Here is the TV schedule for the 2018 Stanley Cup playoffs with commentators.
4/11- WCQF, Game 1: Wild vs Jets; 7:00, CNBC: Gord Miller & Darren Pang
4/11- ECQF, Game 1: Flyers vs Penguins; 7:00, NBCSN: John Forslund & Pierre McGuire
4/11- WCQF, Game 1: Kings vs Golden Knights; 10:00, NBCSN: Chris Cuthbert & Ray Ferraro
4/12- ECQF, Game 1: Devils vs Lightning; 7:00, NHLN: Rick Peckham & Brian Engblom (Lightning feed)
4/12- ECQF, Game 1: Maple Leafs vs Bruins; 7:00, NBCSN: Doc Emrick, Mike Millbury, Pierre McGuire
4/12- ECQF, Game 1: Blue Jackets vs Capitals; 7:30, USA: Gord Miller & Joe Micheletti
4/12- WCQF, Game 1: Avalanche vs Predators; 9:30, NBCSN: Kenny Albert, AJ Mleczko, Brian Boucher
4/12- WCQF, Game 1: Sharks vs Ducks; 10:30, USA: Brendan Burke, Mike Johnson
4/13- ECQF, Game 2: Flyers vs Penguins; 7:00, NBCSN: John Forslund, Pierre McGuire
4/13- WCQF, Game 2: Wild vs Jets; 7:30, USA: Paul Romanuk, Garry Galley, Cassie Campbell-Pascall, Scott Oake (Sportsnet feed)
4/13- WCQF, Game 2: Kings vs Golden Knights; 10:00, NBCSN: Chris Cuthbert, Ray Ferraro
4/14- WCQF, Game 2: Avalanche vs Predators; 3:00, NBC/CNBC: Kenny Albert, Brian Boucher
4/14- ECQF, Game 2: Devils vs Lightning; 3:00, NBC/CNBC: Gord Miller, Joe Micheletti
4/14- ECQF, Game 2: Maple Leafs vs Bruins; 8:00, NBC: Mike Emrick, Mike Milbury, Pierre McGuire
4/14- WCQF, Game 2: Sharks vs Ducks; 10:30, NBCSN: Brendan Burke, Mike Johnson
4/15- ECQF, Game 3: Penguins vs Flyers; 3:00, NBC: John Forslund, Eddie Olczyk, Pierre McGuire
4/15- WCQF, Game 3: Jets vs Wild; 7:00, USA: Gord Miller, Joe Micheletti
4/15- ECQF, Game 2: Blue Jackets vs Capitals; 7:30, NBCSN: Ken Daniels, Darren Pang
4/15- WCQF, Game 3: Golden Knights vs Kings; 10:30, NBCSN: Chris Cuthbert, Ray Ferraro
4/16- ECQF, Game 3: Bruins vs Maple Leafs; 7:00, NBCSN: John Forslund, Pierre McGuire
4/16- ECQF, Game 3: Lightning vs Devils; 7:30, CNBC: John Walton, Darren Pang
4/16- WCQF, Game 3: Predators vs Avalanche; 10:00, NBCSN: Kenny Albert, Brian Boucher
4/16- WCQF, Game 3: Ducks vs Sharks; 10:30, CNBC: Brendan Burke, Mike Johnson
4/17- ECQF, Game 3: Capitals vs Blue Jackets; 7:30, NBCSN: Ken Daniels, Darren Pang
4/17- WCQF, Game 4: Jets vs Wild; 8:00, CNBC: Gord Miller, Joe Micheletti
4/17- WCQF, Game 4: Golden Knights vs Kings; 10:30, NBCSN: Chris Cuthbert, Ray Ferraro
4/18- ECQF, Game 4: Penguins vs Flyers; 7:00, NBCSN: Gord Miller, Pierre McGuire
4/18- ECQF, Game 4: Lightning vs Devils; 7:30, GOLF: John Forslund, Joe Micheletti
4/18- WCQF, Game 4: Predators vs Avalanche; 10:00, NBCSN: Kenny Albert, Brian Boucher
4/18- WCQF, Game 4: Ducks vs Sharks; 10:30, GOLF: Brendan Burke, Mike Johnson
4/19- ECQF, Game 4: Bruins vs Maple Leafs; 7:00, NBCSN: Mike Emrick, Eddie Olczyk, Pierre McGuire
4/19- ECQF, Game 4: Capitals vs Blue Jackets; 7:30, USA: Ken Daniels, Darren Pang
4/20- ECQF, Game 5: Flyers vs Penguins; 7:00, NBCSN: John Forslund, Pierre McGuire
4/20- WCQF, Game 5: Wild vs Jets; 7:30, USA: Paul Romanuk, Garry Galley, Cassie Campbell-Pascall, Scott Oake (Sportsnet feed)
4/20- WCQF, Game 5: Avalanche vs Predators; 9:30, NBCSN: Kenny Albert, A.J. Mleczko, Brian Boucher
4/21- ECQF, Game 5: Devils vs Lightning; 3:00, NBC/NBCSN: Gord Miller, Joe Micheletti
4/21- ECQF, Game 5: Blue Jackets vs Capitals; 3:00, NBC/NBCSN: Chris Cuthbert, Ray Ferraro
4/21- ECQF, Game 5: Maple Leafs vs Bruins; 8:00, NBC: Mike Emrick, Mike Milbury, Pierre McGuire
4/22- ECQF, Game 6: Penguins vs Flyers; 3:00, NBC: John Forslund, Eddie Olczyk, Pierre McGuire
4/22- WCQF, Game 6: Predators vs Avalanche; 7:30, NBCSN: Kenny Albert, A.J. Mleczko, Brian Boucher
4/23- ECQF, Game 6: Bruins vs Maple Leafs; 7:00, NBCSN: Mike Emrick, Mike Milbury, Pierre McGuire
4/23- ECQF, Game 6: Capitals vs Blue Jackets; 7:30, CNBC: John Forslund, Eddie Olczyk, Joe Micheletti
4/25- ECQF, Game 7: Maple Leafs vs Bruins; 7:30, NBCSN: Mike Emrick, Mike Milbury, Pierre McGuire
4/26- ECSF, Game 1: Penguins vs Capitals; 7:00, NBCSN: Mike Emrick, Eddie Olczyk, Pierre McGuire
4/26- WCSF, Game 1: Sharks vs Golden Knights; 10:15, NBCSN: John Forslund, Joe Micheletti
4/27- WCSF, Game 1: Jets vs Predators; 8:00, NBCSN: Chris Cuthbert, A.J. Mleczko, Brian Boucher
4/28- ECSF, Game 1: Bruins vs Lightning; 3:00, NBC: Gord Miller, Mike Milbury, Brian Boucher
4/28- WCSF, Game 2: Sharks vs Golden Knights; 8:00, NBC: John Forslund, Eddie Olczyk, Joe Micheletti, Jeremy Roenick
4/29- ECSF, Game 2: Penguins vs Capitals; 3:00, NBC: Mike Emrick, Mike Milbury, Pierre McGuire
4/29- WCSF, Game 2: Jets vs Predators; 7:00, NBCSN: Chris Cuthbert, A.J. Mleczko, Brian Boucher
4/30- ECSF, Game 2: Bruins vs Lightning; 7:00, NBCSN: Kenny Albert, Pierre McGuire
4/30- WCSF, Game 3: Golden Knights vs Sharks; 10:00, NBCSN: John Forslund, Joe Micheletti
5/1- ECSF, Game 3: Capitals vs Penguins; 7:30, NBCSN: Mike Emrick, Pierre McGuire
5/1- WCSF, Game 3: Predators vs Jets; 8:00, CNBC: Chris Cuthbert, A.J. Mleczko, Brian Boucher
5/2- ECSF, Game 3: Lightning vs Bruins; 7:00, NBCSN: Kenny Albert, Pierre McGuire
5/2- WCSF, Game 4: Golden Knights vs Sharks; 10:00, NBCSN: John Forslund, Joe Micheletti
5/3- ECSF, Game 4: Capitals vs Penguins; 7:00, NBCSN: Mike Emrick, Mike Milbury, Pierre McGuire
5/3- WCSF, Game 4: Predators vs Jets; 9:30, NBCSN: Chris Cuthbert, A.J. Mleczko, Brian Boucher
5/4- ECSF, Game 4: Lightning vs Bruins; 7:00, NBCSN: Kenny Albert, Pierre McGuire
5/4- WCSF, Game 5: Sharks vs Golden Knights; 10:00, NBCSN: John Forslund, Joe Micheletti
5/5- ECSF, Game 5: Penguins vs Capitals; 7:00, NBC: Mike Emrick, Mike Milbury, Pierre McGuire
5/5- WCSF, Game 5: Jets vs Predators; 9:30, NBCSN: Chris Cuthbert, A.J. Mleczko, Brian Boucher
5/6- ECSF, Game 5: Bruins vs Lightning; 3:00, NBC: Kenny Albert, Pierre McGuire
5/6- WCSF, Game 6: Golden Knights vs Sharks; 7:00, NBCSN: John Forslund, Joe Micheletti
5/7- ECSF, Game 6: Capitals vs Penguins; 7:00, NBCSN: Mike Emrick, Mike Milbury, Pierre McGuire
5/7- WCSF, Game 6: Predators vs Jets; 9:30, NBCSN: Chris Cuthbert, A.J. Mleczko, Brian Boucher
5/10- WCSF, Game 7: Jets vs Predators; 8:00, NBCSN: Kenny Albert, Eddie Olczyk, Pierre McGuire
5/11- ECF, Game 1: Capitals vs Lightning; 8:00, NBCSN: Mike Emrick, Mike Milbury, Brian Boucher
5/12- WCF, Game 1: Golden Knights vs Jets; 7:00, NBC: Kenny Albert, Joe Micheletti, Pierre McGuire
5/13- ECF, Game 2: Capitals vs Lightning; 8:00, NBCSN: Mike Emrick, Mike Milbury, Brian Boucher
5/14- WCF, Game 2: Golden Knights vs Jets; 8:00, NBCSN: Kenny Albert, Joe Micheletti, Brian Boucher
5/15- ECF, Game 3: Lightning vs Capitals; 8:00, NBCSN: Mike Emrick, Eddie Olczyk, Pierre McGuire
5/16- WCF, Game 3: Jets vs Golden Knights; 9:00, NBCSN: Kenny Albert, Joe Micheletti, Brian Boucher
5/17- ECF, Game 4: Lightning vs Capitals; 8:00, NBCSN: Mike Emrick, Eddie Olczyk, Pierre McGuire
5/18- WCF, Game 4: Jets vs Golden Knights; 8:00, NBCSN: Kenny Albert, Joe Micheletti, Brian Boucher
5/19- ECF, Game 5: Capitals vs Lightning; 7:15, NBC: Mike Emrick, Pierre McGuire
5/20- WCF, Game 5: Golden Knight vs Jets; 3:00, NBC: Kenny Albert, Joe Micheletti, Brian Boucher
5/21- ECF, Game 6: Lightning vs Capitals; 8:00, NBCSN: Mike Emrick, Eddie Olczyk, Pierre McGuire
5/23- ECF, Game 7: Capitals vs Lightning; 8:00, NBCSN: Mike Emrick, Eddie Olczyk, Pierre McGuire
5/28- SCF, Game 1: Capitals vs Golden Knights; 8:00, NBC: Mike Emrick, Eddie Olczyk, Pierre McGuire
5/30- SCF, Game 2: Capitals vs Golden Knights; 8:00, NBCSN: Mike Emrick, Eddie Olczyk, Pierre McGuire
6/2- SCF, Game 3: Golden Knights vs Capitals; 8:00, NBCSN: Mike Emrick, Eddie Olczyk, Pierre McGuire
6/4- SCF, Game 4: Golden Knights vs Capitals; 8:00, NBC: Mike Emrick, Eddie Olczyk, Pierre McGuire
Wednesday, April 11, 2018
2018 NFL Mock Draft: Seventh Edition
Here is my seventh edition of my 2018 NFL Draft.
1. Cleveland Browns- Sam Darnold, Quarterback, USC: Although they did trade for Tyrod Taylor, he's not the long term answer for a team that needs a long term/possible franchise quarterback for the future. Darnold could be that due to his leadership, good throwing arm, clutch play as he's shown at the collegiate level, and his athleticism.
2. New York Giants- Josh Allen, Quarterback, Wyoming: Some mock drafts have Big Blue taking Saquon Barkley or Bradley Chubb here, but after the blockbuster Jets-Colts trade, something tells me Dave Gettleman plans on taking Eli Manning's successor. With all the smoke Jim Mora is throwing at Josh Rosen, the Giants take Allen, who has the most upside among the quarterbacks due to his athleticism, arm strength, and size and draws comparisons to Carson Wentz.
3. New York Jets (from Indianapolis Colts)- Josh Rosen, Quarterback, UCLA: Rosen's stock is dropping due to his concussion issues and his former coach Jim Mora throwing him under the bus. Rosen is perhaps the safest bet in this draft (in terms of quarterbacks) due to his accuracy and refined throwing mechanics.
4. Cleveland Browns (from Houston Texans)- Saquon Barkley, Running Back, Penn State: The Browns did sign Carlos Hyde in free agency, but there is still talk of the Browns taking Barkley first and a quarterback fourth. Barkley is the drafts best player and he can do pretty much everything.
5. Denver Broncos- Baker Mayfield, Quarterback, Oklahoma: Although they did sign Case Keenum, he's not the long-term answer at quarterback. The Broncos love Mayfield and he has a ton of potential with his gunslinger mentality although due to his height and off the court antics, is compared to Johnny Manziel.
6. Indianapolis Colts (from New York Jets)- Bradley Chubb, Defensive End, North Carolina State: This was a home run trade for the Colts and it would become a grand slam if they land either Chubb or Barkley here. Chubb will be a great fit in the Colts 4-3 defense and he's a three-down back that would help them stop the likes of DeShaun Watson and Marcus Mariota within their division.
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Minkah Fitzpatrick, Safety, Alabama: This would be a steal here for the Bucs, who have a bigger need for a pass-rusher, so instead take Fitzpatrick to bolster their secondary. Fitzpatrick's versatility makes him special and he's perhaps the best defensive player in this draft.
8. Chicago Bears- Quenton Nelson, Guard, Notre Dame: The Bears have a need at edge rusher and with Chubb off the board, they address their need at left guard and Nelson fits the bill. Nelson seems like a sure thing and worthy of a top-ten pick and will help the Bears on the interior of the offensive line and will serve good for Mitch Trubisky.
9. San Francisco 49ers- Tremaine Edmunds, Linebacker, Virginia Tech: The Niners snag Edmunds here to improve their linebacking corps. Edmunds is nineteen years old and his athleticism would give the Niners young defense a different look to go with Reuben Foster.
10. Oakland Raiders- Denzel Ward, Cornerback, Ohio State: Ward dropping this far would be a steal for the Silver And Black. Ward isn't the biggest cornerback in the draft but he can cover skills that are hard to come by in the league.
11. Miami Dolphins- Roquan Smith, Linebacker, Georgia: Smith brings speed and athleticism and that would be much needed for this Dolphins defense, that needs some youth. This is a possible steal here.
12. Buffalo Bills (from Cincinnati Bengals)- Mike McGlinchey, Offensive Tackle, Notre Dame: After the trading of Cody Glenn, the Bills have a need on the offensive line. McGlinchey isn't that strong, but he's athletic and brings stability.
13. Washington Redskins- Derwin James, Strong Safety, Florida State: Perhaps the best defensive playmaker in the draft, James is the new NFL prototype as a safety capable of producing against the run or in both man and zone coverage. Florida State also used him as a pure edge rusher, where he regularly pressured the quarterback.
14. Green Bay Packers- Harold Landry, Linebacker, Boston College: With Ward off the board, the Packers go with Landry here to improve their pass rush. Landry did not have a great season in his final season at BC, but he should still be a solid pro.
15. Arizona Cardinals- Lamar Jackson, Quarterback, Louisville: The Cards are another trade up candidate, but here I have them selecting Jackson, who's a good decision maker and passer. The Cards know that Mike Glennon and Sam Bradford are not the long-term answers and Jackson would in theory be in a red-shirt situation here and a long-term foundation of Jackson and David Johnson is tough to pass up on.
16. Baltimore Ravens- Calvin Ridley, Wide Receiver, Alabama: The Ravens have lacked a big-threat receiver for years now and they get one here with Ridley, although they did sign John Brown and Michael Crabtree. Ridley brings a downfield, speedy option on the outside that would bring a different look to the Ravens offense.
17. Los Angeles Chargers- Da'Ron Payne, Defensive Tackle, Alabama: The Chargers pose what is arguably the best edge rushing duo in the league with Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram. Adding someone like Payne would only make that defensive line better.
18. Seattle Seahawks- Isaiah Wynn, Guard, Georgia: Wynn would bring a nice upgrade to a Seahawks offensive line to protect Russell Wilson and take pressure off the running game. Wynn can play tackle if needed but will succeed as a guard instantly. He plays with outstanding leverage and has the athleticism to mirror pass-rushers.
19. Dallas Cowboys- Maurice Hurst, Defensive Tackle, Michigan: Hurst had a heart condition at the combine and that shouldn't drop him out of the first round. Hurst doesn't have the size that teams are generally looking for in an interior defensive lineman, but his quickness more than makes up for that deficiency and makes him in particular a great threat rushing the passer on third downs.
20. Detroit Lions- Vita Vea, Denfensive Tackle, Washington: Vea, a massive presence in the middle of a defensive line, will go a long way toward fixing that deficiency, while also providing enough quickness to penetrate into the backfield on some third downs. He would be a great fit in Matt Patricia's defense.
21. Cincinnati Bengals (from Buffalo Bills)- Leighton Vander Esch, Linebacker, Boise State: Vander Esch is rising up many peoples mocks drafts of late. With Vontez Burfict suspended to start the season and his future with the team up in the air, the Bengals take Vander Esch to bolster their linebacking core.
22. Buffalo Bills (from Kansas City Chiefs)- Mason Rudolph, Quarterback, Oklahoma State: The Bills are a strong candidate to trade up for a quarterback, but I don't do trades in my mock drafts so here I have them selecting Rudolph. He's an experienced pocket passer with nice downfield touch.
23. New England Patriots (from Los Angeles Rams)- Marcus Davenport, Defensive End, UTSA: Davenport is a bit of a wild card since he's from a Group Of 5 school. The Pats are a nice landing spot for Davenport as he gets to learn under Bill Belichick and that defensive staff and would provide much needed youth to the Pats pass rush.
24. Carolina Panthers- Will Hernandez, Guard, UTEP: No brainer pick here as the Panthers find their replacement for Andrew Norwell. Hernandez is big and powerful and he provides mobility.
25. Tennessee Titans- Rashaan Evans, Linebacker, Alabama: Evans brings an athletic presence who can fill multiple roles. He was more of an edge defender early in his career, and he pressured the quarterback on 67 of his 284 career rushes. However, he also showed well in a more traditional role over the last two years.
26. Atlanta Falcons- Taven Bryan, Defensive End, Florida: The Falcons don't have any major needs, but bolstering the defensive line could be necessary if Dontari Poe leaves in free agency. Bryan has drawn comparisons to JJ Watt and will bring depth to the Falcons defensive line.
27. New Orleans Saints- Dallas Goedert, Tight End, South Dakota State: Goedert's draft stock is trending up although there are some concerns due to injury. Goedert would be a nice weapon for Drew Brees.
28. Pittsburgh Steelers- Mike Hughes, Cornerback, UCF: Hughes is a player trending up many peoples mock boards and people have him pegged in the top 15, but I don't see him being drafted that high. Hughes would fit nicely with Artie Burns in the Steelers secondary.
29. Jacksonville Jaguars- Courtland Sutton, Wide Receiver, SMU: With the Jags losing Allen Robinson in free agency, they replace him with Sutton, who could be a steal. Sutton put together back-to-back seasons of 1,000 yards and 10 TDs, and he scored 32 times in all in his three seasons with the Mustangs.
30. Minnesota Vikings- Billy Price, Guard, Ohio State: Price would be a nice addition to a Vikings team that can use offensive line help to protect Kirk Cousins. Price would be a great target for them as a potential replacement for Joe Berger inside. Price would be one of the better starting centers in the league, so the Vikings have the option of sticking him at the pivot immediately and having Pat Elflein compete at a guard spot.
31. New England Patriots- Arden Key, Defensive End/Linebacker, LSU: Key is a prospect trending down on mock boards. The premier pass-rusher dealt with injuries himself in 2017, but he's impressed against top SEC talent and should be a constant sack threat in the NFL if he can stay on the field.
32. Philadelphia Eagles- Connor Williams, Offensive Tackle, Texas: The Eagles don't really have any needs. Williams is one of the better offensive lineman in this draft and the Eagles offensive line is aging so this would be a solid pick.
1. Cleveland Browns- Sam Darnold, Quarterback, USC: Although they did trade for Tyrod Taylor, he's not the long term answer for a team that needs a long term/possible franchise quarterback for the future. Darnold could be that due to his leadership, good throwing arm, clutch play as he's shown at the collegiate level, and his athleticism.
2. New York Giants- Josh Allen, Quarterback, Wyoming: Some mock drafts have Big Blue taking Saquon Barkley or Bradley Chubb here, but after the blockbuster Jets-Colts trade, something tells me Dave Gettleman plans on taking Eli Manning's successor. With all the smoke Jim Mora is throwing at Josh Rosen, the Giants take Allen, who has the most upside among the quarterbacks due to his athleticism, arm strength, and size and draws comparisons to Carson Wentz.
3. New York Jets (from Indianapolis Colts)- Josh Rosen, Quarterback, UCLA: Rosen's stock is dropping due to his concussion issues and his former coach Jim Mora throwing him under the bus. Rosen is perhaps the safest bet in this draft (in terms of quarterbacks) due to his accuracy and refined throwing mechanics.
4. Cleveland Browns (from Houston Texans)- Saquon Barkley, Running Back, Penn State: The Browns did sign Carlos Hyde in free agency, but there is still talk of the Browns taking Barkley first and a quarterback fourth. Barkley is the drafts best player and he can do pretty much everything.
5. Denver Broncos- Baker Mayfield, Quarterback, Oklahoma: Although they did sign Case Keenum, he's not the long-term answer at quarterback. The Broncos love Mayfield and he has a ton of potential with his gunslinger mentality although due to his height and off the court antics, is compared to Johnny Manziel.
6. Indianapolis Colts (from New York Jets)- Bradley Chubb, Defensive End, North Carolina State: This was a home run trade for the Colts and it would become a grand slam if they land either Chubb or Barkley here. Chubb will be a great fit in the Colts 4-3 defense and he's a three-down back that would help them stop the likes of DeShaun Watson and Marcus Mariota within their division.
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Minkah Fitzpatrick, Safety, Alabama: This would be a steal here for the Bucs, who have a bigger need for a pass-rusher, so instead take Fitzpatrick to bolster their secondary. Fitzpatrick's versatility makes him special and he's perhaps the best defensive player in this draft.
8. Chicago Bears- Quenton Nelson, Guard, Notre Dame: The Bears have a need at edge rusher and with Chubb off the board, they address their need at left guard and Nelson fits the bill. Nelson seems like a sure thing and worthy of a top-ten pick and will help the Bears on the interior of the offensive line and will serve good for Mitch Trubisky.
9. San Francisco 49ers- Tremaine Edmunds, Linebacker, Virginia Tech: The Niners snag Edmunds here to improve their linebacking corps. Edmunds is nineteen years old and his athleticism would give the Niners young defense a different look to go with Reuben Foster.
10. Oakland Raiders- Denzel Ward, Cornerback, Ohio State: Ward dropping this far would be a steal for the Silver And Black. Ward isn't the biggest cornerback in the draft but he can cover skills that are hard to come by in the league.
11. Miami Dolphins- Roquan Smith, Linebacker, Georgia: Smith brings speed and athleticism and that would be much needed for this Dolphins defense, that needs some youth. This is a possible steal here.
12. Buffalo Bills (from Cincinnati Bengals)- Mike McGlinchey, Offensive Tackle, Notre Dame: After the trading of Cody Glenn, the Bills have a need on the offensive line. McGlinchey isn't that strong, but he's athletic and brings stability.
13. Washington Redskins- Derwin James, Strong Safety, Florida State: Perhaps the best defensive playmaker in the draft, James is the new NFL prototype as a safety capable of producing against the run or in both man and zone coverage. Florida State also used him as a pure edge rusher, where he regularly pressured the quarterback.
14. Green Bay Packers- Harold Landry, Linebacker, Boston College: With Ward off the board, the Packers go with Landry here to improve their pass rush. Landry did not have a great season in his final season at BC, but he should still be a solid pro.
15. Arizona Cardinals- Lamar Jackson, Quarterback, Louisville: The Cards are another trade up candidate, but here I have them selecting Jackson, who's a good decision maker and passer. The Cards know that Mike Glennon and Sam Bradford are not the long-term answers and Jackson would in theory be in a red-shirt situation here and a long-term foundation of Jackson and David Johnson is tough to pass up on.
16. Baltimore Ravens- Calvin Ridley, Wide Receiver, Alabama: The Ravens have lacked a big-threat receiver for years now and they get one here with Ridley, although they did sign John Brown and Michael Crabtree. Ridley brings a downfield, speedy option on the outside that would bring a different look to the Ravens offense.
17. Los Angeles Chargers- Da'Ron Payne, Defensive Tackle, Alabama: The Chargers pose what is arguably the best edge rushing duo in the league with Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram. Adding someone like Payne would only make that defensive line better.
18. Seattle Seahawks- Isaiah Wynn, Guard, Georgia: Wynn would bring a nice upgrade to a Seahawks offensive line to protect Russell Wilson and take pressure off the running game. Wynn can play tackle if needed but will succeed as a guard instantly. He plays with outstanding leverage and has the athleticism to mirror pass-rushers.
19. Dallas Cowboys- Maurice Hurst, Defensive Tackle, Michigan: Hurst had a heart condition at the combine and that shouldn't drop him out of the first round. Hurst doesn't have the size that teams are generally looking for in an interior defensive lineman, but his quickness more than makes up for that deficiency and makes him in particular a great threat rushing the passer on third downs.
20. Detroit Lions- Vita Vea, Denfensive Tackle, Washington: Vea, a massive presence in the middle of a defensive line, will go a long way toward fixing that deficiency, while also providing enough quickness to penetrate into the backfield on some third downs. He would be a great fit in Matt Patricia's defense.
21. Cincinnati Bengals (from Buffalo Bills)- Leighton Vander Esch, Linebacker, Boise State: Vander Esch is rising up many peoples mocks drafts of late. With Vontez Burfict suspended to start the season and his future with the team up in the air, the Bengals take Vander Esch to bolster their linebacking core.
22. Buffalo Bills (from Kansas City Chiefs)- Mason Rudolph, Quarterback, Oklahoma State: The Bills are a strong candidate to trade up for a quarterback, but I don't do trades in my mock drafts so here I have them selecting Rudolph. He's an experienced pocket passer with nice downfield touch.
23. New England Patriots (from Los Angeles Rams)- Marcus Davenport, Defensive End, UTSA: Davenport is a bit of a wild card since he's from a Group Of 5 school. The Pats are a nice landing spot for Davenport as he gets to learn under Bill Belichick and that defensive staff and would provide much needed youth to the Pats pass rush.
24. Carolina Panthers- Will Hernandez, Guard, UTEP: No brainer pick here as the Panthers find their replacement for Andrew Norwell. Hernandez is big and powerful and he provides mobility.
25. Tennessee Titans- Rashaan Evans, Linebacker, Alabama: Evans brings an athletic presence who can fill multiple roles. He was more of an edge defender early in his career, and he pressured the quarterback on 67 of his 284 career rushes. However, he also showed well in a more traditional role over the last two years.
26. Atlanta Falcons- Taven Bryan, Defensive End, Florida: The Falcons don't have any major needs, but bolstering the defensive line could be necessary if Dontari Poe leaves in free agency. Bryan has drawn comparisons to JJ Watt and will bring depth to the Falcons defensive line.
27. New Orleans Saints- Dallas Goedert, Tight End, South Dakota State: Goedert's draft stock is trending up although there are some concerns due to injury. Goedert would be a nice weapon for Drew Brees.
28. Pittsburgh Steelers- Mike Hughes, Cornerback, UCF: Hughes is a player trending up many peoples mock boards and people have him pegged in the top 15, but I don't see him being drafted that high. Hughes would fit nicely with Artie Burns in the Steelers secondary.
29. Jacksonville Jaguars- Courtland Sutton, Wide Receiver, SMU: With the Jags losing Allen Robinson in free agency, they replace him with Sutton, who could be a steal. Sutton put together back-to-back seasons of 1,000 yards and 10 TDs, and he scored 32 times in all in his three seasons with the Mustangs.
30. Minnesota Vikings- Billy Price, Guard, Ohio State: Price would be a nice addition to a Vikings team that can use offensive line help to protect Kirk Cousins. Price would be a great target for them as a potential replacement for Joe Berger inside. Price would be one of the better starting centers in the league, so the Vikings have the option of sticking him at the pivot immediately and having Pat Elflein compete at a guard spot.
31. New England Patriots- Arden Key, Defensive End/Linebacker, LSU: Key is a prospect trending down on mock boards. The premier pass-rusher dealt with injuries himself in 2017, but he's impressed against top SEC talent and should be a constant sack threat in the NFL if he can stay on the field.
32. Philadelphia Eagles- Connor Williams, Offensive Tackle, Texas: The Eagles don't really have any needs. Williams is one of the better offensive lineman in this draft and the Eagles offensive line is aging so this would be a solid pick.
Tuesday, April 10, 2018
2018 Stanley Cup Playoffs: Quarterfinal Predictions
Here are my predictions for the Quarterfinals of the 2018 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
Eastern Conference
(A1) Tampa Bay Lightning vs (WC2) New Jersey Devils: The Lightning are back among the leagues elite teams after a disappointing season a year ago in which they were in the lottery. The Devils are back in the playoffs after five years in the lottery. The Bolts are an elite offensive team led by Steven Stamkos, Nikita Kucherov, and Brayden Point and the Devils are a solid offensive team led by Taylor Hall, Nico Hischier, and Kyle Palmieri. The Bolts defense is improved with the trade acquisition of Ryan McDonagh to go with Victor Hedman, Anton Stralman, and Dan Girardi to form a nice four-some and the Devils defense is improved as well with the trade acquisition of Sami Vatanen.
Eastern Conference
(A1) Tampa Bay Lightning vs (WC2) New Jersey Devils: The Lightning are back among the leagues elite teams after a disappointing season a year ago in which they were in the lottery. The Devils are back in the playoffs after five years in the lottery. The Bolts are an elite offensive team led by Steven Stamkos, Nikita Kucherov, and Brayden Point and the Devils are a solid offensive team led by Taylor Hall, Nico Hischier, and Kyle Palmieri. The Bolts defense is improved with the trade acquisition of Ryan McDonagh to go with Victor Hedman, Anton Stralman, and Dan Girardi to form a nice four-some and the Devils defense is improved as well with the trade acquisition of Sami Vatanen.
Andrei Vasilevskiy has had a good season in net and is a candidate for the Vezina Trophy and Keith Kinkaid has done very well in net for the Devils filling in for Corey Schnieder and Kinkaid will likely be the starter for the playoffs. Hall, who's a Hart Trophy candidate could very well be the best player in this series, but the Bolts are the deeper and better team and have the advantage in net with Vasilevskiy.
Prediction: Lightning in six games.
(A2) Boston Bruins vs (A3) Toronto Maple Leafs: This is the best series of the first round. The Bruins could have been playing the Devils, but they lost their season finale against the Panthers to end up playing the Leafs, who are back in the playoffs for a second straight season. The Bruins are great offensively led by Brad Marchand, Patrice Bergeron, David Pasternak, and trade acquisition Rick Nash. The Leafs are great offensively too led by Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, and William Nylander. The Bruins defense is really good led by veteran Zdeno Chara and rookie Charlie McAvoy. The Leafs defense is solid too led by Jake Gardiner and Morgan Reilly. Both teams have solid goaltending with Tukka Rask for the Bruins and Frederick Andersen for the Leafs. The best player in this series could very well be Matthews, but the Bruins are just deeper this time around and I like them to win a classic series.
Prediction: Bruins in seven games.
(M1) Washington Capitals vs (WC1) Columbus Blue Jackets: The Caps have won three straight division titles and have home ice in the first two rounds yet again. The Jackets are back in the postseason for the second straight season under John Tortorella. The Caps are still great offensively led by Alex Ovechkin, Nik Backstrom, TJ Oshie, and Evgeny Kuznestov. The Jackets are really good offensively too led by Artemi Panarin, Cam Atkinson, and rookie Pierre Luc-Dubois. The Caps are really good defensively led by John Carlson and Dmitry Orlov as well as the Jackets led by Seth Jones and Zach Werenski. Brayden Holtby has been mediocre this season and the Caps made a ballsy move by making backup Philipp Grubauer the game one starter. Sergei Brovovsky is a candidate for the Vezina Trophy as he usually is. Despite the goalie change for the Caps, they are the better team led by Ovechkin and I like them to advance.
Prediction: Capitals in six games.
(M2) Pittsburgh Penguins vs (M3) Philadelphia Flyers: This is right up there with Bruins/Leafs for the best first round series. The Pens are looking to three-peat as Stanley Cup champions to form a somewhat of a mini dynasty. The Flyers are in the playoffs for the third time in five seasons as they had to take them until the final game of the season to clinch this year. The Pens are still loaded offensively led by Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Phil Kessel who have all been outstanding this season. The Flyers are also loaded offensively led by Claude Giroux, Jakub Voracek, and Sean Couturier. The Pens are still solid defensively led by Kris Letang and Olli Määttä and the Flyers aren't bad defensively either led by Shayne Gostisbehere. Matt Murray is really good in net for the Pens and the Flyers are going to roll with a Brian Elliott and Petr Mrazek platoon in net. This is going to be a classic series and I like Crosby and the Pens.
Prediction: Penguins in seven games.
Western Conference
(C1) Nashville Predators vs (WC2) Colorado Avalanche: The Preds, after losing the Stanley Cup Final a year ago are now President Trophy winners and want to get back to the Final this year. The Avs after being the worst team in the league a year ago are here in the playoffs for the first time since 2014. The Preds are loaded offensively led by Filip Forsberg, Viktor Arvidsson, and Ryan Johansen and the Avs are very good offensively too led by Hart Trophy candidate Nathan MacKinnon, Mikko Rantanen, and Gabriel Landeskog. The Preds defense is among the best in the league led by Roman Josi and PK Subban. The Avs defense isn't that bad led by Tyson Barrie. Pekka Rinne has been outstanding in net this season for the Preds and the Avs lost Semyon Varlamov for the season with a knee injury and now Jonathan Bernier is their starter. The Preds are just flat out better and I like them to pull off a sweep, although a five game series isn't out of the question.
Prediction: Predators in four games.
(C2) Winnipeg Jets vs (C3) Minnesota Wild: The Jets are back in the playoffs after missing out the last two seasons. The Wild are back in the playoffs yet again for the sixth year in a row. The Jets are great offensively led by Patrick Laine and Blake Wheeler. The Wild are really good offensively too led by Eric Staal, Jason Zucker, and Mikael Granlund. The Jets defense is solid led by Dustin Byfuglien, but the Wild have a really good defense led by Jared Spurgeron and Matthew Dumba, but they did lose Ryan Suter for the season due to the ankle injury. Connor Hellebuyck has been outstanding in net this season and Devan Dubnyk is really good in net as well. This would have been a more interesting series if the Wild had a healthy roster, but I think the Jets sneak by to advance.
Prediction: Jets in six games.
(P1) Vegas Golden Knights vs (WC1) Los Angeles Kings: The Golden Knights were supposed to be among the leagues worst teams, but here they are in the playoffs. The Kings are back in the postseason after missing out a season ago under new coach John Stevens. The Golden Knights are really good offensively led by William Karlsson, Jonathan Marchessault, David Perron, and Reilly Smith. The Kings are good offensively led by Anze Kopitar, Dustin Brown, and Tyler Tofolli. The Golden Knights aren't too bad defensively led by Nate Schmidt and Colin Miller. The Kings are really good defensively led by Drew Doughty, Alec Martinez, and Jake Muzzin. Marc-Andre Fleury has been in big games before in net when he was on the Pens and that will help the Knights. Jonathan Quick has won two cups with the Kings and he's usually good in playoff hockey. This was a tough call, but I like the Kings to pull off somewhat of an upset.
Prediction: Kings in six games.
(P2) Anaheim Ducks vs (P3) San Jose Sharks: This is the first rounds most underrated series. The Ducks are in the playoffs for the sixth straight season and the Sharks are back in the postseason for the third year in a row under Peter DeBoer. The Ducks are very good offensively led by Rickard Rakell, Corey Perry, and Ryan Getzlaf. The Sharks are also really good offensively led by Joe Pavelski and Logan Couture. The Ducks are really good defensively led by Hampus Lindholm and Josh Manson, but Cam Fowler is out for at least this round with a shoulder injury. The Sharks defense is underrated led by Brent Burns and Marc-Édouard Vlasic. Both goalies are underrated in John Gibson for the Ducks and Martin Jones with the Sharks. These teams are evenly matched and with home ice advantage, give me the Ducks.
Prediction: Ducks in seven games.
Prediction: Bruins in seven games.
(M1) Washington Capitals vs (WC1) Columbus Blue Jackets: The Caps have won three straight division titles and have home ice in the first two rounds yet again. The Jackets are back in the postseason for the second straight season under John Tortorella. The Caps are still great offensively led by Alex Ovechkin, Nik Backstrom, TJ Oshie, and Evgeny Kuznestov. The Jackets are really good offensively too led by Artemi Panarin, Cam Atkinson, and rookie Pierre Luc-Dubois. The Caps are really good defensively led by John Carlson and Dmitry Orlov as well as the Jackets led by Seth Jones and Zach Werenski. Brayden Holtby has been mediocre this season and the Caps made a ballsy move by making backup Philipp Grubauer the game one starter. Sergei Brovovsky is a candidate for the Vezina Trophy as he usually is. Despite the goalie change for the Caps, they are the better team led by Ovechkin and I like them to advance.
Prediction: Capitals in six games.
(M2) Pittsburgh Penguins vs (M3) Philadelphia Flyers: This is right up there with Bruins/Leafs for the best first round series. The Pens are looking to three-peat as Stanley Cup champions to form a somewhat of a mini dynasty. The Flyers are in the playoffs for the third time in five seasons as they had to take them until the final game of the season to clinch this year. The Pens are still loaded offensively led by Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Phil Kessel who have all been outstanding this season. The Flyers are also loaded offensively led by Claude Giroux, Jakub Voracek, and Sean Couturier. The Pens are still solid defensively led by Kris Letang and Olli Määttä and the Flyers aren't bad defensively either led by Shayne Gostisbehere. Matt Murray is really good in net for the Pens and the Flyers are going to roll with a Brian Elliott and Petr Mrazek platoon in net. This is going to be a classic series and I like Crosby and the Pens.
Prediction: Penguins in seven games.
Western Conference
(C1) Nashville Predators vs (WC2) Colorado Avalanche: The Preds, after losing the Stanley Cup Final a year ago are now President Trophy winners and want to get back to the Final this year. The Avs after being the worst team in the league a year ago are here in the playoffs for the first time since 2014. The Preds are loaded offensively led by Filip Forsberg, Viktor Arvidsson, and Ryan Johansen and the Avs are very good offensively too led by Hart Trophy candidate Nathan MacKinnon, Mikko Rantanen, and Gabriel Landeskog. The Preds defense is among the best in the league led by Roman Josi and PK Subban. The Avs defense isn't that bad led by Tyson Barrie. Pekka Rinne has been outstanding in net this season for the Preds and the Avs lost Semyon Varlamov for the season with a knee injury and now Jonathan Bernier is their starter. The Preds are just flat out better and I like them to pull off a sweep, although a five game series isn't out of the question.
Prediction: Predators in four games.
(C2) Winnipeg Jets vs (C3) Minnesota Wild: The Jets are back in the playoffs after missing out the last two seasons. The Wild are back in the playoffs yet again for the sixth year in a row. The Jets are great offensively led by Patrick Laine and Blake Wheeler. The Wild are really good offensively too led by Eric Staal, Jason Zucker, and Mikael Granlund. The Jets defense is solid led by Dustin Byfuglien, but the Wild have a really good defense led by Jared Spurgeron and Matthew Dumba, but they did lose Ryan Suter for the season due to the ankle injury. Connor Hellebuyck has been outstanding in net this season and Devan Dubnyk is really good in net as well. This would have been a more interesting series if the Wild had a healthy roster, but I think the Jets sneak by to advance.
Prediction: Jets in six games.
(P1) Vegas Golden Knights vs (WC1) Los Angeles Kings: The Golden Knights were supposed to be among the leagues worst teams, but here they are in the playoffs. The Kings are back in the postseason after missing out a season ago under new coach John Stevens. The Golden Knights are really good offensively led by William Karlsson, Jonathan Marchessault, David Perron, and Reilly Smith. The Kings are good offensively led by Anze Kopitar, Dustin Brown, and Tyler Tofolli. The Golden Knights aren't too bad defensively led by Nate Schmidt and Colin Miller. The Kings are really good defensively led by Drew Doughty, Alec Martinez, and Jake Muzzin. Marc-Andre Fleury has been in big games before in net when he was on the Pens and that will help the Knights. Jonathan Quick has won two cups with the Kings and he's usually good in playoff hockey. This was a tough call, but I like the Kings to pull off somewhat of an upset.
Prediction: Kings in six games.
(P2) Anaheim Ducks vs (P3) San Jose Sharks: This is the first rounds most underrated series. The Ducks are in the playoffs for the sixth straight season and the Sharks are back in the postseason for the third year in a row under Peter DeBoer. The Ducks are very good offensively led by Rickard Rakell, Corey Perry, and Ryan Getzlaf. The Sharks are also really good offensively led by Joe Pavelski and Logan Couture. The Ducks are really good defensively led by Hampus Lindholm and Josh Manson, but Cam Fowler is out for at least this round with a shoulder injury. The Sharks defense is underrated led by Brent Burns and Marc-Édouard Vlasic. Both goalies are underrated in John Gibson for the Ducks and Martin Jones with the Sharks. These teams are evenly matched and with home ice advantage, give me the Ducks.
Prediction: Ducks in seven games.
Monday, April 9, 2018
2016 NHL Re-Draft
Here I'm going to re-draft the First Round of the 2016 NHL Draft. How many picks will be the same? How many picks will be different?
1. Toronto Maple Leafs- Auston Matthews, Center, Zurich, Switzerland: No due-over here as the Leafs take their franchise guy in Matthews, who has lived up to hype since day one. Despite missing 20 games this season, he still managed to put up 63 points in 62 games and he'll be a Hart Trophy candidate for years to come.
Actual Pick: Matthews
2. Winnipeg Jets- Patrik Laine, Wing, Tappara, Finland: No due-over for the Jets as they take their guy in Laine, who's right up there with Matthews among the leagues best young players. Laine tallied 69 points in 80 games this season and he'll be a top goal scorer and a Hart Trophy candidate for years to come as well.
Actual Pick: Laine
3. Columbus Blue Jackets- Matthew Tkachuk, Wing, London (OHL): The Jackets do a semi-due over here as they take Tkachuk here, who's shown to be a top six forward with the Flames. Tkachuk tallied 49 points in 69 games and he would slide into the Jackets top six nicely sans their surplus of forwards.
Actual Pick: Pierre-Luc Dubois, Wing/Center, Cape Breton (QMJHL)
4. Edmonton Oilers- Mikhail Sergachev, Defenseman, Windsor (OHL): Sergachev was perceived as the best defenseman in this draft class and he has owned up to that billing as he's shown with the Bolts this season after the Habs traded him away last summer. Sergachev posted 40 points in 79 games this season as the Habs probably regret trading him away for Jonathan Drouin as they are about to begin a rebuild perhaps.
Actual Pick: Jesse Puljujarvi, Wing, Karpat, Finland
5. Vancouver Canucks- Charlie McAvoy, Defenseman, Boston University (NCAA): McAvoy is easily the second best defenseman from this draft class as he's proven to be a steal at where the Bruins selected him. McAvoy posted 32 points in 59 games this season and probably has other teams regret passing up on him.
Actual Pick: Olli Juolevi, Defenseman, London Knights (OHL)
6. Calgary Flames- Pierre-Luc Dubois, Wing/Center, Cape Breton (QMJHL): With Tkachuk off the board, the Flames take Luc-Dubois, who would be a solid choice here. Luc-Dubois put up 37 points in 62 games this season and has room to grow as a player.
Actual Pick: Matthew Tkachuk, Wing, London (OHL)
7. Arizona Coyotes- Clayton Keller, Center, U.S. National Development Team: No due-over for the Coyotes as they take their guy in Keller, who had a great season for the Coyotes this season. Keller put up 52 points in 71 games this season and he'll be a top six forward for the Coyotes for years to come.
Actual Pick: Keller
8. Buffalo Sabres- Alex DeBrincat, Center/Wing, Erie (OHL): DeBrincat has proven to be a huge steal at where the Blackhawks selected him in the second round. DeBrincat posted 52 points in 82 games this season and will be a very good player for the Blackhawks as they go forward. Imagine DeBrincat playing alongside Jack Eichel?
Actual Pick: Alexander Nylander, Wing, Mississauga (OHL)
9. Montreal Canaidens- Dante Fabbro, Defenseman, Penticton (BCHL): With Sergachev off the board, the Habs take Fabbro here, who has top-four potential and would be a nice piece for the Habs going forward. Fabbro was talked about heavily at the trade deadline and the Preds kept him put for a reason. He should be on the Preds to begin next season.
Actual Pick: Mikhail Sergachev, Defenseman, Windsor (OHL)
10. Colorado Avalanche- Jordan Koryu, Center, Sarnia (OHL): Koryu has proven to be a total steal at where the Blues took him in the second round. Koryu was sought after at the trade deadline as teams tried to trade rentals to the Blues for a return that featured Koryu. Imagine Koryu playing behind Nathan McKinnon for the next decade?
Actual Pick: Tyson Jost, Center, Penticton (BCHL)
11. Ottawa Senators (from New Jersey Devils)- Jesse Puljujarvi, Wing, Karpat, Finland: Puljujarvi is the choice here as he drops from where he was originally drafted and this could have been a steal for the Sens. Puljujarvi tallied 20 points in 56 games and would have been more points if he played a full 82 games. He has room to grow as a player and could have been a nice piece for a team about to enter a rebuild.
Actual Pick: Logan Brown, Center, Windsor (OHL)
12. New Jersey Devils (from Ottawa Senators)- Henrik Borgstrom, Center, HIFK-JR, Finland: Borgstrom has proven to be a steal at where the Panthers selected him in this draft. Borgstrom put up 52 points in 40 games in college this year and saw some NHL action at the end of this season. He surely would start next season with the Panthers and he could have been a nice fit behind Nico Hischier in Jersey.
Actual Pick: Michael McLeod, Center, Mississauga (OHL)
13. Carolina Hurricanes- Logan Brown, Center, Windsor (OHL): Brown is the choice here as he falls a couple spots from where he was originally drafted. Brown put up 24 points in 15 games in the OHL this season and saw four games with the Sens this season as well. He will certainly begin next season in Ottawa and would have been a nice fit in Carolina too.
Actual Pick: Jake Bean, Defenseman, Calgary (WHL)
14. Boston Bruins- Michael McLeod, Center, Mississauga (OHL): McLeod is the choice here with Charlie McAvoy off the board. McLeod has put up gaudy numbers in the OHL and could start next season with the Devils. McLeod probably would have been trade bait for the Bruins with their depth at center.
Actual Pick: Charlie McAvoy, Defenseman, Boston University (NCAA)
15. Minnesota Wild- Tyson Jost, Center, Penticton (BCHL): Jost falling here would be a steal for the Wild. Jost put up 22 points in 65 games with the Avs this season and has room to grow as a player. He could have been a third or fourth line center for the Wild.
Actual Pick: Luke Kunin, Center, Wisconsin (NCAA)
16. Arizona Coyotes (from Detroit Red Wings)- Dennis Cholowski, Defenseman, Chilliwack: Cholowski has proven to be a steal at where the Red Wings traded back and took him. Cholowski put up 66 points in 69 WHL games this season and may have the Coyotes regret taking him as he would have fit nicely with Olivier Ekman-Larsson on the blueline there in Arizona.
Actual Pick: Jakob Chychrun, Defenseman, Sarnia (OHL)
17. Nashville Predators- Jake Bean, Defenseman, Calgary (WHL): With Fabbro off the board, the Preds take another young and promising defenseman in Bean. He posted 27 points in 25 games in the WHL this season and figures to be in the Canes long term plans and could have fit nicely with the Preds.
Actual Pick: Dante Fabbro, Defenseman, Penticton (BCHL)
18. Winnipeg Jets (from Philadelphia Flyers)- Jakob Chychrun, Defenseman, Sarnia (OHL): Chychrun drops a couple spots from where he was originally drafted as the Jets snag him here. Chychrun has tallied 34 points in 118 NHL games in two seasons and has room to grow as a player.
Actual Pick: Logan Stanley, Defenseman, Windsor (OHL)
19. New York Islanders- Olli Juolevi, Defenseman, London Knights (OHL): The Isles snag up Juolevi here as they hope to snag a steal here in the re-draft. Juolevi has put up nice numbers in the OHL, but hasn't panned out as quickly as the Canucks thought. He'll probably be on the Canucks to begin next season as they continue their rebuild and he would have been a promising piece on this Isles team that could be entering a rebuild if John Tavares departs this summer.
Actual Pick: Michael McLeod, Center, Mississauga (OHL)
20. Detroit Red Wings (from New York Rangers via Arizona Coyotes)- Alexander Nylander, Wing, Mississauga (OHL): With Cholowski off the board, the Wings go with Nylander, who would be a steal sliding this far. Nylander had nice stats in the OHL, but did not do that much with Sabres this past season and he has room to grow as a player.
Actual Pick: Dennis Cholowski, Defenseman, Chilliwack
21. Carolina Hurricanes (from Los Angeles Kings)- Sam Steel, Center, Regina (WHL): Steel has proven to be a steal where the Ducks selected him. Steel put up very good numbers in the WHL and could find himself on the Ducks next season and would have been a nice depth piece for the Canes.
Actual Pick: Julien Gauthier, Wing, Val-d’Or (QMJHL)
22. Philadelphia Flyers (from Chicago Blackhawks via Winnipeg Jets)- Trent Frederic, Center, US-NTDP (USHL): Frederic has proven to be a steal for the Bruins at where they selected him. Frederic put up solid numbers in college and could start next season on the Bruins if he wanted to or they can
use him as trade bait.
Actual Pick: German Rubstov, Center, RussiaU18 (MHL)
23. Florida Panthers- Riley Tufte, Wing, Fargo Force (USHL): With Borgstrom off the board, the Panthers go with Tufte, who is a bit of a project. Tufte didn't put up great numbers this season in college so I bet he stays in college another year to develop and than in 2019 ends up on the Stars
roster.
Actual Pick: Henrik Borgstrom, Center, HIFK-JR, Finland
24. Anaheim Ducks- Samuel Girard, Defenseman, Swianigan (QMJHL): Girard has proven to be a steal at where the Preds took him in the second round as they traded him away to the Avs since they had a surplus of defenseman. Girard has been solid for the Avs this season as they got a nice return in the Matt Duchene trade.
Actual Pick: Max Jones, Wing, London (OHL)
25. Dallas Stars- Julien Gauthier, Wing, Val-d’Or (QMJHL): With Tufte off the board, the Stars take another wing in Gauthier, who has put up nice stats in the QMJHL. He'll probably start next season on the Canes and he'd be a nice fit on the Stars as well.
Actual Pick: Riley Tufte, Wing, Fargo Force (USHL)
26. St. Louis Blues (from Washington Capitals)- Max Jones, Wing, London (OHL): The Blues go with Jones here, who has shown a ton of potential in the OHL. He could start next season on the Ducks possibly and if he were on the Blues, he'd probably be a bottom six guy to start due to their forward depth.
Actual Pick: Tage Thompson, Center, Connecticut (NCAA)
27. Tampa Bay Lightning- German Rubstov, Center, RussiaU18 (MHL): The Bolts go with Rubstov here, who falls a few spots and could have been a steal here. Rubstov put up solid numbers in the MHL and could end up being trade bait for the Flyers due to their forward depth or start next season on the team.
Actual Pick: Brett Howden, Center, Moose Jaw (WHL)
28. Washington Capitals (from St. Louis Blues)- Luke Kunin, Center, Wisconsin (NCAA): Kunin falling this far would be a steal for the Caps. Kunin was solid in the AHL this season and put up 4 points in 13 games with the Wild this season.
Actual Pick: Lucas Johansen, Defenseman, Kelowna (WHL)
29. Boston Bruins (from San Jose Sharks)- Brett Howden, Center, Moose Jaw (WHL): With Frederic off the board, the Bruins take another center in Howden, who has shown some potential. The Bolts traded him away to the Rangers in the Ryan McDonagh/JT Miller trade and he could see some time with the Rangers next season as they enter a new era.
Actual Pick: Trent Frederic, Center, US-NTDP (USHL)
30. Anaheim Ducks- Lucas Johansen, Defenseman, Kelowna (WHL): With Steel off the board, the Ducks go with Johansen to keep building their defense depth. Johansen has put up solid numbers in the WHL and could see time with the Caps next season.
Actual Pick: Sam Steel, Center, Regina (WHL)
1. Toronto Maple Leafs- Auston Matthews, Center, Zurich, Switzerland: No due-over here as the Leafs take their franchise guy in Matthews, who has lived up to hype since day one. Despite missing 20 games this season, he still managed to put up 63 points in 62 games and he'll be a Hart Trophy candidate for years to come.
Actual Pick: Matthews
2. Winnipeg Jets- Patrik Laine, Wing, Tappara, Finland: No due-over for the Jets as they take their guy in Laine, who's right up there with Matthews among the leagues best young players. Laine tallied 69 points in 80 games this season and he'll be a top goal scorer and a Hart Trophy candidate for years to come as well.
Actual Pick: Laine
3. Columbus Blue Jackets- Matthew Tkachuk, Wing, London (OHL): The Jackets do a semi-due over here as they take Tkachuk here, who's shown to be a top six forward with the Flames. Tkachuk tallied 49 points in 69 games and he would slide into the Jackets top six nicely sans their surplus of forwards.
Actual Pick: Pierre-Luc Dubois, Wing/Center, Cape Breton (QMJHL)
4. Edmonton Oilers- Mikhail Sergachev, Defenseman, Windsor (OHL): Sergachev was perceived as the best defenseman in this draft class and he has owned up to that billing as he's shown with the Bolts this season after the Habs traded him away last summer. Sergachev posted 40 points in 79 games this season as the Habs probably regret trading him away for Jonathan Drouin as they are about to begin a rebuild perhaps.
Actual Pick: Jesse Puljujarvi, Wing, Karpat, Finland
5. Vancouver Canucks- Charlie McAvoy, Defenseman, Boston University (NCAA): McAvoy is easily the second best defenseman from this draft class as he's proven to be a steal at where the Bruins selected him. McAvoy posted 32 points in 59 games this season and probably has other teams regret passing up on him.
Actual Pick: Olli Juolevi, Defenseman, London Knights (OHL)
6. Calgary Flames- Pierre-Luc Dubois, Wing/Center, Cape Breton (QMJHL): With Tkachuk off the board, the Flames take Luc-Dubois, who would be a solid choice here. Luc-Dubois put up 37 points in 62 games this season and has room to grow as a player.
Actual Pick: Matthew Tkachuk, Wing, London (OHL)
7. Arizona Coyotes- Clayton Keller, Center, U.S. National Development Team: No due-over for the Coyotes as they take their guy in Keller, who had a great season for the Coyotes this season. Keller put up 52 points in 71 games this season and he'll be a top six forward for the Coyotes for years to come.
Actual Pick: Keller
8. Buffalo Sabres- Alex DeBrincat, Center/Wing, Erie (OHL): DeBrincat has proven to be a huge steal at where the Blackhawks selected him in the second round. DeBrincat posted 52 points in 82 games this season and will be a very good player for the Blackhawks as they go forward. Imagine DeBrincat playing alongside Jack Eichel?
Actual Pick: Alexander Nylander, Wing, Mississauga (OHL)
9. Montreal Canaidens- Dante Fabbro, Defenseman, Penticton (BCHL): With Sergachev off the board, the Habs take Fabbro here, who has top-four potential and would be a nice piece for the Habs going forward. Fabbro was talked about heavily at the trade deadline and the Preds kept him put for a reason. He should be on the Preds to begin next season.
Actual Pick: Mikhail Sergachev, Defenseman, Windsor (OHL)
10. Colorado Avalanche- Jordan Koryu, Center, Sarnia (OHL): Koryu has proven to be a total steal at where the Blues took him in the second round. Koryu was sought after at the trade deadline as teams tried to trade rentals to the Blues for a return that featured Koryu. Imagine Koryu playing behind Nathan McKinnon for the next decade?
Actual Pick: Tyson Jost, Center, Penticton (BCHL)
11. Ottawa Senators (from New Jersey Devils)- Jesse Puljujarvi, Wing, Karpat, Finland: Puljujarvi is the choice here as he drops from where he was originally drafted and this could have been a steal for the Sens. Puljujarvi tallied 20 points in 56 games and would have been more points if he played a full 82 games. He has room to grow as a player and could have been a nice piece for a team about to enter a rebuild.
Actual Pick: Logan Brown, Center, Windsor (OHL)
12. New Jersey Devils (from Ottawa Senators)- Henrik Borgstrom, Center, HIFK-JR, Finland: Borgstrom has proven to be a steal at where the Panthers selected him in this draft. Borgstrom put up 52 points in 40 games in college this year and saw some NHL action at the end of this season. He surely would start next season with the Panthers and he could have been a nice fit behind Nico Hischier in Jersey.
Actual Pick: Michael McLeod, Center, Mississauga (OHL)
13. Carolina Hurricanes- Logan Brown, Center, Windsor (OHL): Brown is the choice here as he falls a couple spots from where he was originally drafted. Brown put up 24 points in 15 games in the OHL this season and saw four games with the Sens this season as well. He will certainly begin next season in Ottawa and would have been a nice fit in Carolina too.
Actual Pick: Jake Bean, Defenseman, Calgary (WHL)
14. Boston Bruins- Michael McLeod, Center, Mississauga (OHL): McLeod is the choice here with Charlie McAvoy off the board. McLeod has put up gaudy numbers in the OHL and could start next season with the Devils. McLeod probably would have been trade bait for the Bruins with their depth at center.
Actual Pick: Charlie McAvoy, Defenseman, Boston University (NCAA)
15. Minnesota Wild- Tyson Jost, Center, Penticton (BCHL): Jost falling here would be a steal for the Wild. Jost put up 22 points in 65 games with the Avs this season and has room to grow as a player. He could have been a third or fourth line center for the Wild.
Actual Pick: Luke Kunin, Center, Wisconsin (NCAA)
16. Arizona Coyotes (from Detroit Red Wings)- Dennis Cholowski, Defenseman, Chilliwack: Cholowski has proven to be a steal at where the Red Wings traded back and took him. Cholowski put up 66 points in 69 WHL games this season and may have the Coyotes regret taking him as he would have fit nicely with Olivier Ekman-Larsson on the blueline there in Arizona.
Actual Pick: Jakob Chychrun, Defenseman, Sarnia (OHL)
17. Nashville Predators- Jake Bean, Defenseman, Calgary (WHL): With Fabbro off the board, the Preds take another young and promising defenseman in Bean. He posted 27 points in 25 games in the WHL this season and figures to be in the Canes long term plans and could have fit nicely with the Preds.
Actual Pick: Dante Fabbro, Defenseman, Penticton (BCHL)
18. Winnipeg Jets (from Philadelphia Flyers)- Jakob Chychrun, Defenseman, Sarnia (OHL): Chychrun drops a couple spots from where he was originally drafted as the Jets snag him here. Chychrun has tallied 34 points in 118 NHL games in two seasons and has room to grow as a player.
Actual Pick: Logan Stanley, Defenseman, Windsor (OHL)
19. New York Islanders- Olli Juolevi, Defenseman, London Knights (OHL): The Isles snag up Juolevi here as they hope to snag a steal here in the re-draft. Juolevi has put up nice numbers in the OHL, but hasn't panned out as quickly as the Canucks thought. He'll probably be on the Canucks to begin next season as they continue their rebuild and he would have been a promising piece on this Isles team that could be entering a rebuild if John Tavares departs this summer.
Actual Pick: Michael McLeod, Center, Mississauga (OHL)
20. Detroit Red Wings (from New York Rangers via Arizona Coyotes)- Alexander Nylander, Wing, Mississauga (OHL): With Cholowski off the board, the Wings go with Nylander, who would be a steal sliding this far. Nylander had nice stats in the OHL, but did not do that much with Sabres this past season and he has room to grow as a player.
Actual Pick: Dennis Cholowski, Defenseman, Chilliwack
21. Carolina Hurricanes (from Los Angeles Kings)- Sam Steel, Center, Regina (WHL): Steel has proven to be a steal where the Ducks selected him. Steel put up very good numbers in the WHL and could find himself on the Ducks next season and would have been a nice depth piece for the Canes.
Actual Pick: Julien Gauthier, Wing, Val-d’Or (QMJHL)
22. Philadelphia Flyers (from Chicago Blackhawks via Winnipeg Jets)- Trent Frederic, Center, US-NTDP (USHL): Frederic has proven to be a steal for the Bruins at where they selected him. Frederic put up solid numbers in college and could start next season on the Bruins if he wanted to or they can
use him as trade bait.
Actual Pick: German Rubstov, Center, RussiaU18 (MHL)
23. Florida Panthers- Riley Tufte, Wing, Fargo Force (USHL): With Borgstrom off the board, the Panthers go with Tufte, who is a bit of a project. Tufte didn't put up great numbers this season in college so I bet he stays in college another year to develop and than in 2019 ends up on the Stars
roster.
Actual Pick: Henrik Borgstrom, Center, HIFK-JR, Finland
24. Anaheim Ducks- Samuel Girard, Defenseman, Swianigan (QMJHL): Girard has proven to be a steal at where the Preds took him in the second round as they traded him away to the Avs since they had a surplus of defenseman. Girard has been solid for the Avs this season as they got a nice return in the Matt Duchene trade.
Actual Pick: Max Jones, Wing, London (OHL)
25. Dallas Stars- Julien Gauthier, Wing, Val-d’Or (QMJHL): With Tufte off the board, the Stars take another wing in Gauthier, who has put up nice stats in the QMJHL. He'll probably start next season on the Canes and he'd be a nice fit on the Stars as well.
Actual Pick: Riley Tufte, Wing, Fargo Force (USHL)
26. St. Louis Blues (from Washington Capitals)- Max Jones, Wing, London (OHL): The Blues go with Jones here, who has shown a ton of potential in the OHL. He could start next season on the Ducks possibly and if he were on the Blues, he'd probably be a bottom six guy to start due to their forward depth.
Actual Pick: Tage Thompson, Center, Connecticut (NCAA)
27. Tampa Bay Lightning- German Rubstov, Center, RussiaU18 (MHL): The Bolts go with Rubstov here, who falls a few spots and could have been a steal here. Rubstov put up solid numbers in the MHL and could end up being trade bait for the Flyers due to their forward depth or start next season on the team.
Actual Pick: Brett Howden, Center, Moose Jaw (WHL)
28. Washington Capitals (from St. Louis Blues)- Luke Kunin, Center, Wisconsin (NCAA): Kunin falling this far would be a steal for the Caps. Kunin was solid in the AHL this season and put up 4 points in 13 games with the Wild this season.
Actual Pick: Lucas Johansen, Defenseman, Kelowna (WHL)
29. Boston Bruins (from San Jose Sharks)- Brett Howden, Center, Moose Jaw (WHL): With Frederic off the board, the Bruins take another center in Howden, who has shown some potential. The Bolts traded him away to the Rangers in the Ryan McDonagh/JT Miller trade and he could see some time with the Rangers next season as they enter a new era.
Actual Pick: Trent Frederic, Center, US-NTDP (USHL)
30. Anaheim Ducks- Lucas Johansen, Defenseman, Kelowna (WHL): With Steel off the board, the Ducks go with Johansen to keep building their defense depth. Johansen has put up solid numbers in the WHL and could see time with the Caps next season.
Actual Pick: Sam Steel, Center, Regina (WHL)
Wednesday, April 4, 2018
2018 NFL Mock Draft: Sixth Edition
Here is my fifth edition of my 2018 NFL Draft.
1. Cleveland Browns- Sam Darnold, Quarterback, USC: Although they did trade for Tyrod Taylor, he's not the long term answer for a team that needs a long term/possible franchise quarterback for the future. Darnold could be that due to his leadership, good throwing arm, clutch play as he's shown at the collegiate level, and his athleticism.
2. New York Giants- Josh Allen, Quarterback, Wyoming: Some mock drafts have Big Blue taking Saquon Barkley or Bradley Chubb here, but after the blockbuster Jets-Colts trade, something tells me Dave Gettleman plans on taking Eli Manning's successor. With all the smoke Jim Mora is throwing at Josh Rosen, the Giants take Allen, who has the most upside among the quarterbacks due to his athleticism, arm strength, and size and draws comparisons to Carson Wentz.
3. New York Jets (from Indianapolis Colts)- Josh Rosen, Quarterback, UCLA: Rosen's stock is dropping due to his concussion issues and his former coach Jim Mora throwing him under the bus. Rosen is perhaps the safest bet in this draft (in terms of quarterbacks) due to his accuracy and refined throwing mechanics.
4. Cleveland Browns (from Houston Texans)- Saquon Barkley, Running Back, Penn State: The Browns did sign Carlos Hyde in free agency, but there is still talk of the Browns taking Barkley first and a quarterback fourth. Barkley is the drafts best player and he can do pretty much everything.
5. Denver Broncos- Baker Mayfield, Quarterback, Oklahoma: Although they did sign Case Keenum, he's not the long-term answer at quarterback. The Broncos love Mayfield and he has a ton of potential with his gunslinger mentality although due to his height and off the court antics, is compared to Johnny Manziel.
6. Indianapolis Colts (from New York Jets)- Bradley Chubb, Defensive End, North Carolina State: This was a home run trade for the Colts and it would become a grand slam if they land either Chubb or Barkley here. Chubb will be a great fit in the Colts 4-3 defense and he's a three-down back that would help them stop the likes of DeShaun Watson and Marcus Mariota within their division.
2. New York Giants- Josh Allen, Quarterback, Wyoming: Some mock drafts have Big Blue taking Saquon Barkley or Bradley Chubb here, but after the blockbuster Jets-Colts trade, something tells me Dave Gettleman plans on taking Eli Manning's successor. With all the smoke Jim Mora is throwing at Josh Rosen, the Giants take Allen, who has the most upside among the quarterbacks due to his athleticism, arm strength, and size and draws comparisons to Carson Wentz.
3. New York Jets (from Indianapolis Colts)- Josh Rosen, Quarterback, UCLA: Rosen's stock is dropping due to his concussion issues and his former coach Jim Mora throwing him under the bus. Rosen is perhaps the safest bet in this draft (in terms of quarterbacks) due to his accuracy and refined throwing mechanics.
4. Cleveland Browns (from Houston Texans)- Saquon Barkley, Running Back, Penn State: The Browns did sign Carlos Hyde in free agency, but there is still talk of the Browns taking Barkley first and a quarterback fourth. Barkley is the drafts best player and he can do pretty much everything.
5. Denver Broncos- Baker Mayfield, Quarterback, Oklahoma: Although they did sign Case Keenum, he's not the long-term answer at quarterback. The Broncos love Mayfield and he has a ton of potential with his gunslinger mentality although due to his height and off the court antics, is compared to Johnny Manziel.
6. Indianapolis Colts (from New York Jets)- Bradley Chubb, Defensive End, North Carolina State: This was a home run trade for the Colts and it would become a grand slam if they land either Chubb or Barkley here. Chubb will be a great fit in the Colts 4-3 defense and he's a three-down back that would help them stop the likes of DeShaun Watson and Marcus Mariota within their division.
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Minkah Fitzpatrick, Safety, Alabama: This would be a steal here for the Bucs, who have a bigger need for a pass-rusher, so instead take Fitzpatrick to bolster their secondary. Fitzpatrick's versatility makes him special and he's perhaps the best defensive player in this draft.
8. Chicago Bears- Quenton Nelson, Guard, Notre Dame: The Bears have a need at edge rusher and with Chubb off the board, they address their need at left guard and Nelson fits the bill. Nelson seems like a sure thing and worthy of a top-ten pick and will help the Bears on the interior of the offensive line and will serve good for Mitch Trubisky.
9. San Francisco 49ers- Denzel Ward, Cornerback, Ohio State: Despite the signing of Richard Sherman, the Niners take Ward here in the mock. Ward isn't the biggest cornerback in the draft but he can cover skills that are hard to come by in the league.
10. Oakland Raiders- Tremaine Edmunds, Linebacker, Virginia Tech: The Raiders biggest need is at linebacker and Edmunds would be a solid pick. Edmunds is nineteen years old and his athleticism would give the Silver And Black's defense a different look.
11. Miami Dolphins- Roquan Smith, Linebacker, Georgia: Smith brings speed and athleticism and that would be much needed for this Dolphins defense, that needs some youth. This is a possible steal here.
12. Buffalo Bills (from Cincinnati Bengals)- Mike McGlinchey, Offensive Tackle, Notre Dame: After the trading of Cody Glenn, the Bills have a need on the offensive line. McGlinchey isn't that strong, but he's athletic and brings stability.
13. Washington Redskins- Derwin James, Strong Safety, Florida State: Perhaps the best defensive playmaker in the draft, James is the new NFL prototype as a safety capable of producing against the run or in both man and zone coverage. Florida State also used him as a pure edge rusher, where he regularly pressured the quarterback.
14. Green Bay Packers- Harold Landry, Linebacker, Boston College: With Ward off the board, the Packers go with Landry here to improve their pass rush. Landry did not have a great season in his final season at BC, but he should still be a solid pro.
15. Arizona Cardinals- Lamar Jackson, Quarterback, Louisville: The Cards are another trade up candidate, but here I have them selecting Jackson, who's a good decision maker and passer. The Cards know that Mike Glennon and Sam Bradford are not the long-term answers and Jackson would in theory be in a red-shirt situation here and a long-term foundation of Jackson and David Johnson is tough to pass up on.
16. Baltimore Ravens- Calvin Ridley, Wide Receiver, Alabama: The Ravens have lacked a big-threat receiver for years now and they get one here with Ridley, although they did sign John Brown and Michael Crabtree. Ridley brings a downfield, speedy option on the outside that would bring a different look to the Ravens offense.
17. Los Angeles Chargers- Maurice Hurst, Defensive Tackle, Michigan: Hurst had a heart condition at the combine and that shouldn't drop him out of the first round as the Bolts find someone to pair with Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram. Hurst doesn't have the size that teams are generally looking for in an interior defensive lineman, but his quickness more than makes up for that deficiency and makes him in particular a great threat rushing the passer on third downs.
18. Seattle Seahawks- Josh Jackson, Cornerback, Iowa: The Legion of Boom is dead. The Seahawks need youth and athleticism in their secondary and Jackson can provide that. Jackson is excellent in man-to-man coverage and comes off a season in which he led the nation in interceptions.
19. Dallas Cowboys- Vita Vea, Denfensive Tackle, Washington: Vea, a massive presence in the middle of a defensive line, will go a long way toward fixing that deficiency, while also providing enough quickness to penetrate into the backfield on some third downs.
20. Detroit Lions- Da'Ron Payne, Defensive Tackle, Alabama: The Lions failed to replace Ndamokung Suh and Nick Fairley the last few seasons, so they take Payne here to pair with Ziggy Ansah. Adding someone like Payne would only make that defensive line better.
21. Cincinnati Bengals (from Buffalo Bills)- Will Hernandez, Guard, UTEP: Hernandez is a fast riser on most peoples draft boards. Hernandez is big and strong and although the Bengals traded for Cody Glenn, they go with Hernandez to help protect Andy Dalton.
22. Buffalo Bills (from Kansas City Chiefs)- Mason Rudolph, Quarterback, Oklahoma State: The Bills are a strong candidate to trade up for a quarterback, but I don't do trades in my mock drafts so here I have them selecting Rudolph. He's an experienced pocket passer with nice downfield touch.
23. New England Patriots (from Los Angeles Rams)- Leighton Vander Esch, Linebacker, Boise State: Vander Esch is rising up many peoples mocks drafts of late. The Pats need a ton of youth in their defense especially up front and Vander Esch would be a very Patriots type of player.
24. Carolina Panthers- Isaiah Oliver, Cornerback, Colorado: Oliver has some good size and has the potential to be a solid pro. The Panthers can use some young corners and Olivier can fit right in.
25. Tennessee Titans- Marcus Davenport, Defensive End, UTSA: Davenport is a bit of a wild card since he's from a Group Of 5 school. The Titans are an interesting landing spot considering that defensive end isn't necessarily a need for them as Davenport can rotate with some of their guys.
26. Atlanta Falcons- Taven Bryan, Defensive End, Florida: The Falcons don't have any major needs, but bolstering the defensive line could be necessary if Dontari Poe leaves in free agency. Bryan has drawn comparisons to JJ Watt and will bring depth to the Falcons defensive line.
27. New Orleans Saints- Mike Gesicki, Tight End, Penn State: Gesicki is perhaps the best tight end in this draft class and would give Drew Brees yet another offensive weapon. Gesicki would be an upgrade at the position and would be the best tight end they've had since prime Jimmy Graham.
28. Pittsburgh Steelers- Rashaan Evans, Linebacker, Alabama: The Steelers can use a linebacker now with Ryan Shazier lost for this season. Evans brings an athletic presence who can fill multiple roles. He was more of an edge defender early in his career, and he pressured the quarterback on 67 of his 284 career rushes. However, he also showed well in a more traditional role over the last two years.
29. Jacksonville Jaguars- Isaiah Wynn, Guard, Georgia: Wynn would bring a nice upgrade to a Jags offensive line to take pressure off Blake Bortles and Leonard Fournette. can play tackle if needed but will succeed as a guard instantly. He plays with outstanding leverage and has the athleticism to mirror pass-rushers.
30. Minnesota Vikings- Billy Price, Guard, Ohio State: Price would be a nice addition to a Vikings team that can use offensive line help to protect Kirk Cousins. Price would be a great target for them as a potential replacement for Joe Berger inside. Price would be one of the better starting centers in the league, so the Vikings have the option of sticking him at the pivot immediately and having Pat Elflein compete at a guard spot.
31. New England Patriots- Orlando Brown, Offensive Tackle, Oklahoma: The Pats have a huge need at tackle now with Nate Solder's departure in free agency. Brown could be a steal here and it would be a very Belichick of him to take Brown here to protect Brady in his last few seasons in the league.
32. Philadelphia Eagles- Connor Williams, Offensive Tackle, Texas: The Eagles don't really have any needs. Williams is one of the better offensive lineman in this draft and the Eagles offensive line is aging so this would be a solid pick.
19. Dallas Cowboys- Vita Vea, Denfensive Tackle, Washington: Vea, a massive presence in the middle of a defensive line, will go a long way toward fixing that deficiency, while also providing enough quickness to penetrate into the backfield on some third downs.
20. Detroit Lions- Da'Ron Payne, Defensive Tackle, Alabama: The Lions failed to replace Ndamokung Suh and Nick Fairley the last few seasons, so they take Payne here to pair with Ziggy Ansah. Adding someone like Payne would only make that defensive line better.
21. Cincinnati Bengals (from Buffalo Bills)- Will Hernandez, Guard, UTEP: Hernandez is a fast riser on most peoples draft boards. Hernandez is big and strong and although the Bengals traded for Cody Glenn, they go with Hernandez to help protect Andy Dalton.
22. Buffalo Bills (from Kansas City Chiefs)- Mason Rudolph, Quarterback, Oklahoma State: The Bills are a strong candidate to trade up for a quarterback, but I don't do trades in my mock drafts so here I have them selecting Rudolph. He's an experienced pocket passer with nice downfield touch.
23. New England Patriots (from Los Angeles Rams)- Leighton Vander Esch, Linebacker, Boise State: Vander Esch is rising up many peoples mocks drafts of late. The Pats need a ton of youth in their defense especially up front and Vander Esch would be a very Patriots type of player.
24. Carolina Panthers- Isaiah Oliver, Cornerback, Colorado: Oliver has some good size and has the potential to be a solid pro. The Panthers can use some young corners and Olivier can fit right in.
25. Tennessee Titans- Marcus Davenport, Defensive End, UTSA: Davenport is a bit of a wild card since he's from a Group Of 5 school. The Titans are an interesting landing spot considering that defensive end isn't necessarily a need for them as Davenport can rotate with some of their guys.
26. Atlanta Falcons- Taven Bryan, Defensive End, Florida: The Falcons don't have any major needs, but bolstering the defensive line could be necessary if Dontari Poe leaves in free agency. Bryan has drawn comparisons to JJ Watt and will bring depth to the Falcons defensive line.
27. New Orleans Saints- Mike Gesicki, Tight End, Penn State: Gesicki is perhaps the best tight end in this draft class and would give Drew Brees yet another offensive weapon. Gesicki would be an upgrade at the position and would be the best tight end they've had since prime Jimmy Graham.
28. Pittsburgh Steelers- Rashaan Evans, Linebacker, Alabama: The Steelers can use a linebacker now with Ryan Shazier lost for this season. Evans brings an athletic presence who can fill multiple roles. He was more of an edge defender early in his career, and he pressured the quarterback on 67 of his 284 career rushes. However, he also showed well in a more traditional role over the last two years.
29. Jacksonville Jaguars- Isaiah Wynn, Guard, Georgia: Wynn would bring a nice upgrade to a Jags offensive line to take pressure off Blake Bortles and Leonard Fournette. can play tackle if needed but will succeed as a guard instantly. He plays with outstanding leverage and has the athleticism to mirror pass-rushers.
30. Minnesota Vikings- Billy Price, Guard, Ohio State: Price would be a nice addition to a Vikings team that can use offensive line help to protect Kirk Cousins. Price would be a great target for them as a potential replacement for Joe Berger inside. Price would be one of the better starting centers in the league, so the Vikings have the option of sticking him at the pivot immediately and having Pat Elflein compete at a guard spot.
31. New England Patriots- Orlando Brown, Offensive Tackle, Oklahoma: The Pats have a huge need at tackle now with Nate Solder's departure in free agency. Brown could be a steal here and it would be a very Belichick of him to take Brown here to protect Brady in his last few seasons in the league.
32. Philadelphia Eagles- Connor Williams, Offensive Tackle, Texas: The Eagles don't really have any needs. Williams is one of the better offensive lineman in this draft and the Eagles offensive line is aging so this would be a solid pick.
Monday, April 2, 2018
2018 NCAA Tournament: National Championship Prediction
Here is my prediction for the 2018 NCAA Tournament Men's National Championship game, which is taking place tonight.
(W3) Michigan (33-7) vs (E1) Villanova (35-4)- 8:00, TBS: This should be a fun National Championship game between two teams that have played very good basketball upto this point. The Wolverines are coming off a great win over the Cinderella Loyola-Chicago Ramblers. The Wildcats are coming off a dominating win over the Kansas Jayhawks. The Wolverines have a great group of guys led by Mohamed Ali-Abdul Rahkman, Moritz Wagner, Jordan Poole, and Duncan Robinson. The Wildcats are a great team as well led by Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, and Phil Boothe. The Wildcats experience in this spot from two years ago cannot be understated as it showed last year with the Tar Heels when they won last season after the experience they gained two years ago against these same Villanova Wildcats, who are my pick in this game to win their second National Championship in three seasons.
Prediction: Villanova 75, Michigan 70.
Tournament Most Outstanding Player: Jalen Brunson
(W3) Michigan (33-7) vs (E1) Villanova (35-4)- 8:00, TBS: This should be a fun National Championship game between two teams that have played very good basketball upto this point. The Wolverines are coming off a great win over the Cinderella Loyola-Chicago Ramblers. The Wildcats are coming off a dominating win over the Kansas Jayhawks. The Wolverines have a great group of guys led by Mohamed Ali-Abdul Rahkman, Moritz Wagner, Jordan Poole, and Duncan Robinson. The Wildcats are a great team as well led by Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, and Phil Boothe. The Wildcats experience in this spot from two years ago cannot be understated as it showed last year with the Tar Heels when they won last season after the experience they gained two years ago against these same Villanova Wildcats, who are my pick in this game to win their second National Championship in three seasons.
Prediction: Villanova 75, Michigan 70.
Tournament Most Outstanding Player: Jalen Brunson
2016 MLB Re-Draft
Here I'm going to re-draft the First Round of the 2016 NBA Draft. How many picks will be the same? How many picks will be different?
1. Philadelphia Phillies- Nick Senzel, Third Baseman, Tennessee: The Phillies take Senzel in the re-draft first overall due to the fact he can flat out hit. Senzel could be in the big leagues this season and play short or third for the Reds, but imagine Senzel with the Phils young core with Rhys Hoskins, Nick Williams, and Aaron Nola?
Actual Pick: Mickey Moniak, Outfielder, LA Costa Canyon HS (CAL)
2. Cincinnati Reds- Forrest Whitley, Pitcher, Alamo Heights HS (TX): With Senzel off the board, the Reds take Whitley here, who'll be in the bigs this season at some point. A rotation duo of Whitley and Hunter Greene would be amazing.
Actual Pick: Nick Senzel, Third Baseman, Tennessee
3. Atlanta Braves- Bo Bichette, Shortstop/Second Baseman, Lakewood HS (FL): Bichette proven to be a steal at where the Jays selected him in the second round. Bichette might see the bigs this season and imagine Bichette with Austin Riley, Dansby Swanson, and Freddie Freeman in that infield?
Actual Pick: Ian Anderson, Pitcher, Shenendehowa HS (NY)
4. Colorado Rockies- AJ Puk, Pitcher, Florida: The Rockies take Puk here even though he is out for the season and will be getting Tommy John surgery and would have likely seen the bigs this season and made starts for the A's. A top of the rotation of Puk and Jon Gray would have been interesting.
Actual Pick: Riley Pint, Pitcher, Saint Thomas Aquinas HS (KS)
5. Milwaukee Brewers- Austin Hays, Outfielder, Jacksonville: Hays has proved to be a steal at where the O's selected him in the third round and will likely be their right fielder of the future. The Brewers take Hays here and is probably trade bait for them in their pursuit of an ace.
Actual Pick: Corey Ray, Outfielder, Louisville
6. Oakland Athletics- Cal Quantrill, Pitcher, Stanford: With Puk off the board, the A's take Quantrill with his potential. Quantrill may see starts for the Padres this season and he would be a fine selection here for the A's,
Actual Pick: AJ Puk, Pitcher, Florida
7. Miami Marlins- Taylor Trammell, Outfielder, Mount Paran Christian HS (GA): Trammell has proven to be a steal at where the Reds selected him in the compensation round. We'll see if Trammell is in Reds long term plans for now considering their outfield depth, but he'd certainly be a future piece for a Marlins team that's just in the beginning of their long rebuild.
Actual Pick: Braxton Garrett, Pitcher, Florence HS (ALA)
8. San Diego Padres- Ian Anderson, Pitcher, Shenendehowa HS (NY): With Quantrill off the board, the Padres take Anderson here, who also projects to be a top of the rotation guy. Anderson might see the bigs this season with the Braves and he would have been a fine choice for the Pads here.
Actual Pick: Cal Quantrill, Pitcher, Stanford
9. Detroit Tigers- Matt Manning, Pitcher, Sheldon High School (CAL): No dud-over here as the Tigers take their guy in Manning, who's a fast riser in the Tigers system. The future top of the rotation for the Tigers could be Manning, Franklin Perez, and Alex Faedo.
Actual Pick: Manning
10. Chicago White Sox- Alec Hansen, RHP, Oklahoma: Hansen has proven to be a steal at where the White Sox selected him in the second round. Hansen could either be a reliable third starter or even a reliever in his future.
Actual Pick: Zack Collins, Catcher, Miami
11. Seattle Mariners- Jesus Luzardo, LHP, Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School (FL): Luzardo has proven to a steal at where the A's selected him. I Luzardo being a lights out reliever some day that can make spot starts.
1. Philadelphia Phillies- Nick Senzel, Third Baseman, Tennessee: The Phillies take Senzel in the re-draft first overall due to the fact he can flat out hit. Senzel could be in the big leagues this season and play short or third for the Reds, but imagine Senzel with the Phils young core with Rhys Hoskins, Nick Williams, and Aaron Nola?
Actual Pick: Mickey Moniak, Outfielder, LA Costa Canyon HS (CAL)
2. Cincinnati Reds- Forrest Whitley, Pitcher, Alamo Heights HS (TX): With Senzel off the board, the Reds take Whitley here, who'll be in the bigs this season at some point. A rotation duo of Whitley and Hunter Greene would be amazing.
Actual Pick: Nick Senzel, Third Baseman, Tennessee
3. Atlanta Braves- Bo Bichette, Shortstop/Second Baseman, Lakewood HS (FL): Bichette proven to be a steal at where the Jays selected him in the second round. Bichette might see the bigs this season and imagine Bichette with Austin Riley, Dansby Swanson, and Freddie Freeman in that infield?
Actual Pick: Ian Anderson, Pitcher, Shenendehowa HS (NY)
4. Colorado Rockies- AJ Puk, Pitcher, Florida: The Rockies take Puk here even though he is out for the season and will be getting Tommy John surgery and would have likely seen the bigs this season and made starts for the A's. A top of the rotation of Puk and Jon Gray would have been interesting.
Actual Pick: Riley Pint, Pitcher, Saint Thomas Aquinas HS (KS)
5. Milwaukee Brewers- Austin Hays, Outfielder, Jacksonville: Hays has proved to be a steal at where the O's selected him in the third round and will likely be their right fielder of the future. The Brewers take Hays here and is probably trade bait for them in their pursuit of an ace.
Actual Pick: Corey Ray, Outfielder, Louisville
6. Oakland Athletics- Cal Quantrill, Pitcher, Stanford: With Puk off the board, the A's take Quantrill with his potential. Quantrill may see starts for the Padres this season and he would be a fine selection here for the A's,
Actual Pick: AJ Puk, Pitcher, Florida
7. Miami Marlins- Taylor Trammell, Outfielder, Mount Paran Christian HS (GA): Trammell has proven to be a steal at where the Reds selected him in the compensation round. We'll see if Trammell is in Reds long term plans for now considering their outfield depth, but he'd certainly be a future piece for a Marlins team that's just in the beginning of their long rebuild.
Actual Pick: Braxton Garrett, Pitcher, Florence HS (ALA)
8. San Diego Padres- Ian Anderson, Pitcher, Shenendehowa HS (NY): With Quantrill off the board, the Padres take Anderson here, who also projects to be a top of the rotation guy. Anderson might see the bigs this season with the Braves and he would have been a fine choice for the Pads here.
Actual Pick: Cal Quantrill, Pitcher, Stanford
9. Detroit Tigers- Matt Manning, Pitcher, Sheldon High School (CAL): No dud-over here as the Tigers take their guy in Manning, who's a fast riser in the Tigers system. The future top of the rotation for the Tigers could be Manning, Franklin Perez, and Alex Faedo.
Actual Pick: Manning
10. Chicago White Sox- Alec Hansen, RHP, Oklahoma: Hansen has proven to be a steal at where the White Sox selected him in the second round. Hansen could either be a reliable third starter or even a reliever in his future.
Actual Pick: Zack Collins, Catcher, Miami
11. Seattle Mariners- Jesus Luzardo, LHP, Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School (FL): Luzardo has proven to a steal at where the A's selected him. I Luzardo being a lights out reliever some day that can make spot starts.
Actual Pick: Kyle Lewis, Outfielder, Mercer
12. Boston Red Sox- Corbin Burnes, RHP, Centennial High School (CA): Burnes proven to be a steal at where the Brewers selected him. Burnes long term future could be a reliever that can spot start on occasion or even trade bait for the Brew Crew or if the Sox took him here.
Actual Pick: Jason Groome, Pitcher, Barnegat HS (NJ)
13. Tampa Bay Rays- Kyle Lewis, Outfielder, Mercer: The Mariners are very high on Lewis and will probably see the bigs next season. Lewis would be a nice fit in this Rays system because it lacks high level outfield prospects.
Actual Pick: Josh Lowe, Third Baseman, Pope High School (GA)
14. Cleveland Indians- Jon Duplantier, RHP, Rice: Duplantier proven to be a steal at where the D-Backs selected him in the third round. Duplantier projects to be a top of the rotation guy or even could be a reliever.
Actual Pick: Will Benson, Outfielder, The Westminsters School (GA)
15. Minnesota Twins- Jason Groome, Pitcher, Barnegat HS (NJ): Groome is the best Red Sox pitching prospect and this would be a steal for the Twins here. Groome projects to be an ace and he'd be a fun pairing with Jose Berrios in the Twins rotation.
Actual Pick: Alex Kirilloff, Outfielder, Plum HS (PA)
16. Los Angeles Angels- Mickey Moniak, Outfielder, LA Costa Canyon HS (CA): Moniak falling this far in the re-draft would be a steal for the Angels. He probably won't see the bigs for another year or two, but don't be surprised if the Phils use him as trade bait and he probably would have been a future piece for the Halos.
Actual Pick: Matt Thaiss, Catcher, Virginia
17. Houston Astros- Carter Kieboom, Shortstop, Waltboom HS (GA): Kieboom has proven to be a steal for the Nats at where they selected him in the compensatory round. He would probably be trade bait for both the Nats and in theory the Astros.
Actual Pick: Forrest Whitley, Pitcher, Alamo Heights HS (TX)
18. New York Yankees- Dane Dunning, RHP, Florida: Dunning has also proven to be a steal at where the Nats selected him and than they traded him away for Adam Eaton. Dunning would fit nicely with the Yankees and the surplus of young arms they have too.
Actual Pick: Blake Rutherford, Outfielder, Chaminade Prep High School (CA)
19. New York Mets- Blake Rutherford, Outfielder, Chaminade Prep High School (CA): Rutherford's stock is down because he didn't have a good season last year as the Yanks traded him away to the White Sox. He still projects to be an everyday outfielder someday, but is a year or two away from the bigs.
Actual Pick: Justin Dunn, RHP, Boston College
20. Los Angeles Dodgers- Riley Pint, Pitcher, Saint Thomas Aquinas HS (KS): Getting Pint here would be a steal for the Dodgers, who may see the bigs as early as next season. Pint will be a future ace and probably would pair with Clayton Kershaw atop the Dodgers rotation.
Actual Pick: Gavin Lux, Shortstop, Indian Trail Academy (WI)
21. Toronto Blue Jays- Will Smith, Catcher, Louisville: The Dodgers snagged a steal in Smith in the second round and they either view him as a long term piece for them or a trade asset down the road. Smith would have been the catcher of the future for the Jays.
Actual Pick: TJ Zeuch, RHP, Pittsburgh
22. Pittsburgh Pirates- Jordan Scheffield, RHP, Vanderbilt: The Dodgers netted another steal in Scheffield and they probably view him as a mid-rotation starter or a trade asset. Scheffield would have (in theory) been paired with Mitch Keller and Jameison Taillon in the Pirates rotation for years to come.
Actual Pick: Will Craig, Third/First Baseman, Wake Forest
23. St. Louis Cardinals- Dakota Hudson, RHP, Mississippi State: The Cards snagged a steal in the compensatory round with Hudson as he finished last season in AAA. Don't be surprised if he's either in St. Louis at some point or is trade bait.
Actual Pick: Delvin Perez, Shortstop, International Baseball Academy (PR)
Actual Pick: Jason Groome, Pitcher, Barnegat HS (NJ)
13. Tampa Bay Rays- Kyle Lewis, Outfielder, Mercer: The Mariners are very high on Lewis and will probably see the bigs next season. Lewis would be a nice fit in this Rays system because it lacks high level outfield prospects.
Actual Pick: Josh Lowe, Third Baseman, Pope High School (GA)
14. Cleveland Indians- Jon Duplantier, RHP, Rice: Duplantier proven to be a steal at where the D-Backs selected him in the third round. Duplantier projects to be a top of the rotation guy or even could be a reliever.
Actual Pick: Will Benson, Outfielder, The Westminsters School (GA)
15. Minnesota Twins- Jason Groome, Pitcher, Barnegat HS (NJ): Groome is the best Red Sox pitching prospect and this would be a steal for the Twins here. Groome projects to be an ace and he'd be a fun pairing with Jose Berrios in the Twins rotation.
Actual Pick: Alex Kirilloff, Outfielder, Plum HS (PA)
16. Los Angeles Angels- Mickey Moniak, Outfielder, LA Costa Canyon HS (CA): Moniak falling this far in the re-draft would be a steal for the Angels. He probably won't see the bigs for another year or two, but don't be surprised if the Phils use him as trade bait and he probably would have been a future piece for the Halos.
Actual Pick: Matt Thaiss, Catcher, Virginia
17. Houston Astros- Carter Kieboom, Shortstop, Waltboom HS (GA): Kieboom has proven to be a steal for the Nats at where they selected him in the compensatory round. He would probably be trade bait for both the Nats and in theory the Astros.
Actual Pick: Forrest Whitley, Pitcher, Alamo Heights HS (TX)
18. New York Yankees- Dane Dunning, RHP, Florida: Dunning has also proven to be a steal at where the Nats selected him and than they traded him away for Adam Eaton. Dunning would fit nicely with the Yankees and the surplus of young arms they have too.
Actual Pick: Blake Rutherford, Outfielder, Chaminade Prep High School (CA)
19. New York Mets- Blake Rutherford, Outfielder, Chaminade Prep High School (CA): Rutherford's stock is down because he didn't have a good season last year as the Yanks traded him away to the White Sox. He still projects to be an everyday outfielder someday, but is a year or two away from the bigs.
Actual Pick: Justin Dunn, RHP, Boston College
20. Los Angeles Dodgers- Riley Pint, Pitcher, Saint Thomas Aquinas HS (KS): Getting Pint here would be a steal for the Dodgers, who may see the bigs as early as next season. Pint will be a future ace and probably would pair with Clayton Kershaw atop the Dodgers rotation.
Actual Pick: Gavin Lux, Shortstop, Indian Trail Academy (WI)
21. Toronto Blue Jays- Will Smith, Catcher, Louisville: The Dodgers snagged a steal in Smith in the second round and they either view him as a long term piece for them or a trade asset down the road. Smith would have been the catcher of the future for the Jays.
Actual Pick: TJ Zeuch, RHP, Pittsburgh
22. Pittsburgh Pirates- Jordan Scheffield, RHP, Vanderbilt: The Dodgers netted another steal in Scheffield and they probably view him as a mid-rotation starter or a trade asset. Scheffield would have (in theory) been paired with Mitch Keller and Jameison Taillon in the Pirates rotation for years to come.
Actual Pick: Will Craig, Third/First Baseman, Wake Forest
23. St. Louis Cardinals- Dakota Hudson, RHP, Mississippi State: The Cards snagged a steal in the compensatory round with Hudson as he finished last season in AAA. Don't be surprised if he's either in St. Louis at some point or is trade bait.
Actual Pick: Delvin Perez, Shortstop, International Baseball Academy (PR)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)