If anything’s certain, it’s that the Detroit Red Wings got more than a ton of talent waiting for them with the 13th pick should they stay put and use it. So much, that I had a tough time concocting this ranking of seven players who could be there when it’s time for Steve Yzerman to turn in the draft card.
Before I go any further and reveal these rankings, let me show you how I concocted these rankings. First, I went over to Tankathon and checked out their June 23rd mock draft. Then, I looked at each player taken between 10th and 16th overall, giving me seven names that could be there for the taking when the Wings picked.
The hard part came afterward: concocting the actual ranking itself. I talked about most of these players already, so for me, it came down to who had the most upside. Other factors included size, production, and durability.
That made the process easier, even if I had to move a few more pieces around. Anyway, what did I ultimately come up with? Here’s the ultimate list of Round 1 prospects who could be wearing a winged wheel sweater on Friday night.
7 - Lynden Lakovic, F/Moose Jaw
I like Lynden Lakovic’s size, and I can see him forging a niche as a physical winger when he turns pro, assuming he adds another 20-plus pounds to his frame. He finally had a productive season, despite playing in just 47 games. If Lakovic repeats his 2024-25 season this year, he’s gonna be an outstanding prospect.
6 - Kashawn Aitcheson, D/Barrie
This is one defenseman the Wings got to have their eye on if they roll with a blue liner. While there are a few others I like more, Kashawn Aitcheson’s ability to put up goals like a forward is beyond enticing. When he reaches his prime, he’ll be a 15-20-goal scorer in the NHL.
5 - Carter Bear, C/LW/Everett
An injury hurt Carter Bear’s draft stock, but it doesn’t take away what was one of the most productive WHL seasons that saw him snag 40 goals. Plus, his versatility should also see him go higher than expected. But that doesn’t mean he won’t be there for the taking at No. 13 overall.
4 - Roger McQueen, F/Brandon
Another one whose injuries may affect his draft stock. But Roger McQueen would’ve enjoyed one legendary season if it lasted more than 17 games. Like Bear, he brings a versatile game. But, unlike Bear, he’s got an advantage in the size department with room to put on more.
3 - Justin Carbonneau, RW/Blainville-Boisbriand
Another high-profile scorer who put up 46 goals and could be one of those wingers you always need to account for when he’s skating into the circle. He’d be someone to place onto the top power play unit in time.
2 - Victor Eklund, LW/Djurgardens IF
One of my favorite players in this draft. Yeah, Eklund’s undersized, but he’s already proven he plays bigger than his 5’11, 170-lb frame. Plus, he got a lot of ice time and held his own against grown men, with 19 goals and 31 points.
1 - Jackson Smith, D/Tri-City
Yep, Jackson Smith’s my top choice out of the seven players who could go three spots ahead of the Red Wings, and three behind. Smith’s got the size advantage, he’s a playmaker, and he’ll have the luxury of playing at both the junior and collegiate levels.
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