The Vancouver Canucks have drafted Olli Juolevi fifth overall at the 2016 NHL draft on Friday, in Buffalo.
Juolevi, 18, was the first defenceman and (London) Knight drafted this year. He posted 9 goals, 33 assists and 42 points in 57 games for London.
This selection was both a surprise and not. Juolevi was the top defenceman available, and the Canucks needed a major upgrade on defence, especially if Hamhuis will leave the organization during the off-season. (Ben) Hutton & (Nikita) Tryamkin could get along well with the Fin, the third drafted during the first round.
However, this pick was met with some criticism. The Columbus Blue Jackets selected Pierre-Luc Dubois 3rd overall, letting the 4th overall Oilers take Jesse Puuljujarvi. This leaves Matthew Tkachuk available to be drafted. Therefore, it was interesting for the Canucks to pass on Tkachuk, who had 107 points on the season, and scored the game - winning goal in the (Mastercard) Memorial Cup Final in Red Deer. Fans in the stands were shocked, and they didn't hide their opinion.
So, did the Canucks win or lose on this selection? It's a simple yes, they won. Even if Tkachuk would become a skilled player, Juolevi is a good 2 way player and has good playmaking skills. He was, arguably, the best defenceman in the draft. The Canucks have themselves a very solid prospect in their hands.
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