Vancouver Canucks: Top-5 2016 NHL Draft Prospects

LW Matthew Tkachuk (London Knights, OHL)

Ranked #4 by Hockeyprospect.com
Ranked #3 by ISS Hockey
Ranked #5 by Future Considerations
Ranked #8 by McKeen’s Hockey

With Matthew Tkachuk, we have one last forward in the projected top five. Tkachuk, a 6-foot-4, 194-pound winger, is in his first season with the OHL’s London Knights.

From EliteProspects.com:

"A multi-dimensional energy winger that plays a pro-style, adaptive game. Well-versed as a guy who can consistently put up points, but also as an agitator who plays with a little bit of bite and nastiness. Skates with excellent balance and speed, outclassing many in his age range. No lack of offensive instincts and knows how to score in many different ways. Confidence in his abilities and playing to the extent of his capabilities strengthens his work ethic and creativity. All-in-all, a unique and effective forward who defines his own limits and seeks to exceed them, along with all on-ice expectations. (Curtis Joe, EP 2016)"

Tkachuk currently sits at 22 goals and 81 points in 43 games — third on the Knights and only two points behind the Toronto Maple Leafs’ 2015 first-round selection Mitch Marner. Furthermore, he was another standout at the 2016 World Juniors, recording four goals and 11 points for Team Canada.

Next: The Rebuild Could Be Over in 2016

Potential: First-Line Forward

Draft Range: 4-10

So, you see, falling out of a playoff spot could end up being great for the Canucks if they pick in the top five. Laine, Puljujarvi or Matthews on the roster? Who would say no to that?