3 Front Runners for the 2021 NHL Draft

 

The 2020 draft will be hard to top in both star power and depth, but one thing is different with the 2021 NHL draft, there is no real frontrunner. With the draft headlined with three players with no real lead for any of them, this could be a draft-day surprise. Ahead of the pack stands three players, Owen Power, Brandt Clarke, and Aatu Raty. They all have a superb chance to have their name called first on draft day.

Owen Power is a large frame defenceman playing out of the University of Michigan. Built as a 6’5 two-way defenceman who uses his physicality exceptionally well, Power has all the measurables to dominate the NHL. His offensive ability is also far above most others as he has recorded 4 points in 4 games at the highest level of junior play. Last year he played in the USHL putting up almost point per game numbers with 40 points in 45 games. The American is looking to go first overall and has a strong shot to do so. His most accurate comparison is Seth Jones of the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Brandt Clarke is a Canadian defenseman playing for the Barrie Colts in the OHL. Clarke had an exceptional rookie season in the highest level of the CHL putting up 38 points in 57 games. Standing 6’1 Clarke had NHL size and all-around ability. His offensive prowess is his desirable factor with precise passing and creative offensive plays. But his defence is no slouch, he can break up plays just as well as any other and he finds ways to help transition the puck. The main question mark is will he be able to play this year as his SHL contract was denied by the CHL and the CHL is unable to play currently and if they do body contact is illegal, which could hurt his stock significantly. NHL comparison Morgan Rielly.

Aatu Raty who was the projected first overall pick, but to no fault of his own has slipped down a few spots; this is due to other players elevating their game and Raty staying the same. Raty a Centerman is playing his first year in the Sweedish Hockey League which is considered the third-best league in the world. He has put up 2 points in 6 games, which is impressive considering his ice time and competition. He excels at both offence and defence this combined with his good work ethic and skating could result in him being the number one pick. He will need an impressive world junior to grasp the number one spot, but being the only forward that's capable of being the first pick, Raty could get rewarded with a center needy team. NHL comparison Bo Horvat.

Written By:Jackson Pitts