The 2021 NHL Draft is right around the corner, and with it comes the usual flurry of excitement and speculation about who will be selected where. One of the most respected voices in the draft world is Steve Button, a renowned scout and analyst who has been covering the draft for years. Here's a breakdown of Button's top prospects for the 2021 draft:
Button's Top 5
- Owen Power (D) - A towering defenseman with incredible skating ability and puck-moving skills.
- Matthew Beniers (C) - A dynamic centerman who can control the pace of play and create scoring chances for his teammates.
- Luke Hughes (D) - Another highly skilled defenseman with a knack for making plays from the blue line.
- Dylan Guenther (RW) - A sniper with a lethal shot and a knack for finding the back of the net.
- Simon Edvinsson (D) - A big, mobile defenseman with a strong physical presence.
Other Notable Prospects
Button also has high marks for a number of other prospects, including:
- Kent Johnson (C) - A creative playmaker with excellent vision.
- William Eklund (LW) - A skilled forward with a quick release and a nose for the net.
- Cole Sillinger (C) - A powerful centerman with a good scoring touch.
- Jesper Wallstedt (G) - A talented goaltender with excellent puck-handling skills.
Button's Insights
Button has been known for his ability to identify future NHL stars, and his rankings for the 2021 draft reflect his deep knowledge of the game and his meticulous scouting process. He often emphasizes the following factors when evaluating prospects:
- Skating: Button believes that skating is the most important skill in hockey, and he looks for players with exceptional speed, agility, and balance.
- Hockey IQ: He places a high value on players who have a strong understanding of the game, can anticipate plays, and make smart decisions with the puck.
- Physicality: While not always the most important factor, Button acknowledges that physicality can be a valuable asset in the NHL.
Conclusion
The 2021 NHL Draft is shaping up to be an exciting one, and Button's rankings provide valuable insight into the top prospects in the class. Whether you're a fan of a particular team or just a general hockey enthusiast, be sure to check out Button's analysis and see which players he believes have the potential to make a significant impact at the NHL level.