The top of this year’s NHL draft is loaded with quality talent. At pick No. 10, it seems as though the Avalanche can’t go wrong with whomever they decide to pick with their first-round selection.
The speculation mostly lies on what position the Avalanche will target with their first pick, but their best bet would be to simply take the best player available.
Over the last few weeks we have examined many of the upcoming prospects in the draft and their possible fit with the Colorado Avalanche. Following are our five favorite players that are likely to be available at the 10th-overall pick that would be a great addition to the Avalanche organization.
5. Jacob Chychrun
Team: Sarnia Sting, OHL Pos: D
Age: 18 Size: 6-foot-2, 198 pounds
Last season: 62 games played, 11 goals, 38 assists
The American born Jacob Chychrun is a smart and physical defenseman who knows how to find the back of the net. The Avalanche are definitely in need of bigger, physical defensemen who can also move the puck up the ice safely and soundly. Chychrun isn’t afraid to lead the offensive rush and is aggressive in the offensive end.
Chychrun’s bread and butter comes from his left-handed slap shot from the right side of the ice. His hard one-timer makes him an ideal option for power-play situations and a legitimate threat from the point during five-on-five.
Jacob Chychrun’s offensive capabilities are what truly set him apart. As the Avalanche need help offensively, they don’t necessarily need it out of their defensemen. Chychrun is a solid choice for Colorado at 10, but only if the next four prospects have already been selected.
