The Daily: Hockey Now Mock Draft; Panthers Win Again in OT

‘Tis the season for Mock Drafts. Hockey Now is at it again, this time instead of using Tankathon, Montreal Hockey Now’s Marco D’Amico uses the order that is set.

Of course, everyone knows that Connor Bedard is going #1 to the Blackhawks. But the top five is certainly a shuffle, with Adam Fantilli and Leo Carlsson going next to Anaheim and Columbus respectively. Matvei Michkov and Will Smith round out the top five. Michkov, D’Amico writes, is just too good to pass up regardless of status.

Those looking for who Chicago takes at 19 might be surprised to see him still there. In this author’s humble opinion, he’ll long be off the board before then. Chicago Hockey Now wrote about Andrew Cristall earlier this morning. He’s another goal scorer who will make the team that takes him very happy.

The NHL Draft will certainly have its surprises. Don’t be shocked if Cristall is one who rises on the draft board over the next few weeks.

Florida Wins Again in OT to Take 2-0 Series Lead

Well this looks familiar. Panthers go on the road, swipe two games, and head home to try and put it all away. Florida continues its impressive run, burying Carolina 2-1 in overtime Saturday night. Remember when Florida was considered an appetizer for Boston?

Yeah, neither does anyone else.

Blackhawks In Case You Missed It

• The Seattle Thunderbirds are winning more than just the WHL Title. They’re winning big for the Blackhawks Pipeline
• Hockey Now’s Mock Draft has Chicago taking Andrew Cristall. Here’s a little bit about him and what he would bring the Blackhawks
• Kyle Dubas being dumped by Toronto will affect the league. Could the Blackhawks could pounce and maybe get a member of the core-four at a reasonable price.

Hockey Now Network

Boston: There are a lot of comparisons between the hardwood and ice in Florida as both teams battle. Boston Bruins

Calgary: The Flames will see if Dustin Wolf is ready to play between the pipes in the NHL. Calgary Flames

Colorado: What can the Avalanche learn from the final four playoff teams? Colorado Avalanche

Detroit: Joe Veleno may be watching the rest of the World Championships after his last game. Detroit Red Wings

Nashville: The AHL affiliate Milwaukee Admirals wait another day to advance. Nashville Predators

Philadelphia: Noah Kates can be a keeper for the Flyers. Philadelphia Flyers

Vegas: Three lessons the Golden Knights can take from Game 1: Vegas Golden Knights