McKenzie Draft List Offers Insight To Potential Canadiens Picks

TSN analyst Bob McKenzie released his final 2023 Draft list, which might offer Montreal Canadiens fans some insight as to which players could be available once the team takes to the podium for the 5th and 31st overall picks.

McKenzie’s rankings aren’t born from his personal opinion. Rather, he collects rankings from various sources, including scouts and executives, which allows him to build a consensus list.

As expected, Connor Bedard tops the list, followed by NCAA standout Adam Fantilli, Swedish forward Leo Carlsson, and USDNTP centre Will Smith.

At 5th overall we find the extremely talented Matvei Michkov. You can check out Michkov’s scouting report as well as highlights from his time in Russia by clicking here.

Bob McKenzie’s Top 10

1 – Connor Bedard

2 – Adam Fantilli

3 – Leo Carlsson

4 – Will Smith

5 – Matvei Michkov

6 – Ryan Leonard

7 – Dalibor Dvorsky

8 – David Reinbacher

9 – Zach Benson

10  – Gabe Perreault

McKenzie notes that Michkov also received consideration at 2nd, 3rd, and 4th overall.

“Even though Michkov’s consensus ranking is No. 5 — five scouts pegged him there,” said McKenzie. “But he also received consideration at Nos, 2, 3, and 4 — his forecast is every bit as uncertain and unknown as Bedard’s is crystal clear. Really, whenever and whoever takes Michkov, it’s going to be a dominant storyline in this draft. Maybe THE storyline, next to Bedard.”

As for the player he has listed at 31st overall, McKenzie suggests that Bradley Nadeau could be available to the Montreal Canadiens, though he also notes that Ethan Gauthier, who was rather confident the Canadiens could pick him if he’s available at 31, could also be in the mix.

Nadeau is a 5’11” centre that played in the BCHL for the Penticton Vees last season, earning 45 goals and 68 assists in 54 games. He possesses an elite shot which makes him very dangerous off the rush. The New Brunswick native committed to playing in the NCAA next season and will join the University of Maine.

To check out McKenzie’s full rankings you can click here. You can see the 30-minute Draft Show on TSN by clicking here.