2023 NHL Mock Draft: Breaking down five possible NY Islanders picks

4th Round (113)

Gabriel Szturc, C, Kelowna Rockets (WHL)

Following the trend of recent overage selections by the Islanders in the middle rounds, Gabriel Szturc is a 19-year-old out of Czechia, now playing major junior in Canada. Going undrafted in 2022 following a down season where he only totaled 41 points (16 goals, 25 points) with the Kelowna Rockets, Szturc returned this year with a bounce-back season, improving all aspects of his game.

In his second season in Kelowna, Szturc put up solid numbers, finishing with 79 points (24 goals, 55 assists) in 56 games. He was a member of Czechia's WJC team, finishing as his nation's second-leading scorer with eight points.

Szturc is proficient in all three zones, limiting his mistakes and positioning himself in advantageous positions to succeed. At 5'11", he works well with the puck on his stick in tight spaces but lacks that one superb quality. He is an average skater at best, has a good shot, and plays with a strong complete level. Nothing he does will blow you away, but he plays the game right. He projects as a bottom-six forward but looks to have what it takes to make it to the NHL.

Considered a bit of a reach in the fourth round, Szturc is ranked No. 220 by Central Scouting (NA skaters) but would be well worth the risk if Isles' scouts believe he is their guy.