FLORIDA PANTERS DRAFT 2021 REVIEW
2021-08-27Yeah, the 2020-21 season was pretty tough and evaluating prospects was more difficult than usual, but the Panthers GM was pleased with his selections in the 2021 EHE Entry Draft.
#6. Dylan Guenther
While last year with the 3rd overall pick we were sure to pick from 2 players, this year there were significantly more options. In preparing for the draft, we looked at different strategies for how it would happen. When it was announced that the Panthers were on the clock, we had no more doubts and happily selected Dylan Guenther. 2019-20 WHL Rookie of the Year, the 2020 U18 WС winner - in our opinion, he's one of the few in this draft who will be ready to play in the NHL in the next 1-2 years. Speed, excellent puck control, shooting - offensive skills are already at a very high level. In theory the line Guenther - Byfield - Denisenko looks extremely intriguing.
#26. Zachary L'Heureux
With the selection of Zachary L'Heureux at #26, the Panthers got a guy they usually say their opponents hate. He's always ready for a physical game, very strong in the forecheck. His offensive skills may not be the best, but his constant pressure on his opponent and ability to wrestle in traffic may make him more valuable than it may seem right now.
#36. Daniil Chayka
Assuming players like Daniil Chayka aren't valued as much, the Panthers decided to take a chance and move down 6 spots by trading #31 to #36 to St. Louis and getting an extra pick in the 4th round of 2022. Chayka is a defensman in the truest sense of the word. He skillfully uses his height to stop opposing forwards, he is always ready to block a shot. On top of all that, he is an excellent skater and has high hockey IQ. His offensive skills are not his main weapon, but he can both start and finish an attack. Most importantly, Daniil continues to progress and at 18 years old already has experience playing against men in the KHL. In my opinion he is one of the strongest players in his position in this draft.
#48. Chase Stillman
Actually neither before nor during the draft did the Panthers consider Stillman to be the player they would pick. The priority was other wingers (who were eventually selected) and the plan was to pick 2 forwards and 2 dmans. But when it came time to make his choice, the Panthers GM had to think seriously. Versatility, having both offensive and defensive skills, leading a highly energetic game - all of these things made him pull the trigger and take a chance, selecting him with 48th overall pick. His potential as a middle-six player was extremely tempting and if he developed well, he could play in the top-6 as well.
For as few picks you had Shean, what an great selection of picks. I really like Guenther, even if he is saddled in Arizona, I think he is going to be great.
FLORIDA PANTERS DRAFT 2021 REVIEW
REVIEW