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Originally Posted by 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 product #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.
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Curious to see what McKenna does at the World Juniors. For the last 3 World Juniors the number one pick (all on Team Canada) was also the best player on the world junior team. Does that trend continue this year. I think real questions will come up if at the World Juniors if Martone, Hage, Reschny and possibly others are the best forwards on the team. Should be able to dominate that tournament as a future number one draft pick.