2016 NHL Mock Draft: Coyotes draft Auston Matthews

The Detroit Red Wings must improve their blue line. While Mike Babcock had success with a group of defensemen that were defensively responsible, since he has left, the Red Wings have installed a system that encourages the blue liners to be more active. That’s something that the Red Wings blue line simply isn’t good at doing. Adding someone like Charles McAvoy could help take their offense to the next level.

McAvoy has gotten a baptism by fire this season thanks to the injury bug biting the Terriers’ blue line hard. He has responded by having a phenomenal season while playing during all situations. McAvoy is a puck mover and he has terrific defensive instincts. His body (6’0″ and 205 pounds) has filled out nicely as well.

The sole red flag with McAvoy is his footwork. He is an above average skater in terms of speed, but he struggles a bit going east and west. McAvoy has shown improvement there, which is encouraging, but he must continue to get better to reach his true potential.

Charles McAvoy’s ability to move to puck is something that NHL teams covet. The Red Wings should grab him here and allow him to continue to develop with Boston University. He’ll be a great NHL player. Detroit is famous for being patient with their prospects and that will benefit McAvoy.

Next: #15: Minnesota Wild