2016 NHL Mock Draft: Coyotes draft Auston Matthews

As much as the Toronto Maple Leafs would LOVE to have their own version of the Sedins by drafting Alex Nylander (2014 first round pick William’s younger brother), drafting Nylander with the second overall pick is a stretch. Toronto needs to add as much talent as possible at wing. They are set for the future at center. Choosing between Pulujujarvi and Laine is a decision that NHL teams would love to be able to make. However, from a pure skill standpoint, Pulujujarvi is the most skilled wing at the draft.

He’s a great combination of size, speed, and strength. His quick release and natural hockey instincts make him a threat to score from anywhere on the ice. Puljujarvi has been dominating since he was 16. His strong performance at the World Juniors in December and January ensure that he will be drafted very early.

Laine might be bigger and be more gritty, but skill tends to be a language that all leagues speak. Puljujarvi will have an interesting adjustment period to North America, but he’s skilled enough to make it work. And the Leafs have a deep enough prospect system that they should be drafting purely based on skill and upside.

Next: #3: Montreal Canadiens