MINNEAPOLIS, Minn – After years of disappointing draft picks, the Minnesota Wild are starting to see some hope from their pipeline. This year, the Wild will try to continue their run with the 2011 NHL Entry Draft class. Besides their 2010 pick Mikael Granlund, the Wild have no bluechip prospects so their first priority will be adding a quality player to the organization. Armed with the #10 overall pick, the team will have to pick the best prospect available, but the glaring hole in the right side is hard to ignore. At #10, the potential available picks will include forwards Mika Zibanejad, Joel Armia, Sven Baertschi and Mark McNeil. One of the fastest risers in this year’s draft crop, Mika Zibanejad has skyrocketed into being the 2nd ranked European skater by CSS. Started the season as a wing and then moved to center, the 6’2” 191 pound centerman plays a power forward style game but also possess good playmaking skills. He has a solid package of two-way ability, grit and hockey sense. He knows the importance of winning battles and hitting to create turnovers as a power forward. Although he is a centerman, the Wild will have to take a long hard look at him. It doesn’t hurt know that he is versatile enough to play wing as well. Another popular pick amongst fans is Finnish Joel Armia. After watching Mikael Granlund show off his superb playmaking skills during the World Championships, the idea of adding a shooter to the organization to compliment that skill is an intriguing one. Armia possesses a big 6’ 3” frame and at only 190 pounds, has some room to fill out. The winger has a dynamic side to his offense, and is able to beat defenders one-on-one. He also possesses a good shot and has incredible hands. His natural position is right wing and being a Finnish native makes him a popular pick by Wild fans. Also European but plays in the Western Hockey League, is Swiss left winger Sven Baertschi. Who plays alongside countryman Nino Niederreiter, a star player for the Portland Winterhawks. Baertschi leads all rookies in scoring with 85 points in 66 games. Armed has an excellent wrist shot and willingness to drive to the net. Baertschi has the ability to provide the Wild with the offense it desperately is looking for. He also has very good speed and isn’t afraid to give a hit. However, he is only 5’ 10”, 181 pound. NHL teams will wonder if he can continue producing offensively in a more physical NHL level. While Baertschi’s size is worrisome, prospect Mark McNeil provides an imposing presence. At 6’2” 201, McNeil has a body for the NHL. The gritty centerman has impressed with the combination of physical play and offensive touch. He possesses all the tools to become a good physical center: size, faceoff ability, aggression, and puck protection skills. However, while physically dominant, some question what kind of offensive upside he has. In the end, the Wild will look for the prospect with the combination of offensive upside and risk. With the #10 overall pick, the Wild will be looking for an impact player that can contribute offensively. The Wild have a good depth of defensive defensemen but lack a true puck moving defenseman. The team also has glaring holes on right wing and wouldn’t mind adding more talent to left wing and center. With only Mikael Granlund as their lone bluechip prospect, the Wild hope that their selection will one day become a key Wild player’. Contact the writer at daniel.chan@prohockeynews.com
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