2016 NHL Mock Draft: Coyotes draft Auston Matthews

The Carolina Hurricanes have done a tremendous job rebuilding their blue line through the NHL Draft over the past few years. However, now they must address their number one concern moving forward: their forwards. The best forward left on the board is center Clayton Keller. Keller has size concerns at just 5’9″ but he knows how to play small. He is very shifty and quick with the puck. Keller is the kind of teammate who makes whoever plays with him better because of his playmaking abilities.

Clayton Keller has great vision and instincts. Combined with a smooth yet agile skating style, he has the physical tools necessary to be at least a top six forward in the NHL. There are some concerns with Keller. He must improve at playing small because in the NHL, he’d be one of the smallest players in the league. Keller also must become more confident with the puck and shoot it more often. He’s a great playmaker, but he tends to be more of a pass first guy. Developing his shot would make him even more dangerous.

To get anywhere in the NHL these days, you have to be able to score. Keller might not be more than a 25 goal scorer at best in the NHL, but he could sure help turn players into goal scorers.

Next: #14: Detroit Red Wings