The final lists of top North American skaters, North American goaltenders, International skaters, and International goaltenders were released by NHL Central Scouting on Monday morning.
The four lists are supposed to be an indication of draft projection for the 2019 NHL Draft that takes place June 21-22 in Vancouver, British Columbia.
To the surprise of no one, USA Hockey NTDP U-18 center Jack Hughes was rated as the top North American skater while Finland’s Kaapo Kakko was the top International skater. The duo are projected to go first and second overall in the draft.
The 2019 NHL Draft is slated to be one of the best ever for American players. In addition to Hughes, at least seven other players from the United States are expected to be selected in the draft’s first round.
