The big two
The top two choices in the NHL draft have been firmly established for most of the season. Both are considered to be franchise players and future stars.
Connor McDavid
Position: Center
Size: 6-1, 195 pounds
Hometown: Richmond Hill, Ontario
Junior team: Erie (Ontario Hockey League)
History: Canadian Hockey League and OHL player of the year after getting 44 goals and 76 assists in 47 games; had 49 points in 20 playoff games. Also led Canada to gold medal at the world junior championships. Granted exceptional player status to join the OHL at age 15.
Scouting report: McDavid has been compared to Wayne Gretzky and Sidney Crosby because his skill level in all areas is ultra-quick, giving him potential rarely seen in hockey. Can he live up to the hype?
Jack Eichel
Position: Center
Size: 6-2, 196 pounds
Hometown: North Chelmsford, Mass.
College team: Boston University
History: Won Hobey Baker Award as outstanding college player, the second freshman (Paul Kariya, 1993) to do so. Had 26 goals and 45 assists in 40 games as BU finished runner-up to Providence for the NCAA title. Helped U.S. to bronze medal at world junior championships. As a 17-year-old led the U.S. National Development U18 team with 87 points in 53 games and was a U.S. Hockey League All-Star.
Scouting report: A rare combination of top-level speed and power. Known for a great wrist shot and also strong passing ability. If not for McDavid, would be an easy No. 1 choice.
CHRIS MILLER
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