Islanders: 3 Blue Line Targets at the NHL Draft

Lian Bichsel

See the tallest dude in the picture? That's Bichsel standing at a whopping 6'5" and 216 pounds. He not only plays a big game, but he has some offensive prowess to match. He's already playing amongst men with Leksands SHL team so he's been accustomed to NHL-size players. He played for Switzerland's U18 team and was named one of their best player in the tournament.

Bichsel draws comparisons to K'Andre Miller of the New York Rangers:

"Bichsel’s physical tools are quite evident. He’s a 6-foot-5 defenseman who skates well for his size, is physical and has some offensive touch. He can carry and create through the neutral zone due to his feet and skills and shows some creativity from the offensive blue line. He has good hands but there isn’t much playmaking or poise in his puck play. Defensively he’s quite good due to his reach, feet and physicality. He closes gaps like a pro and can be trusted to play hard minutes as he advances levels. Bichsel projects as a top-four defenseman with the potential to play higher in a lineup if the offense translates."

- Corey Pronman

Because Bichsel may be able to make the jump to the NHL sooner rather than later, there's a chance the Islanders take him 13th overall.