2008 NHL Mock Draft

--Doughty, according to some is the best defenseman available in this draft. He has a tonne of maturity for his age and is able to be both an offensive defenseman and a stout defensive defenseman, as seen at the World Junior Hockey Championships where he played for team Canada. What he lacks is an ability to carry the puck up the ice. He does it regulalry, but also turns the puck over on most attempts.

#5 New York Islanders: The Isles are in desperate need of a young centreman stud in the system, especially after last year's deadline deal that sent Ryan O'Marra and Robert Nilsson to the Flames for Ryan Smyth. O'marra was the best centre ice prospect in the system for the Isles and they are looking to fill the void left by his departure.
SELECTION: Cody Hodgson--He has, quite possibly, the quickest first step in this draft, especially for a centreman. He's an explosive skater and is very strong on his feet. Hodgson is a guy who can play on the penalty kill, powerplay and 5 on 5. Cody has exceptional hockey sense and is a hockey player's hockey player.

#6 Columbus Blue Jackets: The Jackets will be looking for the best player available at number 6. They are a club in need of hard-nosed players who have excellent leadership qualities.
SELECTION: Colin Wilson--He is above average at every facet of the game. He is fast and is extremely skilled with and without the puck. He can play in all situations and has enormous hockey sense.

#7 Phoenix Coyotes:The Coyotes will look oversees at this point, trying to find a top 5 talent who has fallen through the cracks a little bit. Gretzky, again, will have a major role in the selection, so look for a very skilled and fast player.
SELECTION:Mikkel Boedker--The best Danish prospect ever and some say the best Dane to ever lace up the skates. He led the Danes in the World Juniors and played exceptionally well. Gretzky will love his leadership, vision and work ethic and he will fit well within the 'Yote's system.

#8 Toronto Maple Leafs: The Leafs are looking to take someone who might be able to step into their lineup immediately. They have announced a new focus on building for the future but with the glutton of prospects and young players at centre, defense and in goal they will look to draft a top winger.
SELECTION:Nikita Filatov

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