2024 NHL Mock Draft 8.0: Final Edition Picks 1-65

Zack Cook
Host · Writer
65. Brodie Ziemer (F) - Utah
Utah concludes the second round of the 2024 NHL Draft by selecting Brodie Ziemer, a player whose competitive spirit and skills align with what Utah seeks in a supportive role.
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1. Macklin Celebrini (F) - San Jose Sharks
The decision is clear for the San Jose Sharks. After winning the top pick at the draft lottery, they draft Macklin Celebrini to be the new face of their franchise. Celebrini, widely considered the top prospect in this draft class, provides the Sharks with the crucial player needed to propel their rebuild forward. No brainer.
2. Artyom Levshunov (D) - Chicago Blackhawks
The NHL Scouting Combine was filled with discussions about the Chicago Blackhawks' strong interest in Artyom Levshunov. With the second overall pick, the Blackhawks are set to acquire a future top-pair defenseman, addressing a critical need in their lineup. While there's genuine talk about Ivan Demidov, Chicago ultimately chooses their future #1 defenseman.
3. Anton Silayev (D) - Anaheim Ducks
Anton Silayev's skill set is undeniably remarkable. With Pat Verbeek at the helm in Anaheim, it's no surprise he might select this towering defenseman known for his elite skating ability. The challenge will be unlocking Silayev's offensive potential. There's also real chatter Beckett Sennecke is in play here.
4. Cayden Lindstrom (F) - Columbus Blue Jackets
Concerns about Cayden Lindstrom's history of back injuries are genuine. However, with more information released ahead of the draft, it seems this will not be an issue moving forward, despite the unpredictability of back problems. The Columbus Blue Jackets are excited to add another big center to their lineup.
5. Ivan Demidov (F) - Montreal Canadiens
If Ivan Demidov is still on the board at fifth overall, you can be sure that Kent Hughes, Jeff Gorton, and the Montreal Canadiens management team will waste no time heading to the podium. Demidov brings the explosive forward talent that the Habs have been eagerly seeking for their rebuild. Whether it's Lindstrom or Demidov, the Habs have their sights on a forward.
6. Beckett Sennecke (F) - Utah
No matter how high you get Beckett Sennecke in your mock draft, scouts continue to tell you that you might not be high enough. There's real chatter about Sennecke sneaking into the top three. If he doesn't, Utah will happily snatch him up here.
7. Zeev Biium (D) - Ottawa Senators
With Sennecke continuing to climb the ranks heading into the 2024 NHL Draft, that leaves Zeev Biium to fall to the Ottawa Senators. Biium has plenty of elite traits to be a modern day top pairing defenseman.
8. Sam Dickinson (D) - Seattle Kraken
Don't be surprised if the Seattle Kraken select a defenseman when they step up to the podium on Friday. Sam Dickinson, a solid two-way threat, projects highly at the next level.
9. Tij Iginla (F) - Calgary Flames
Though there is speculation that the Calgary Flames might opt for a defenseman if any from the top group fall. Still, the chance to select Tij Iginla is too enticing to pass up. His potential offers a promising boost to their future forward group.
10. Konsta Helenius (F) - New Jersey Devils
Playoff success often hinges on having strong center depth and big, mobile defensemen. Konsta Helenius provides the New Jersey Devils with the opportunity to have one of the best top-three center lineups in the NHL, assuming they don't trade the pick.
11. Zayne Parekeh (D) - Buffalo Sabres
It's hard to get a full read on what direction the Buffalo Sabres will take in the first round of the 2024 NHL Draft. With Zayne Parekeh falling out of the top 10, the Sabres add another big piece on their blueline.
12. Carter Yakemchuk (D) - Philadelphia Flyers
Carter Yakemchuk brings a crucial element to the Philadelphia Flyers' prospect pool. If he slips out of the top 10 in this draft class, it wouldn't be surprising to see him land in Philadelphia.
13. Berkly Catton (F) - Minnesota Wild
Originally contemplating a defenseman, the Minnesota Wild decided to draft the dynamic center Berkly Catton, given that the top-tier defensemen were already selected. Despite his smaller stature, Catton's talent is undeniable and should not be underestimated.
14. Cole Eiserman (F) - San Jose Sharks
Cole Eiserman's goal-scoring ability is unmistakable. Despite being arguably the best pure goal scorer in this draft class, his weaknesses away from the puck might keep him out of the top ten. Nevertheless, the San Jose Sharks are ready to take a chance on him, hoping for strong development as they continue their rebuild.
15. Michael Brandsegg-Nygard (F) - Detroit Red Wings
Under Steve Yzerman's leadership, the Detroit Red Wings have demonstrated a clear draft strategy, and Michael Brandsegg-Nygard fits perfectly into that plan. Despite some concerns about his overall skill level, he is a gritty forward who thrives in the offensive zone with his strong forechecking abilities.
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16. Stian Solberg (D) - St. Louis Blues
The buzz heading into the 2024 NHL Draft is that Stian Solberg is likely going to go higher than we have him on our list. Solberg continued to develop throughout the year and had a strong showing at the NHL Scouting Combine.
17. Adam Jiricek (D) - Washington Capitals
Despite his season being cut short by injury, Adam Jiricek possesses many qualities that could make him a promising NHL defenseman. While not flashy, his skill set suggests he could develop into a reliable top-four defenseman for an NHL team.
18. Michael Hage (F) - Chicago Blackhawks
The Chicago Blackhawks decided to trade up two spots to 18 for a reason. If they perceive a significant drop in talent after this range, choosing a player with Michael Hage's potential makes perfect sense.
19. Trevor Connelly (F) - Vegas Golden Knights
Trevor Connelly has top-ten talent in this draft class, but concerns about his off-ice character remain. The Golden Knights, known for their bold moves, make headlines once again by choosing him.
20. Liam Greentree (F) - New York Islanders
Given the recent team-building approach of the New York Islanders, it wouldn't be surprising if they show strong interest in a talent like Liam Greentree.
21. Cole Beaudoin (F) - Los Angeles Kings
Given the recent moves by the Los Angeles Kings, it wouldn't be surprising if the team looks to strengthen their center depth. Cole Beaudoin offers that opportunity in this range of the first round.
22. EJ Emery (D) - Nashville Predators
It's well-known in NHL circles that the Nashville Predators excel at developing defensemen with strong skill sets. Following his impressive performance at the combine, EJ Emery is a strong candidate to be selected in this range.
23. Jett Luchanko (F) - Toronto Maple Leafs
Guelph Storm center Jett Luchanko possesses several NHL-caliber traits. The Toronto Maple Leafs need more depth at center, and Luchanko has the potential to fill that role in the future.
24. Sacha Boisvert (F) - Colorado Avalanche
Despite consistently selecting in this range of the first round, the Colorado Avalanche can still secure a quality center prospect in Sacha Boisvert. At this point in the first round, this is exactly the type of selection that can fuel a franchise.
25. Nikita Artamonov (F) - Boston Bruins
Although the Boston Bruins aren't typically known for drafting Russians, they make an exception here, recognizing the potential that Nikita Artamonov offers at this stage of the first round.
26. Yegor Surin (F) - Montreal Canadiens
For the past 20 years, the Montreal Canadiens have prioritized strengthening their center depth. After selecting winger Ivan Demidov with their top-five pick, they seek additional potential by drafting Russian center Yegor Surin. Two Russian forwards in the first round for the Habs.
27. Igor Chernyshov (F) - Carolina Hurricanes
It's well-known that the Carolina Hurricanes are willing to take risks for high upside in the late first round. They see tremendous potential in the talented Russian forward Igor Chernyshov.
28. Dominik Badinka (D) - Calgary Flames
Dominik Badinka possesses many qualities that make him a potential top-four NHL defenseman. By selecting him, the Calgary Flames add another potential cornerstone to their defensive core.
29. Linus Eriksson (F) - Dallas Stars
The Dallas Stars have a proven track record of discovering hidden gems over the past decade. They aim to continue that trend by selecting center Linus Eriksson.
30. Charlie Elick (D) - New York Rangers
The New York Rangers are well-positioned for both the present and the future, giving them the flexibility to select a defenseman who may need time to develop. Charlie Elick has a high floor as a defenseman. Can the Rangers unlock even more potential?
31. Sam O’Reilly (F) - Anaheim Ducks
Sam O'Reilly perfectly fits the direction this organization is heading. The Anaheim Ducks highly value his potential, and his winning experience in London is a significant asset.
32. Dean Letourneau (F) - Philadelphia Flyers
With multiple first-round picks, the Philadelphia Flyers have the flexibility to make a bold choice. Dean Letourneau, a towering center from St. Andrews College, has a high ceiling and would be an excellent selection late in the first round.
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33. Andrew Basha (LW) - San Jose Sharks
Starting the second round, the Sharks are looking to strengthen their forward lineup to support their top pick, Macklin Celebrini. Selecting a talented winger like Andrew Basha, who has first-round potential, is a sensible decision.
34. Emil Hemming (RW) - Chicago Blackhawks
Although Emil Hemming's stats aren't flashy, he still has significant offensive potential. After selecting a defenseman with the second overall pick, the Blackhawks are now concentrating on bolstering their forward lineup.
35. Teddy Stiga (LW) - Anaheim Ducks
In the first round, the Anaheim Ducks acquired a premier defensive prospect. With many talented forward prospects still on the board in the early second round, the Ducks chose standout winger Teddy Stiga.
36. Terik Parascak (RW) - Philadelphia Flyers
After drafting a sizable center with their second pick, the Philadelphia Flyers opted for our top available player in Round 2, selecting Terik Parascak. The upside is there for him to hit as a scoring winger.
37. Jesse Pulkkinen (D) - Winnipeg Jets
After a series of forward picks to begin the round, the Winnipeg Jets shift their focus to the talented defensive prospects still available in Round 2. Jesse Pulkkinen emerges as one of the top defensemen on the board.
38. Aron Kiviharju (D) - Utah
The Utah Hockey Club is thrilled to add another skilled defensive prospect to their system early in Round 2 of the 2024 NHL Draft. Injuries have dampened the stock of Aron Kiviharju, yet the potential is still there.
39. Henry Mews (D) - Ottawa Senators
Although Henry Mews has fallen from his initial draft projections, he remains a strong prospect. The Ottawa Senators, well-acquainted with him from their local area, recognize his potential.
40. Leo Sahlin Wallenius (D) - Seattle Kraken
In the 2024 NHL Draft, the Seattle Kraken are committed to bolstering their future defense, making strides toward this goal by selecting Leo Sahlin Wallenius in Round 2.
41. Maxim Masse (RW) - Calgary Flames
In this phase of the second round, the Calgary Flames are targeting high-potential players. Maxim Masse, who had an impressive season in the QMJHL, offers significant goal-scoring potential at the next level.
42. Alfons Freij (D) - San Jose Sharks
After beginning both the first and second rounds with forward selections, the San Jose Sharks turn their attention to defense with another second-round pick. Alfons Freij adds considerable upside to their defensive lineup.
43. Ryder Ritchie (RW) - Buffalo Sabres
The Buffalo Sabres have the potential to build one of the NHL's premier blue lines in the future. Now, they continue to address their forward needs by selecting the talented Ryder Ritchie.
44. Matvei Gridin (LW) - Pittsburgh Penguins
We are familiar with Kyle Dubas's draft strategy, and he won't hesitate to make a pick like this. Matvei Gridin embodies many of the qualities the Penguins look for in a forward.
45. Cole Hutson (D) - Minnesota Wild
It will be fascinating to see where Cole Hutson ends up in the 2024 NHL Draft. Unlike his brother Lane, who was chosen at the end of the second round, it's hard to envision a similar drop for Cole given his brother's potential. The Wild seem like an excellent fit considering their current defensive setup.
46. Harrison Brunicke (D) - Pittsburgh Penguins
At this point in the draft, choosing a big defenseman with true puck skills provides considerable value. Harrison Brunicke embodies the high-upside selection that the Penguins should make.
47. Lucas Pettersson (C) - Detroit Red Wings
With strong projections for the Red Wings' defense in two years, they continue to bolster their forward mix by making a strategic selection with Lucas Pettersson.
48. Marek Vanacker (LW) - St. Louis Blues
Marek Vanacker showcased impressive flashes in the OHL this season. The St. Louis Blues can easily see him developing into a top-nine forward on their roster in the future.
49. Tanner Howe (F) - Utah
There was a moment early in the scouting process when it seemed Tanner Howe might be selected much earlier. However, his potential remains undeniable, and Utah capitalizes on it with this pick.
50. Simon Zether (C) - Chicago Blackhawks
Despite being one of the older prospects in this draft class, Simon Zether displayed significant maturity in his gameplay this season, a quality that the Blackhawks could greatly benefit from during their rebuild.
51. Luke Misa (C) - Philadelphia Flyers
While it's uncertain how long John Tortorella will remain at the helm for the Philadelphia Flyers, the addition of Luke Misa and his impressive speed will undoubtedly enhance the team's forechecking abilities going forward.
52. Leon Muggli (D) - Washington Capitals
Leon Muggli, who competed in Switzerland’s premier professional league, attracted significant attention from the NHL this season. As a robust two-way defender, Muggli could be a valuable asset for the Washington Capitals.
53. Adam Jecho (F) - Nashville Predators
Adam Jecho's impressive stature, combined with his international experience, makes him an appealing draft choice for the Nashville Predators.
54. Adam Kleber (D) - New York Islanders
It's uncertain whether Adam Kleber will be available this late in the second round. However, if he is still on the board, it's easy to see the New York Islanders quickly taking the opportunity to draft him.
55. Christian Humphreys (F) - Nashville Predators
Christian Humphreys has a compelling profile that's quite attractive. Given the Nashville Predators' desire to bolster their forward lineup, selecting him fits perfectly within their strategy.
56. Riley Patterson (F) - St. Louis Blues
Riley Patterson's stock has climbed steadily over his draft year. His robust athleticism and skating skills make him an excellent match for the St. Louis Blues organization.
57. John Mustard (F) - Montreal Canadiens
The Montreal Canadiens are looking to bolster their depth at center within their prospect pool. John Mustard, as a versatile center, is a great fit to meet this requirement.
58. Julius Miettinen (F) - Anaheim Ducks
The Anaheim Ducks boast one of the NHL's most robust prospect pools and have further enhanced their high-end depth with early picks in this class. Julius Miettinen contributes additional depth at forward to their lineup.
59. Max Plante (F) - Nashville Predators
Armed with a slew of second-round draft picks, the Nashville Predators remain optimistic that their focus on selecting forwards will yield results. Max Plante represents a strong choice for the Preds at this point.
60. Melvin Fernstrom (F) - Carolina Hurricanes
The Carolina Hurricanes, known for their adept management, are not shy about making daring draft picks with potential for high rewards. They demonstrate this approach in the second round by selecting forward Melvin Fernstrom.
61. Alexander Zetterberg (F) - New York Islanders
Despite lacking the size typically preferred by the New York Islanders for the center position, Alexander Zetterberg's potential makes him too valuable for them to overlook at this stage in the draft.
62. Marcus Gidlof (G) - Calgary Flames
After some goalie movement from the Calgary Flames this offseason, it won't be a surprise to see them select one early in this class. Marcus Gidlof is one of our top ranked goalies, making this a strong selection late in the second.
63. Anthony Romani (F) - Seattle Kraken
Having focused on their defensive lineup earlier in the draft, the Seattle Kraken now turn their attention to strengthening their offense. Anthony Romani, a promising forward from the OHL, offers considerable value at this point in the draft.
64. Will Zellers (F) - Edmonton Oilers
For their top pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, the Edmonton Oilers select one of the highest-ranked prospects available, Will Zellers. Given their depth needs both defensively and offensively, Edmonton is likely to seize the opportunity to select the best player available.
65. Brodie Ziemer (F) - Utah
Utah concludes the second round of the 2024 NHL Draft by selecting Brodie Ziemer, a player whose competitive spirit and skills align with what Utah seeks in a supportive role.
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1. Macklin Celebrini (F) - San Jose Sharks
The decision is clear for the San Jose Sharks. After winning the top pick at the draft lottery, they draft Macklin Celebrini to be the new face of their franchise. Celebrini, widely considered the top prospect in this draft class, provides the Sharks with the crucial player needed to propel their rebuild forward. No brainer.
