[Jiri Hrdina]

I had a couple of long flights this week so used it as a chance to catch up on some draft content.
It seems to me that:
- The growing concerns about McKenna are legit. This is not the usual contrived effort to drum up some sort of debate about the #1 pick. I think his lack of effort, particularly off puck, is a growing red flag particularly when paired with the fact his offensive production has been a little disappointing. I also think a growing part of this story is the stakes for Penn State. If this guy, who has been the consensus #1 for a number of years, for whom this draft has long been considered "The Mckenna" draft does NOT go #1, it represents a major failure for Penn State and could impact recruitment. There are a lot of reasons why they need to do everything possible to make sure he holds on to #1. And with all that said, I think I still take him first, because the dynamic skill is just so unique. I think you hope you can address the other issues
- To me it's more clear than every that the Flames must draft in the top 4. McKenna is still my top choice but the next 3 are all compelling. Stenberg is producing at amazing level as a teen in the SHL. I think he's a top line winger in the NHL and a guy you can build around. Lawrence just hasn't played much but no one seems worried because he is so complete with no flaws. He may not be a top point producing #1 center in the NHL, but there is something compelling about running him and Reschney down the middle as a great all around 1-2 punch long-term. And then you have Verhoeff who is just the total package on the blueline and if you draft him, you are probably set up really well on the D for a decade.

Those are my 4. I would be thrilled with any of them. I probably lean forward based on what else the Flames have, but I think if you get any of those 4, you are adding a huge foundational piece.