2016 NHL Mock Draft: Coyotes draft Auston Matthews
Mississauga Steelheads (OHL). Michael McLeod. 12. player. 103. . Center/Wing
The Colorado Avalanche are set at center for the time being with Matt Duchene, Carl Soderberg, and Nathan MacKinnon. So why draft another center in Michael McLeod? Because he’d be an excellent wing as well. McLeod is a very well-rounded player who does a lot of things well. He might not have the gaudy numbers of some of the other players but he plays a 200 foot game.
McLeod is a borderline top 10 pick but he didn’t have a strong showing at the World Juniors or at the OHL Top Prospects game. That shouldn’t be concerning because the big picture suggests McLeod has everything it takes to be a successful NHL player. In order to make the switch to wing, McLeod must work on his finishing ability. He has steadily improved this season in that regard.
His body isn’t that impressive at 6’2″ and 187 pounds so he will need to fill out as well. He isn’t shifty enough to avoid playing along the boards so he will need to improve there as well. McLeod is a quick learner and extremely competitive so that should help him make the adjustment in the NHL. The Avalanche could always just keep him at center (his natural position). What’s important is that McLeod is extremely talented. For a team like Colorado, that’s what matters.
Next: #13: Carolina Hurricanes