5 – Montreal Canadiens: Ryan Leonard, F/USNTDP
Previous Pick: Will Smith
I went with Will Smith over the first two mocks, but in this one, the Montreal Canadiens will go with the aggressive Ryan Leonard. Leonard will add an edge to the Canadiens prospects pool and look to eventually forge a dynamic duo with Juraj Slafkovsky.
6 – Arizona Coyotes: David Reinbacher, D/Kloten
Previous Pick: Gabe Perreault, LW/USNTDP
The Arizona Coyotes are another rebuilding team in need of just about everything, including a new arena. In short, they need someone to draw fan interest, and no one does that better than Reinbacher, who was a revelation in the NL this past season.
7 – Philadelphia Flyers: Will Smith, C/USNTDP
Previous Pick: Dalibor Dvorsky
One of the most entertaining talents in the offensive zone, Will Smith may not fall this far on draft day. But if he does, expect his freefall to stop with the Philadelphia Flyers.
8 – Washington Capitals: Matthew Wood, F/UConn
Previous Pick: Matvei Michkov
Matthew Wood is a big-bodied forward who will only keep growing over the next few seasons. And he could be ready to take over for the Washington Capitals around the time Alexander Ovechkin either decides to call it quits, or will take the eventual back seat.