I didn't do nearly as much coverage as I had hoped I would for the NHL Draft and now Draft day has arrived. In the SB Nation mock draft we selected Dylan McIlrath, a big-bodied mean kid from Winnipeg. McIlrath has developed into quite the player and he might not last until 23 if teams are looking for a mean defenseman.
This seems like as good a time as any to give you a top five list of players I would take with the 23 pick if they are available. I will label them in order but please don't hold it against me, if I am incorrect. Last season we recommended Zack Kassian as the Sabres top pick and the Sabres brass came through, I find it unlikely they will do it two seasons in a row.
Top Five Choices at #23
- Dylan McIlrath - Defense (Moose Jaw Warriors)
- Austin Watson - Left Wing (Peterborough Petes)
- Riley Sheahan - Center (Notre Dame Fighting Irish)
- Tyler Pitlick - Center (Minnesota State)
- Jared Tinordi - Defense (U-18 USNTDP)
There is a slight chance that none of these players will be available when the Sabres select. Let me know your choices for the Buffalo Sabres and lets talk some hockey on a warm Friday night.
You can also follow along with our Buffalo Sabres draft tracker here.