lot of top lines. There is very limited offensive pop to his game, which is why I did not view him as a first-round talent. That said, he's going to play a big role for Sweden at next year's World Juniors. He is a leader and he plays with a high motor and compete level. He logged 32 appearances in Sweden's top level this year, which speaks to the maturity in his game and his defensive responsibility. 

Instant Analysis

The Blues bet big on offense with their first two picks, they address an organizational need with Lindstein. They needed more on the blue line and Lindstein fits that. He was my second best defenseman available. Is it a reach? Maybe a little, but not a big one. The Blues have a player who projects comfortably into the NHL. Whether he is a top-four guy or a bottom-pairing guy is a real question. There's plenty of time to sort that out, but there's also no doubt that Lindstein has some pro habits to his defensive game and should be effective.

No. 28 Toronto Maple Leafs Select: Easton Cowan, RW

Scouting Report

The Maple Leafs went a little off the board with my No. 70 ranked prospect for the Top 100. What I will say, however, is that Cowan was a big time performer in the second half and throughout the playoffs for London. There was a lot of buzz lately that Cowan was on the rise and teams really liked him based on his postseason performance and how his game grew over the year. He has offensive potential, but doesn't have much in the way of size. He certainly competes.

Instant Analysis

I am not as surprised about Cowan going in the first round as I would have been a few months ago. There has been plenty of buzz about him and teams liked him a lot. They liked his character, they liked the way he progressed over the season and they liked his character. The Leafs are getting a higher-compete player with skill. I think there were players with higher ceilings available, but Toronto got the guy they wanted. Time will tell how this one looks. I think it's a reach, but I'm also intrigued by his improved play all throughout the year.

No. 27 Colorado Avalanche Select: Calum Ritchie, C

Scouting Report

Calum Ritchie was my best available player at No. 18 on the FloHockey Top 100. He played through a torn labrum this season, which may have held him back. Additionally, Oshawa struggled as a team. So the numbers weren't where the expectations were. He doesn't necessarily blow you away with any one trait, but he does give you size and scoring ability. I think he's a better player than his numbers suggested this year and if he finds that consistency next year, he's right back on track.

Instant Analysis

The Colorado Avalanche made some key trades and still have another first-round pick. Getting my best forward available, they get bigger up front and have a talent that we might not have seen at his best this year. There's a lot to like about his game and how he fits with Colorado long term. We'll see where he's at when playing at 100% again.

No. 26 San Jose Sharks Select: Quentin Musty, LW

Scouting Report

Quentin Musty is one of the higher-end offensive players still on the board and was ranked No. 32 on FloHockey's Top 100. He had a 47-point improvement from his rookie OHL season after dedicating himself to add more dimensions to his offensive game. He became more of a shot-pass threat and started making better plays overall. He has size, he can drive the net and he can make plays in tight. His skating is only OK and there are times where he won't wow you with his games. But Musty has a lot of potential thanks to that size and skill combo that so many teams covet.

Instant Analysis

The Sharks landed one of the most dynamic playmakers in the draft in Will Smith at No. 4 and they only enhance their future forward group with Musty. He wasn't my best player available, but he definitely fits in with where the Sharks are going. They are getting more skilled and Musty has some dynamic elements on his best nights. He's still a bit more of a longer-term project, but he has a lot of pro traits that will be great for the Sharks to start working on with him as he enhances his development further in the OHL.

No. 25 St. Louis Blues Select: Otto Stenberg, LW

Scouting Report

A quick, competitive forward with some speed, Otto Stenberg was ranked 22nd on FloHockey's Top 100. He was exceptional at the World U18 Championship, leading Sweden to a silver medal with a highly-productive tournament. He didn't dominate at the U20 level at home in Sweden as much, but he definitely had a lot of tools. His ability to get behind and around defenders and make good reads in the offensive zone makes him a scoring threat. He isn't overly big, but he competes and never stops his feet.

Instant Analysis

The Blues have two outstanding young offensive players in their system now with Dvorsky and Stenberg. They're getting more skilled, they're getting quicker, they're also getting two high-end competitors who can play off the puck. The Blues are getting some guys that are probably don't have stars that they've drafted, but they have some guys that are going to complement what they have right now.

No. 24 Nashville Predators Select: Tanner Molendyk, D

Scouting Report

A special skater from the back end, Tanner Molendyk was listed No. 27 on FloHockey's Top 100. The skating is truly elite as he has good speed, excellent edges and changes directions as well as any blueliner in this draft. That allows him to defend the rush at a high level and recover when he's caught up ice. Offensively, I think there needs to be a little more to feel like he can be a true offensive defenseman, but I see really good two-way ability. He's not a big guy, but he's competitive and aggressive. 

Instant Analysis

My best remaining defenseman on the board, the Preds passed up some high-end offensive talents, but I think they have to really like what they're getting in Molendyk. You watch him and he jumps off the ice because of how incredible that skating ability is. The way he plays is a good fit for the style that the Preds want to play. They're going to need to be a fast, attacking team in the coming years and a guy like Molendyk helps them do that.

No. 23 New York Rangers Select: Gabe Perreault, LW

Scouting Report

One of the smartest players in the draft, Gabe Perreault was my best remaining player on the board at No. 11. He set a single-season record for points at the NTDP with 132 -- besting the previous mark set by Auston Matthews who had 117 at the same age. Perreault is an elite playmaker who finds ways to get pucks to his teammates in so many ways. I had him as the best passer in this draft and think that he could be feeding high-end goal scorers. For being such a good playmaker, he does have a great shot and his awareness is so special that he always makes the right decisions with the puck.

Instant Analysis

The Rangers got my best player available and I'm surprised he fell this far. His offensive capabilities are high end, though his skating will need to come along. He's going to probably spend two to three years at Boston College as he gains strength and continues to develop physically, but the high-end offensive potential here was impossible for the Rangers to pass up.

No. 22 Philadelphia Flyers Select: Oliver Bonk, D

Scouting Report

Oliver Bonk is one of the best remaining defenseman on the board at this point and came in at No. 26 on FloHockey's Top 100. Bonk's game really grew throughout the year. He is a true two-way defenseman though I would say he lacks high-end offensive traits. Bonk moves pucks, has a good shot and is aggressive in the offensive zone. Defensively, I have no concerns. He has size, strength and loves to be a thorn in the side of opposing forwards. He knows what he is as a player and plays to his identity.

Instant Analysis

Danny Briere took the big swing on Michkov and now they go a little safer with Bonk, who fits the identity of the team and is a legit two-way talent. If he brings out more offense in his game, this pick only looks better. There's a lot of projecting with Bonk and I think after watching him from the start of the year to the finish, his development is well on its way. He could be a top-four defenseman, though I think he might be closer to a four. Either way, a top-four defenseman within the top 25 is certainly a valuable pick.

No. 21 Minnesota Wild Select: Charlie Stramel, C

Scouting Report

Charlie Stramel came in at No. 29 on FloHockey's Top 100. He has a ton of upside because of his size, strength and skating. I do have concerns about his hockey sense, but I think he does have compete, physicality and he can move. The versatility he brings is probably going to be more important than his scoring potential, but if you look at his entire body of work, he's shown flashes of offensive prowess. Stramel is a project, but he's the kind of player that can help you win in the toughest parts of the season. Also, I don't think this season was the full picture of this player as Wisconsin really struggled and that's not something that was on him.

Instant Analysis

The Minnesota Wild nab another Minnesota native in Stramel who makes them bigger, more physical and still provides some offensive value. I think Stramel could be in for a massive sophomore campaign at Wisconsin after an up-and-down freshman year. He is a two-time invite to Team USA at the World Juniors and helped the team win bronze as a lead penalty killer at the last WJC. The Wild have a lot of higher-end skill, but Stramel gives them some braun. I think if he can process the game offensively a little better, this pick will only look better with time.

No. 20 Seattle Kraken Select: Eduard Sale, LW

Scouting Report

Eduard Sale was the No. 21-ranked prospect on the FloHockey Top 100. He came into this season looking like a top-10 pick, but he had an underwhelming season. There is no question he has skill and can make a lot of plays. He has vision and understands how to navigate the offensive zone. Playing in the Czech pro league, young players don't produce at a high level and he didn't really. That said, there's still a ton of upside. One of the concerns about his game is that his compete level is in and out. He can be a top-of-the-lineup winger if everything comes together, but there's going to be some risk there.

Instant Analysis

Seattle chief scout Robert Kron is a Czech native and is among the most talented European scouts in the game today. If he is putting his stamp of approval on this player, that says a lot about him. Sale has top-six potential thanks to his skill and offensive awareness. He has to get stronger and keep that motor running more consistently, but he has so much to like about his game offensively that you take the swing there. There's some risk, but this is a great range to take a chance on a playmaker like him.

No. 19 Chicago Blackhawks Select: Oliver Moore, C

Scouting Report

The best skater in the 2023 NHL Draft, Oliver Moore came in at No. 12 in the FloHockey Top 100. His speed is special and that's going to be a weapon in the NHL where speed kills. He's an exceptional transition player and gets blue line to blue line as fast as anybody. His puck skills are strong, but he still needs to process the game better at the speed he plays at. I think his brain will catch up to his feet. More than anything, though, he has versatility and plays hard off the puck. He has a good shot, can make plays and gets to the middle well. He's the kind of player you always have to be aware of.

Instant Analysis

The Blackhawks now have two natural centers out of this class. Neither are big, but they got the best shooter in the draft and the best skater in the draft. Players that have special traits like that are going to find a way to make an impact. Moore is going to make the Blackhawks faster, while also taking some of the defensive burden off of whatever line Connor Bedard is on. Moore was a second-line center at Team USA this year and may be at the NHL as well. The speed he has is a rare commodity and could make him an impact NHLer in maybe two to three years.

No. 18 Winnipeg Jets Select: Colby Barlow, LW

Scouting Report

Colby Barlow is a burly winger who has a tremendous shot, which put him at No. 15 on FloHockey's Top 100. Barlow has one of the better shots in this class and topped 40 goals in the OHL this season. There are some average elements to his game, particularly his skating, but he leads with power and creates space with good hands. His release is exceptional and the shot is heavy. He was the captain for Owen Sound this year and is an exceptionally mature teenager. If there is a concern about him, he might not have as high a ceiling as other prospects. He's more physically developed than most his age and may not grow a ton. That said, he has a really high floor.

Instant Analysis

The Jets need scoring help and they're getting it with Barlow. He also plays a heavier game which is something some of Winnipeg's more recent draft picks do not. So there's a little more variety and value that he provides their prospect system. Additionally, Barlow could be a future captain of this team. The leadership and character that you hear about him from others lets you know that he's a special young man. It also doesn't hurt that he's a Canadian kid and the Jets need players that want to be with them for the long term.

No. 17 Detroit Red Wings Select: Axel Sandin Pellikka, D

Scouting Report

Axel Sandin Pellikka was the No. 2 defenseman on FloHockey's Top 100, coming in at No. 16 overall. He is a two-way defenseman who moves pucks well and is among the better offensive-minded blueliners in this class. ASP is a transporter in that he can skate pucks out or deliver them expertly to teammates. He was an underage defenseman on Sweden's World Junior team and became their No. 1 D in terms of minutes. Playing professionally this year, he was challenged physically as he is a 5-11 defenseman. His ability to aid his team's puck possession is special as he holds pucks and makes plays with such poise. He doesn't have dynamic puck skills, but he has great touch on the puck and makes high-end decisions.

Instant Analysis

Shocker: The Detroit Red Wings draft a Swedish defenseman. In all seriousness, a right-shot puckmover is a great fit for them long term. ASP will be playing for Skelleftea next year in the SHL and probably will need some time in the AHL before he's NHL ready. The Red Wings are always patient with prospects and they should be with Sandin Pellikka as well. But with Moritz Seider and Simon Edvinsson already on their blue line, getting a top four that includes ASP seems like they're getting set up for the long-term here. His maturity surely had to speak to the Red Wings.

No. 16 Calgary Flames Select: Samuel Honzek, LW

Scouting Report

Size and skill come with Samuel Honzek, who was ranked 19th on FloHockey's Top 100. A big player who can drive the net and make plays in the middle, he has good hands and can finish. An injury derailed him a bit this year, but he came back strong and made a lot of plays. He will play with more power as he grows into his frame. He's not amazing at any one thing, but he's good at a lot of things which matters, especially when you can bring a near 6-foot-4 frame to the table. He could be a middle-six scoring winger.

Instant Analysis

The Calgary Flames are about to enter a different phase as a franchise. They're not quite rebuilding, but they're definitely restructuring. New GM Craig Conroy gets a pick that brings some scoring talent and size to the table as the Flames try to keep pace with some of the top-tier teams in the NHL in the Pacific. Honzek is probably two years away, but the growth he has shown season over season is really exciting. I think the upside here is going to be worth waiting for, so long as Honzek hits and gets a little more size to him.

No. 15 Nashville Predators Select: Matthew Wood, C/W

Scouting Report

Matthew Wood was the No. 7 prospect on FloHockey's Top 100 thanks to his high-end scoring ability. With size and power, Wood can make plays with soft hands and a big shot. He was near a point per game at UConn and then was a dominant player at the U18 Men's World Championship for Team Canada. He scored some big goals and made some heady plays. Wood is not a great skater, which he is going to have to work on. But he always finds himself in the right spots to be dangerous. Offensively, he has so much to offer and could be a top-six goal scorer. 

Instant Analysis

The Predators get bigger and are adding a big scoring talent here. The Preds can always use more skill and Wood has plenty of it. He is a shooter, but has really rounded out his playmaking ability and shows good touch on the puck. In the rough-and-tumble West, the Preds are going to have a huge benefit in Wood making plays near the net.

No. 14 Pittsburgh Penguins Select: Brayden Yager, C

Scouting Report

Brayden Yager is a high-end offensive talent who came in at No. 14 on FloHockey's Top 100. He has a great shot and can play a lot of different ways. He's not altogether big or strong, but he competes and he can skate well enough. He has a nose for the net and though his goal scoring numbers dipped this year, he is likely to surge in that category next season. He has good hands and at least commits himself to playing off the puck. There's a lot of offensive upside here.

Instant Analysis

The Penguins need everything and getting a skilled center like Yager now gives them the No. 1 prospect in their system. I thought we might see them go with one of the Americans in Gabe Perreault or Oliver Moore as good fits, but Yager makes a ton of sense. The Penguins just need bodies at this point and when you can increase your scoring potential that's a great step in the right direction.

No. 13 Buffalo Sabres Select: Zach Benson, LW

Scouting Report

Zach Benson is one of the fiercest competitors in the draft and even though he's undersized, he brings it every game. Benson came in at No. 8 on the FloHockey Top 100 thanks to that high-end compete level combined with elite hockey sense and tremendous playmaking ability. He had 98 points for the Winnipeg ICE and was one of the top players in the WHL. He is so good at stripping pucks off of opposing players and making dangerous plays quickly. he processes the game at a high level. At 5-foot-9 his skating could be a concern, but his hockey sense and compete level could overtake that.

Instant Analysis

The Buffalo Sabres are loaded and they have the ability to take chances. Benson's size is a concern, but the Sabres have plenty of size in their lineup to insulate him. You wouldn't want a team full of Benson's size, but you'd love every guy on your team to play like him. He is one of my favorites in this class and the Sabres can allow him to continue to develop at his pace as they take more steps towards being a regular competitive team again.

No. 12 Arizona Coyotes Select: Daniil But, LW

Scouting Report

Daniil But is one of the most fascinating players in the draft and was ranked No. 20 on FloHockey's Top 100 rankings. He has one of the highest ceilings in this draft as a 6-foot-5 forward with tremendous skill and an elite shot. He moves well, but isn't fast. But can play in the hard areas, but he also makes space with his puck skills and he has creativity. I sometimes worry about his pace and processing the game at an NHL level, which is why I had him a little lower, but there's no question that his skill level gives him a chance to be a special player if he hits on that vast potential of his.

Instant Analysis

The Coyotes are showing that they are not afraid of anything at this draft. They took two Russians with high picks which assumes so much risk and also does not likely get you these players particularly soon. That said, neither Simashev or But are under as long a contract as Michkov and we'll have to see how receptive they are to coming to North America to start in the AHL, which is likely where they should start. But has a massive ceiling thanks to his rare combination of size and high-end skill. It's a swing, but if both of these players hit, the Coyotes could have integral pieces to their core.

No. 11 Vancouver Canucks Select: Tom Willander, D

Scouting Report

Tom Willander, ranked No. 17 on our final Top 100, is one of the draft's best defenders. He has great gap control and skates at a high-end level. He has speed, he closes on opposing forwards quickly and is a bear to play against in the defensive zone. His offensive upside is limited, but he moves pucks well up the ice and can skate pucks out of trouble. He won't put up big numbers, but he can play matchups and shut down opposing teams' top offensive players. 

Instant Analysis

The Canucks have been looking for good right-shot defensemen for some time and now they have one in Willander who is a high-end defender. He fits so well into their D corps and while he doesn't excite you offensively, he brings a lot of tools that fit in the modern NHL. The Canucks have plenty of holes to plug, but the right side on their defense was a gaping void. That's no corrected with Willander who should be a high-minutes blueliner for them. Were there better forwards available? Yes, which is why there may be some handwringing about this pick, but even though I had Willander 17th, I like the player an awful lot. He is slated to attend Boston University next fall.

No. 10 St. Louis Blues Select: Dalibor Dvorsky, C

Scouting Report

Dalibor Dvorsky came in at No. 9 on the FloHockey Top 100. He is a scoring center with two-way value. He didn't produce at a high level in Sweden this year, but he showed well internationally, especially at the World U18 Championship. He is a high-compete player who can get after it defensively. He makes plays all over the ice and has a high-end shot. As he gets stronger, he is going to be a good two-way pivot who could project as a strong No. 2 center. He has some heaviness in his game to go along with his skill, which could make him a versatile force later in his career.

Instant Analysis

The Blues may have been surprised to see Dvorsky in this slot. I had mocked Danielson to them because I thought Dvorsky would be gone. The Blues are in a semi-retool right now and are going to need long-term centers. The Slovakian talent has progressed his game in so many ways and has a lot of upside. He is going to need more time, but is heading to the SHL next season. That's going to push him to be better and elevate his game. The Blues probably will have to wait two to three years before Dvorsky is fully ready, but he's taking positive steps. 

No. 9 Detroit Red Wings Select: Nate Danielson, C

Scouting Report

Nate Danielson is a rangy two-way center who came it at No. 13 on FloHockey's Top 100. He has skill, moves pucks well and can get to the net. He has a nice shot, too. Danielson has good effort off the puck and can make plays to the interior. He was on a weaker team so his offensive numbers don't pop. He doesn't have that dynamic skillset that gets you out of your seat, but he is efficient and he competes. He could top out as a No. 2 center if everything goes right.

Instant Analysis

The Red Wings are getting stronger down the middle after addressing wings and defense more recently. He has a lot of potential to make an impact in about two years as a middle-six center but could round out into a strong No. 2 option behind Dylan Larkin should he hit all the right benchmarks. His two-way play is definitely bringing enhanced value to the Red Wings. He isn't an exciting pick, but he's one that feels like he's going to play and potentially play a bigger role on a team that is taking a few more steps in the right direction.

No. 8 Washington Capitals Select: Ryan Leonard, RW

Scouting Report

Ryan Leonard is a 6-foot power forward who can score. He was ranked No. 6 on our top 100 and is one of the top-10's most versatile players. He is physical, plays quick and is difficult to move off the puck. Pound for pound, he may be the strongest player in the draft. Leonard also has higher-end skill which allows him to get to the interior, beat defenders one-on-one and create space for himself. But he also has the power to get through defenders when he needs to. Leonard had 51 goals this season including the U18 World Championship game-winner that gave the U.S. the gold. 

Instant Analysis

The Capitals had an easy decision with the best player available on the board. Leonard is going to give them a good dose of scoring help and physicality. They can let him go to Boston College for a year or two to develop and round out his game more. He is a legitimate scoring threat, but also has that dose of nastiness NHL teams need come playoff time. The Caps are going to be moving into a new era sooner than later and Leonard could be a key piece of that.

No. 7 Philadelphia Flyers Select: Matvei Michkov, RW

Scouting Report

One of the most exceptionally skilled players in the draft, Matvei Michkov was ranked No. 4 on the Top 100, but easily could have been No. 2. The Russian factor and some risks had me drop him down a few spots, but he is a game-breaker. He is one of the best goal scoring talents and prospects we've seen come out of Russia since Alex Ovechkin. He's undersized and his skating is not high-end, but he has the best hockey sense I've ever tracked. I've described Michkov as a hockey genius. He sees the game in a way we don't.

Instant Analysis

The Flyers were rumored to favor Michkov and that they may have even considered trading up. They didn't have to. Now the Flyers have one of the most electrifying players not currently in the NHL. He is under contract for three more seasons, but the Flyers are in a bit of a rebuild. They don't need him yet and he wouldn't be in the NHL for at least two years anyway. At worst, they miss one season of legitimate NHL service time. There are a lot of variables in the world that create risk in this pick, but a new regime in Philadelphia just put their stamp on their future with one of the most exciting talents we've seen slip this far into the top 10. 

No. 6 Arizona Coyotes Select: Dmitri Simashev, D

Scouting Report

Dmitri Simashev was No. 28 on our Top 100, but that had a lot more to do with the Russian factor and the uncertainty surrounding Russians because of geo-political issues. Simashev is a 6-foot-4 defenseman who defends at a high level and skates extremely well. His offensive upside is limited as I don't think he'll be a big point producer which gives me concern about his long-term projection and if he can be a top-pairing defenseman. His ability to defend though is exceptional. He has so many skills that will allow him to play at a high level and play a lot of minutes, but if he adds more offense, he'll be even better.

Instant Analysis

This was a shock. The fact that Matvei Michkov was not the first Russian off the board is stunning. The fact that Simashev went in the top 10 is kind of stunning too. Many NHL teams felt he very well could be the best defenseman in the draft on talent. I had enough concerns about the offense that I didn't think that was the swing to take. The Coyotes, however, have an absolute need for defenseman. Simashev absolutely helps them there. They have another pick at No. 12 which gave them authority to swing. I still am stunned by this and will look forward to seeing it play out. I thought Simashev could be there at 12 still, but that also was no guarantee. Arizona took the guy they wanted. 

No. 5 Montreal Canadiens Select: David Reinbacher D

Scouting Report

David Reinbacher was the consensus top defenseman in this draft and was listed No. 10 on FloHockey's draft rankings. He is a mobile, right-shot defenseman with good offensive skill and some solid defending. Reinbacher does a lot of things well with the puck on his stick, but his mobility is probably even more important. He played in Switzerland's top pro league last year and had one of the most productive seasons ever for a draft-eligible blueliner in that league. At the World Championship and World Juniors, the Austrian stood out. He probably does not have a long timeline to reach the NHL after playing pro this year.

Instant Analysis

The rumors suggested the Habs were going to go with a defenseman or possibly a burly winger. They went defenseman. Reinbacher fills an organizational need and likely becomes the anchor of a blue line that is still growing. The Habs have a lot of younger guys that you wouldn't view as clear top-pairing options. Reinbacher projects as no worse than a top-four defenseman with top-pairing traits. He's going to be a difference-maker in their system and while I think the forwards available would have helped as much or maybe some would help more, Reinbacher is a clear organizational fit for Montreal.

No. 4 San Jose Sharks Select: Will Smith, C

Scouting Report

Will Smith was the No. 5 prospect on FloHockey's 2023 NHL Draft Rankings. He is one of the most dynamic players in this draft class. With high-end hockey sense and vision, eh's an elite playmaker who can drive play. He still needs to strengthen his game off the puck, but when he's on the ice, he has the puck a ton. He had 127 points at the NTDP, which topped Auston Matthews and finished just behind linemate Gabe Perreault for the record in single-season scoring. He also was the MVP of the 2023 U18 World Men's Championship after putting up 20 points. He is headed to Boston College next year.

Instant Analysis

The San Jose Sharks get a dynamic play-driving center who can play at the top of their lineup. Smith is going to be a guy who can facilitate a lot of things offensively for them going forward. He projects as a No. 1 center who should score a lot. He's a legit shot-pass threat who always seems to make the right play. 

No. 3 Columbus Blue Jackets Select: Adam Fantilli, C

Scouting Report

Adam Fantilli was FloHockey's No. 2 prospect. A two-way center with high-end offense, aggressive physical play and speed, Fantilli projects to be a No. 1 center at the NHL level. He won the Hobey Baker Award as college hockey's best player with the highest points-per-game average for a freshman since Paul Kariya. He has great hands, but that physical, abrasive game he plays is going to make him a top-end playoff performer. 

Instant Analysis

The Columbus Blue Jackets have been looking for a player like this for as long as they've existed. Adam Fantilli is a special player and has so many things to offer. He should be able to play for the Blue Jackets as soon as next season, though going back to Michigan is still a consideration. Fantilli has pedigree, he has star power and he looks ready to be a superstar in the league. This was a very easy decision for Columbus when Anaheim went with Carlsson.

No. 2 Anaheim Ducks Select: Leo Carlsson, C

Scouting Report

Leo Carlsson, FloHockey's No. 3 prospect, is a big center with extreme intelligence and high-end skills. He plays the game cerebrally and puts himself in the right positions a lot. His foot speed isn't as strong as some of the other players, but he makes up for it with good anticipation and positioning. He played mostly on the wing this year, but should be a good two-way center. His size gives him a lot of advantage, but Carlsson has great touch. He projects as a No. 1 center if he hits all benchmarks.

Instant Analysis

Up until today, I would have told you this is a huge surprise. It seemed like the Ducks would lean towards Adam Fantilli, but on the draft floor the buzz about the Ducks going Carlsson was deafening. If there's one advantage Carlsson has over Fantilli is his hockey sense. He thinks the game at such a high level. You can't really go wrong with any of the remaining centers. Carlsson isn't as mean or physical as Fantilli, but his offensive game is certainly comparable and he'll fit right in with their future. The Ducks have built a strong foundation down the middle of their lineup at center, they have a great group of young defensemen, so they're well on their way. Carlsson showed at the Men's World Championship he is close to NHL ready, but may need another year overseas. We'll see how the Ducks feel.

No. 1 Chicago Blackhawks Select: Connor Bedard, C

Scouting Report

The No. 1 prospect from wire to wire this season, Bedard possesses an elite level of skill and is one of the best pure shooters we've seen come through the draft. Thanks to elite hockey sense and tremendous hands, Bedard scores at will. He had 71 goals in the WHL this season and posted 143 points with the Regina Pats. He has a high-end motor and engages physically despite not being a big player. While generational prospect may be too lofty a title, generational scorer might be apt. He's probably the best goal scorer we've seen come through the NHL Draft since Alex Ovechkin. He has the chance to change a franchise's future.

Instant Analysis

The Chicago Blackhawks had an easy decision. They get their No. 1 center for the foreseeable future as they move on from the Stanley Cup core once and for all. The team now has its long-term face of the franchise and can continue to build around him for years to come. While he won't immediately change the Blackhawks' fortune, Bedard does provide rocket fuel to their rebuild. Chicago has added some veterans to insulate their future superstar, most notably Taylor Hall, who can help usher Bedard into the league more favorably. 

READ: Connor Bedard Had A Season For The Ages

What Makes Connor Bedard The Top NHL Draft Prospect In 2023?

There’s not much more that needs to be said that hasn’t been said already. Bedard is an offensive dynamo with a competitive drive and high hockey IQ. He already owns one of the most devastating shots in hockey – not just among the draft class, but anywhere. His ability to score goals is unmatched in this class and there's a reasonable expectation he will make an immediate offensive impact in the NHL.

Read a breakdown of all the top 100 prospects on FloHockey

Matvei Michkov Impressed In Interviews With NHL Teams

The biggest wild card of the draft is Russian goal-scoring sensation Matvei Michkov. On talent, you could make a case that he's the second best player available, but there are a number of complicating factors that could see him fall lower in the top 10.

Read More NHL Draft Buzz On Matvei Michkov, Anaheim Ducks and Trades

Who were the Last 5 NHL Draft No.1 Picks?

Connor Bedard is likely to join a list of talented former No.1 picks. Here are the last 5 No.1 picks. 

• 2022: Juraj Slafkovsky, Montreal Canadiens
• 2021: Owen Power, Buffalo Sabres
• 2020: Alexis Lafrenière, New York Rangers
• 2019: Jack Hughes, New Jersey Devils
• 2018: Rasmus Dahlin, Buffalo Sabres

Read More About The Last 10 No.1 NHL Draft Picks

2023 NHL Mock Draft Latest

The latest FloHockey mock draft has Connor Bedard going No.1 to the Chicago Blackhawks. 

Here’s the top three picks according to the latest mock draft: 

1. Chicago Blackhawks: Connor Bedard, C, Regina Pats
2. Anaheim Ducks: Adam Fantilli, C, Michigan
3. Columbus Blue Jackets: Will Smith, C, U.S. National Under-18 Team

More 2023 NHL Draft Coverage: Mock Draft 1.0 | Chris Peters' Top 100 Prospects

Nashville Is Hosting The 2023 NHL Draft. Who Is Hosting the 2024 NHL Draft?

The NHL Draft, like the NFL and MLB drafts, are now done on location and Nashville, home of the Predators, is hosting this year. In 2022, Montreal hosted the draft in the Belle Center for the first on-location draft. 

The 2024 NHL draft location has not been announced yet. 

2023 NHL Draft Order 

Here is the first round draft order

1. Chicago
2. Anaheim
3. Columbus
4. San Jose
5. Montreal
6. Arizona
7. Philadelphia
8. Washington
9. Detroit
10. St. Louis
11. Vancouver
12. Arizona (from Ottowa)
13. Buffalo
14. Pittsburgh
15. Nashville
16. Calgary
17. Detroit (from New York)
18. Winnipeg
19. Chicago (from Tampa Bay) 
20. Seattle
21. Minnesota
22. Philadelphia (from Los Angeles) 
23. NY Rangers
24. Nashville (from Edmonton)
25. St. Louis (from Toronto)
26. San Jose (From New Jersey)
27. Colorado
28. Toronto (From Boston)
29. St. Louis (From Dallas)
30. Carolina
31. Montreal (from Florida) 
32. Vegas

What Time Is The NHL Draft Tonight

The NHL Draft begins at 7 p.m. EST from Nashville, Tennessee. 

What Channel Is the NHL Draft On Tonight?

The NHL Draft is on ESPN and ESPN+.