Ducks: After Matvei Michkov, they’re now seriously considering Leo Carlsson

If there were a time machine, I’d pay good money to transport us to next Wednesday evening, June 28.

The first round of the NHL draft will be full of surprises, and that’s why everyone’s so anxious to see what happens. We know that Connor Bedard is a lock to go first…

Adam Fantilli, Leo Carlsson, Will Smith and Matvei Michkov are often talked about as the other four “top prospects” in the draft, and it’s not clear in what order they’ll come out.

They’re all so good that right now, the Ducks seem to be having trouble making their ultimate pick. The possibility of them selecting Michkov has been discussed in recent days…

And right now, the team seems to have Leo Carlsson in its sights, according to John Hoven, a guy who’s plugged in California and regularly discusses the Los Angeles Kings for SiriusXM NHL Network Radio.

I’m not afraid to say it. I don’t think we should necessarily believe that Adam Fantilli is guaranteed to come out second, even if he did have a full year in the NCAA with the University of Michigan.

In fact, I refuse to believe that this is a certainty. Maybe he’ll become quite a player in the NHL, Fantilli. But I’m one of those people who aren’t necessarily convinced when people talk about him, not least because he disappointed me so much at the World Junior Championship.

Again, I don’t want to believe that he’ll turn out to be a flop, because in reality, the youngster has some interesting assets for the NHL. He’s strong and has a good skating stroke, which should help him in his big league debut.

Anyway. Maybe I’m wrong, too. And there really aren’t any good answers right now, because so much can happen between now and then.

One thing’s for sure, though. And chances are, they’re going to get their hands on an excellent player, no matter what decision they make.

Breaking news

– Pascal Rhéaume is the Lions’ new head coach. He will also take on the role of GM.

– That’s right.

– It’s going to be a bumpy ride!

The Battle of Alberta is heading outdoors for the 2023 @TimHortons NHL #HeritageClassic! 🇨🇦

Get your tickets now 👉 https://t.co/AqNX5zu5oF pic.twitter.com/B61MCs6uUk

– NHL (@NHL) June 22, 2023

– It would be surprising to see him win, though.