FanSided’s 2020 NHL Entry Draft Rankings: Top 30 prospects
By Simon Vacca
Hockey Prospects 20-16
20. Connor Zary, C, Kamloops Blazers — WHL (6-foot-0, 181 pounds)
The type of center who manages to marry offensive talent with defensive smarts. Zary can be a difficult player to match up against, as he has the offensive toolkit — shooting, passing and speed — to devastate opponents. Expect those evaluating his game to be divided on his skating.
19. Braden Schneider, D, Brandon Wheat Kings — WHL (6-foot-2, 209 pounds)
A right-shot defender who plays well at both ends of the ice. While there is not necessarily reason to believe that Schneider will be a high-end producer in the NHL, expect organizations to recognize him as one of the leaders of the very good camp in this year’s draft. A safe pick.
18. Jérémie Poirier, D, Saint John Sea Dogs — QMJHL (6-foot-0, 192 pounds)
The type of defenseman for whom opinion promises to be split among both scouts and fans. Those who admire Poirier’s style of play will turn to his offensive toolkit — which entails high-end puck moving skills from the back end, strong transition work and a devastating shot — as a noteworthy point of praise. But the 17-year-old’s defensive shortcomings in his own end shall ensure that doubt continues to run rampant. Regardless, look for an NHL team in need of a momentum-shifting, offense-first defender to snatch Poirier up if the opportunity comes to light.
17. Dylan Holloway, C, University Of Wisconsin — NCAA (6-foot-0, 192 pounds)
A hard worker who can pass and shoot with a reasonably strong degree of success. Holloway skates well and plays a fairly smart game, bringing a high compete level to prospective NHL organizations.
16. William Wallinder, D, MODO Hockey — Allsvenskan (6-foot-4, 192 pounds)
A great defender who demonstrates a penchant for shutting down opponents and clocking in tough minutes from the back end. Wallinder’s offense has continued to get better as the past year has progressed, but the 17-year-old’s play in his own zone is what shall attract scouts at the professional level.