Round #7
Pick 202: Marek Hejduk, F/US U18
Another good value pick with decent size, defense defines Hejduk‘s game. In 52 contests this past season with the USDP, he scored just 19 points (10 goals). He also logged nine points in 27 games in the USHL. With his defensive-exclusive game, there is a chance Hejduk may not get drafted. But if you are the Buffalo Sabres, you might find some value here if you are in the market for what could be an incredible future fourth-liner.
Pick 211: James Hardie/LW/Mississauga Steelheads (OHL)
With good size and production, Hardie will be a steal at this point. He went undrafted the last two seasons, so it is safe to say that the OHL product played with a chip on his shoulder this past year. He is a pure scorer, but every other aspect, from his skating to his defense, must improve, which is why he drops to the seventh round despite 77 points and 41 goals in 68 games.
Hardie does have a strong work ethic and that may entice the Sabres to take a chance on this incredibly raw prospect. We will find out on Friday, but he might just be a sleeper the organization needs to develop into at least sound AHL insurance.
The player profiles in this year’s mock draft were made possible by the 2022 TCB NHL Draft Guide. Statistics provided by Elite Prospects.