Colorado Avalanche: 3 Center Choices for the First Round

GATINEAU, CANADA - DECEMBER 1: Joe Veleno #9 of the Saint John Sea Dogs skates against the Gatineau Olympiques on December 1, 2017 at Robert Guertin Arena in Gatineau, Quebec, Canada. (Photo by Francois Laplante/Freestyle Photography/Getty Images)
GATINEAU, CANADA - DECEMBER 1: Joe Veleno #9 of the Saint John Sea Dogs skates against the Gatineau Olympiques on December 1, 2017 at Robert Guertin Arena in Gatineau, Quebec, Canada. (Photo by Francois Laplante/Freestyle Photography/Getty Images)
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3. Isac Lundestrom

2017-18 Team: Lulea, Liiga
Date of Birth: November 6, 1999 (18 years old)
Height: 6’0″
Weight: 185 pounds
Position: Center
Shoots: Left

Ranked #22 by HOCKEYPROSPECT.COM
Ranked #21 by FUTURE CONSIDERATIONS
Ranked #20 by ISS HOCKEY
Ranked #19 by MCKEEN’S HOCKEY
Ranked #21 by TSN
Ranked #8 by NHL CENTRAL SCOUTING (EU Skaters)

Isac Lundestrom isn’t exactly a stretch at the #16 position, but he’s dangerously close. He’s a responsible player who can flash some brilliance and skate with power. However, he’s ultimately a safe forward. And you hope for a little more at the #16 position.

To elaborate, Isac Lundestrom is a smart, two way player who can make decisions at high speed. He shows creativity and the pucks skills to back it up. What’s more, he’s got good size, and he’s surprisingly physical for a European skater.

All in all, Lundestrom would be a fine pick at #16. However, you would think there would be some other “best available” players still waiting to hear their name called at #16.

Next: Round 1 Mock Draft

The 2018 NHL Draft takes place in Dallas. Round one is June 22, coverage starting at 5:30 PM MT.