2018 NHL mock draft: Post-NHL draft lottery

13. Dallas Stars: C Ryan McLeod 

If this name sounds familiar it is; his older brother Michael McLeod was drafted in the 2016 NHL draft by the New Jersey Devils. The two were teammates on the Mississauga Steelheads of the OHL. Ryan McLeod is similar to his brother if not a little better. He can create chances everywhere on the ice with his elite skating ability. McLeod can stickhandle through anyone on the ice at any time. He enjoys setting up his teammates instead of scoring himself. When he does decide to use his shot it is a great weapon. He assumed a lot of responsibility defensively and often played against the OHL’s top lines. McLeod also lead the Steelheads penalty kill. These traits are what separates him from other prospects in his class.

McLeod still has to grow into his game. He is a very talented prospect but to become a talented NHL prospect he needs to get better in all aspects. Ryan McLeod at best will project to a second line player in the NHL. A best-case scenario for McLeod is that he is flanked by two talented scoring wingers. That would take pressure off of McLeod and he can focus on just making plays. That is what he is best at.

The Dallas Stars need centers. They have solid prospects on the blue line coming up with Miro Heiskanen. Joesph Cecconi is a slower developing defenseman from the University of Michigan but still promising. The winger position looks good with Riley Tufte and a possible return of Valeri Nichushkin. Ryan McLeod would likely go back to the OHL for another year but would challenge for a roster spot the year after.