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| Photo From: LINK |
With the fourth overall selection in the 2012 NHL Draft, the New York Islanders select:
Fall Picks (players who most likely will not be available at the time of the pick, but may slip):
Ryan Murray, D.
He could jump into the NHL next season without a problem. He plays a solid game from the back-end and is good in every facet of the game. He won't 'wow' you, but he has no weaknesses in his game. If he drops to the Islanders he would automatically become a top-four defenseman, and a future number one defenseman for the club.
Mikhail Grigorenko, C.
His talent level is incredible and his size is ideal, but his work-ethic has been questioned. For a team like the Islanders who value work-ethic and mental characteristics, that may be a red flag. However if he fell to the Islanders, I'd expect the Isles to seriously consider drafting him. He would be a terrific complement to John Tavares as he would take a spot centering the Isles 2nd line, making for a one-two punch that few other teams enjoy.
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Projectable Picks (players who will probably be available at the time of the pick, and are expected to go in that area):
Matt Dumba, D.
One of my favorite players in the entire draft. He plays a very exciting brand of hockey and has everything that is desired in a defenseman. As we saw in last year's playoffs, big hits can change the course of a game (& series) and Dumba is able to regularly deliver those type of bone-crushing hits. Along with his physicality, he is able to shut down opponents in one-on-one situations and in his own end. With the puck he also is able to make a successful first-pass, and produce points in the offensive zone. To top it all off, he has a very fluid stride that enables him to both join the rush and get back into position afterwards. He has been knocked for his discipline and positioning, but through the past few months he has really improved on both areas of his play. He probably won't be able to jump to the NHL next season, but within not too long he'll be a stud with what ever team picks him.
Jacob Trouba, D.
He has the ideal size for a defenseman, and he uses it perfectly. His long reach frequently comes in handy in his own end as his ability to get his blade into the passing lanes has been effective in shutting down the other team when they're cycling the puck. He also does a good job rubbing out opposing forwards, and dominating in the corners and in-front of the net. His grit and physicality is impressive, but it is his two-way game that really sets him apart. He has a certain poise and calmness in his puck-moving abilities that enable him to find the best possible pass option. For a guy as big as he is, his mobility is fantastic as well. Like Dumba he is also one of my favorites in the draft. Although he may be a few years away from making the NHL, once he does he'll be a force.
Alex Galchenyuk, C.
The American born Alex Galchenyuk, has a very impressive offensive skill-set. He has a great set of wheels and in general is an above-average skater. His stick handling is dazzling and he has the hands to be an offensive juggernaut at the NHL level. He also has an NHL level wrist shot that is also aided by a quick release. He has the commitment level and dedication that the Islanders seem to value in their draft selections. Had he been healthy all season he would have challenged Nail Yakupov as the draft's top prospect. Unfortunately he wasn't and his injury concerns are still a major red flag for NHL teams. He would be a good fit with the Islanders as he could either fit in as the Isles 2nd line center, or move to his secondary position of left wing and flank John Tavares.
Filip Forsberg, LW.
Has terrific upside that will make him one of the best players to come out of this draft. His combination of skill and speed is tantalizing. He skates extremely well and has the agility to maneuver through high traffic areas. Offensively he can do everything, make a beautiful pass, fire a snipe of a shot, or drive the net hard with the puck. His strength on the puck is very good as well, which when he fills out a bit will be a major part of his game. Along with his skill-set, his hockey sense helps him in every area of the ice. His offensive zone awareness is fantastic, but he also has a solid defensive zone awareness. I saw him more than once, rush an opposing defenseman up on the blue line, cause a turn-over and break up the ice on an odd man rush. He works very hard and has the character that teams like to see. He would be another really good fit on this Islanders club as he is a natural left winger and will be a top-line forward in a very little amount of time.
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MY PREDICTION:
The New York Islanders will select Mathew Dumba.
