Colorado Avalanche: 3 Defenseman Choices for the First Round

PLYMOUTH, MI - FEBRUARY 16: Bode Wilde #15 of the USA Nationals body checks Pavel Rotenburg #10 of the Russian Nationals during the 2018 Under-18 Five Nations Tournament game at USA Hockey Arena on February 16, 2018 in Plymouth, Michigan. USA defeated Russia 5-4. (Photo by Dave Reginek/Getty Images)*** Local Caption *** Bode Wilde; Pavel Rotenburg /

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1. Ty Smith

2017-18 Team: Spokane Chiefs (WHL)
Date of Birth: Mar. 24, 2000 (18 years old)
Ht: 5’10″
Wt: 175pounds
Position: Defenseman
Shoots: Left

Ranked #14 by HOCKEYPROSPECT.COM

Ranked #9 by FUTURE CONSIDERATIONS

Ranked #19 by ISS HOCKEY

Ranked #16 by MCKEEN’S HOCKEY

Ranked #13 by TSN

Ranked #14 by NHL CENTRAL SCOUTING (NA Skaters)

Actually, Ty Smith isn’t listed on Hepple’s list, and I’m not sure why. It could be that the organization doesn’t want anyone to know of their interest in him in order to avoid another Miro Heiskenan situation.

Because Smith is right up the Avalanche’s alley. He’s a speedy, puck-moving defenseman who thinks the game fast. And he has elite puck skills. He’s even been touted as the best prospect coming out of the WHL this year.

Mock drafts have him going as high as 12 or as low as 22. As a prospect, he’s ranked right in the Colorado Avalanche’s range, and no lower thatn #19. That’s why he would be my first pick for a defenseman for the Avs to choose.

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