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
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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2. Bode Wilde

2017-18 Team: US National U-18 Team, USDP
Date of Birth: Jan. 24, 2000 (18 years old)
Ht: 6’2″
Wt: 198
Position: Defenseman
Shoots: Right

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Bode Wilde is a player who covers all 200 feet of the ice, which the Colorado Avalanche prize. He’s known for being defensively responsible but also able to generate some offense.

What I like about Wilde is that he has some size an that he uses it to play a sometimes physical game. And he can play a shut-down role when needed.

This isn’t my favorite pick for the #16 spot. Indeed, while three mock drafts have him going right at the #16 selection, most have him lower. He is one of the players Hepple mentioned.

I think if the Avs choose Wilde, it will be with vision — because they know they already have several small, speedy, puck-moving defensemen.

Full Bode Wilde profile:

Related Story: Bode Wilde

Bode Wilde in action:

Side note: Bode Wilde was initially set to go to the University of Michigan, but, per Bob McKenzie, he has decided to see what pro options he has next season.

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