New York Islanders 2018 NHL Mock Draft 1.0

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CHICAGO, IL – JUNE 24: Attendees react to a draft pick during the 2017 NHL Draft at the United Center on June 24, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) /

7. Noah Dobson (D) | Chicago Blackhawks

Acadie-Bathurst Titan, 6’3″ 179 lbs | 67 games, 69 points (17G, 52A)

Dobson is a talented two-way d-man that can be productive at both ends of the ice. One of his biggest pros is his size coming in at 6’3″. He can probably fill out a bit more, but that’s expected as he’s only 18-years-old.

One of his flaws is his closing speed, but that’s likely due to his size. He’s got great awareness in the offensive zone and knows when the perfect time to pinch in is.

He’s “rock solid” defensively which would be a great addition to the Blackhawks system here at seventh overall.

8. Evan Bouchard (D) | New York Rangers

London Knights, 6’2″, 192 lbs | 67 games, 87 points (25G, 62A)

If Bouchard is there for the Rangers, they’ll be jumping for joy. Bouchard is a puck moving defenseman with elite offensive skills.

Bouchard is known for his great vision and playmaking skills as shown by his 62 assists last year in the OHL.

The one knock on him is his average straight-line speed, but with the potential here offensively it’d be a great pick for the Rangers. His size is an intriguing sidebar as well.

9. Quinton Hughes (D) | Edmonton Oilers

Michigan, 5’10”, 174 LBS | 37 games, 29 points (5G, 24A)

Hughes is a very gifted skater and is someone who can handle the puck well. Some describe him as an elite defensive talent.

Hughes certainly makes his money with his speed. His speed in closing gaps actually causes people to forget about his offensive upside here.

The one complaint about Hughes is his size or lack thereof. At 174 pounds he can still fill out a bit more.