Another Mock Draft Says Ryan Leonard To Flyers; Another Says Matvei Michkov

We’re tick-tocking down to Wednesday’s Day 1 of the highly anticipated NHL Draft. Each day, we are publishing mock drafts for the Philadelphia Flyers’ selections at No. 7 and 22.

Today’s selections were made by TSN and Montreal Hockey Now.

TSN Director Of Scouting (Craig Button)

7. Flyers: Ryan Leonard, RW, USNTDP

Leonard has been compared with Matthew and Brady Tkachuk by Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes. Leonard described himself as having “a Tkachuk-esque bite” to his game.

He is a power-forward type with energy. He will be strong around the net and has a goal-scorer’s touch.

Here is Leonard’s scouting report from Elite Prospects: “Leonard is dangerous with the puck in the offensive zone, possessing a pro-calibre shot and hands. He is incredibly deceptive, using his upper body and eyes to turn defenders’ feet and sticks before walking around them or getting a shot on net.

“Leonard is a great facilitator, as well. After making a move, he can find guys in stride in dangerous spots. An above-average skater, Leonard can employ all of these tools off the rush too, making him even more versatile.”

22. Ethan Gauthier, RW, Drummondville (QMJHL)

[Gauthier is] a nice package of size and skill. Ethan Gauthier plays a game akin to Josh Anderson, possessing solid inside speed and a knack for rushing to the front of the net. — Marco D’Amico, Montreal Hockey Now. MHN’s Mock Draft had Gauthier going 29 to the Blues.

Montreal Hockey Now (Marco D’Amico)

7.  Flyers: Matvei Michkov, RW, Sochi, KHL

Daniel Briere has already shown he’s going to be making some bold calls as the new GM of the Philadelphia Flyers, and he does so again by drafting Matvei Michkov. With the Flyers just beginning their rebuild, they’ll have the time to wait for Michkov should he be ready in three or five years, depending on his contractual status. — Marco D’Amico, Montreal Hockey Now.

22. Flyers: Eduard Sale, RW, Brno, Czechia

The Philadelphia Flyers continue to add more top-end skill to their forward corps by selecting the electric Eduard Sale. Sale had a very inconsistent year, but could become an interesting top-six winger for the Flyers if he can put it all together. — Marco D’Amico, Montreal Hockey Now.

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Flyers, In Case You Missed It:

Flyers well positioned in draft full of talent.

Check out the Flyers’ picks — and all 32 picks — in National Hockey Now’s mock draft.

Flyers working to trade Kevin Hayes to Blues. And, an update after the trade hits a snag.

Around The National Hockey Network:

Boston Hockey Now: In light of the Flyers-Blues trade talks, was David Pastrnak trying to bring Torey Krug back to Boston?

Chicago Hockey Now: Analysis on Blackhawks drafting Colby Barlow at 19.

Colorado Hockey Now: Avalanche hasn’t closed the door on J.T. Compher.

Detroit Hockey Now: Will David Reinbacher be there for Wings at 9?

Florida Hockey Now: Center Anton Lundell impressed in Panthers’ playoff run.

Los Angeles Hockey Now: Kings reportedly closer to signing Pierre-Luc Dubois.

Pittsburgh Hockey Now: Big decisions, major moves looming for Penguins.

Vegas Hockey Now: Golden Knights close to extension with Cup-winning goalie Adin Hill.

Washington Hockey Now: Ryan Leonard would add playoff mindset to Capitals with No. 8 draft pick.