2018 NHL mock draft: Post-NHL draft lottery
![PLYMOUTH, MI - FEBRUARY 16: Andrei Svechnikov #7 of the Russian Nationals controls the puck in front of Jack Hughes #43 of the USA Nationals during the 2018 Under-18 Five Nations Tournament game at USA Hockey Arena on February 16, 2018 in Plymouth, Michigan. USA defeated Russia 5-4. (Photo by Dave Reginek/Getty Images)*** Local Caption *** Andrei Svechnikov; Jack Hughes PLYMOUTH, MI - FEBRUARY 16: Andrei Svechnikov #7 of the Russian Nationals controls the puck in front of Jack Hughes #43 of the USA Nationals during the 2018 Under-18 Five Nations Tournament game at USA Hockey Arena on February 16, 2018 in Plymouth, Michigan. USA defeated Russia 5-4. (Photo by Dave Reginek/Getty Images)*** Local Caption *** Andrei Svechnikov; Jack Hughes](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/b661dd2a33c72f072a18a1eacad1b16f55860c6c46091d7ec68e2228d92142c7.jpg)
11. New York Islanders: LW Joel Farabee
The New York Islanders will add a talented winger with the 11th overall pick in this year’s draft. Farabee is one of the luckiest forwards in the draft. He plays on the same line as Oliver Wahlstrom and next year’s projected top pick Jack Hughes. He was able to be the captain of the US NDTP team this season. On this top line, Farabee was able to pick up 76 points in 62 games. Some scouts are concerned that his production is just a result from his linemates. The scouts will have their answer next season when Farabee joins Boston University.
Farabee has plenty of talent in his own right. He possesses an elite shot for his age group. Farabee is also a gifted skater and he knows how to use it to benefit himself. He uses his speed to create space and open up shooting lanes. Farabee is not all offense, he is great at using his strong skating ability to play great defense. This well rounded forward will make any team happy to select him.
As for his fit on the New York Islanders, it will be great for him to pair with a player like Mathew Barzal. They are both players that make everyone around them better. Barzal has blazing speed and Farabee might be one of the few people that can keep up. Farabee’s strong defensive play will free up Barzal to be even more impactful on offense. If the Islanders can hit on both of these draft picks they can quickly begin their rebuilding process if John Tavares leaves. If he stays, these two players can help them get to the playoffs.