With the 2023 NHL Draft rapidly approaching, it's time to take a look at the top prospects available and which teams are likely to select them. This mock draft will project the first 10 picks of the draft, based on player potential, team needs, and recent draft trends.
NHL Mock Draft 2023- 3/28
#1 Connor Bedard, F, Regina (WHL) San Jose Sharks
Connor Bedard is an elite talent and the clear front-runner for the 2023 NHL Draft. His dynamic playmaking abilities, high hockey IQ, and exceptional scoring touch makes him a game-changer. Given his potential to become a franchise player, the San Jose Sharks would be wise to select Bedard first overall.
#2 Adam Fantilli, F, University of Michigan (NCAA) Columbus Blue Jackets
Adam Fantilli is a highly skilled and versatile player, known for his exceptional offensive abilities and the versatility to play in all situations. His size and strength allows him to dominate puck battles, while his creativity and vision makes him a threat in the offensive zone. The Columbus Blue Jackets would benefit from his skillset.
#3 Leo Carlsson, F, Orebro HK (SHL) Chicago Blackhawks
Leo Carlsson is a highly skilled forward with excellent offensive instincts, speed, and a strong two-way game. His ability to create plays, finish scoring chances, and contribute defensively make him a valuable asset. The Chicago Blackhawks would benefit from his skillset and potential.
#4 Will Smith, F, USNTDP Anaheim Ducks
Will Smith is a highly skilled forward with exceptional speed, agility, and a high hockey IQ. His ability to create scoring chances with his excellent vision, stickhandling skills, and shots make him a game-changer. The Anaheim Ducks would benefit from his dynamic offensive abilities. He also has the potential to become a top-line player.
#5 Oliver Moore, F, USNTDP Montreal Canadiens
Oliver Moore is a dynamic forward with excellent skating abilities, speed, and a nose for the net. His ability to create offense in tight spaces, finish scoring chances, and contribute defensively make him a well-rounded player. The Montreal Canadiens would benefit from his skillset and potential to become a top-six forward in the future.
#6 Eduard Sale, F, Brno (CZK) Arizona Coyotes
Eduard Sale is a talented forward with excellent offensive skills, including quick releases, accurate shooting, and playmaking abilities. His ability to read the game, anticipate plays, and create scoring chances make him a valuable asset. The Arizona Coyotes, in particular, could benefit from his scoring touch and potential to become a top-six forward in the NHL.
#7 Matvei Michkov, F, HK Sochi (KHL) Philadelphia Flyers
Despite announcing that he will remain in Russia for next season, the Flyers would be crazy to pass on Michkov. Matvei Michkov is an elite offensive talent with incredible scoring abilities, including a deadly shot and exceptional hands. His quick acceleration, high hockey IQ, and creativity make him a game-changer. The Flyers could benefit from his dynamic offensive skills and potential to become a top player in the NHL.
#8 Zach Benson, F, Winnipeg (WHL) Detroit Red Wings
Benson probably won’t fall this far, but the Red Wings will gladly take the talented forward. Benson has excellent skating abilities. His ability to create plays with his vision and stickhandling skills, finish scoring chances, and play a responsible defensive game makes him a well-rounded player. The Detroit Red Wings, in particular, could benefit from his skillset and potential.
#9 Dalibor Dvorsky, F, AIK (SHL) St. Louis Blues
Dalibor Dvorsky is a dynamic forward with excellent speed, agility, and a high hockey IQ. His ability to create offense with his vision, playmaking skills, and scoring touch make him a game-changer. The St. Louis Blues, in particular, could benefit from his offensive abilities and potential to become a top-six forward in the NHL.
#10 Andrew Cristall, F, Kelowna (WHL) Vancouver Canucks
Andrew Cristall is a skilled forward with excellent hands, quickness, and a high hockey IQ. His ability to create scoring chances, finish plays, and play a responsible defensive game make him a valuable asset. The Vancouver Canucks will absolutely benefit from his skillset and potential to become a top-six forward in the NHL as they rebuild for the future.