I know there's a big divide between fans wanting the team to tank and fans wanting them to try run the table and squeek into the playoffs. But I think it's worth highlighting some of the players that will likely be available in the 14-20 range - let's be honest that seems the most likely draft spot for the Flames:
Matthew Wood, ranked at #18, guy is a 6'3 point per game rookie in the NCAA, Right Shot, RW, raised in Lethbridge.
Brayden Yager, ranked at #16, he's a Right Shot Center playing in the WHL, 70 points in 61 games so far, and some very solid scouting reports like this one from Bob Mackenzie: "The Moose Jaw Warrior centre has all the tools to be a well-rounded No. 1, at worst high-end No. 2, NHL centre who can impact the game in every way — offensively, defensively, goal scoring and playmaking"
Andrew Cristall ranked #10 by some, and ranked around #20 by others. He's a 5'10 and 165 pounds so definitely a smaller skilled option at LW but his scouting reports sound like a Gaudreau comparable - pass first guy with elite playmaking capabilities. Playing in Kelowna right now with 77 points (34 goals) in 45 games in the WHL.
There's many more prospects to highlight and I'm sure the summer is the best time to really get into all of it, but it gives me a bit more hope that the Flames will be basically guaranteed to get a high quality player wherever they draft this summer. So hopefully this helps some others that are struggling with the mediocrity of the Flames this season!
Since it's such a forward heavy draft though I would hope that they prioritize drafting a Center above all else and if Yager is available I'd be very happy to add him to the prospect pool.
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