Mock v.3.0

I'd be real unamused if Detroit went with a high floor/low ceiling option considering we need a high ceiling top Left-Shot winger more than a 2C (since we have Kasper who is just a slower, much more physical Danielson)

The more I think about it though, the more it makes sense for a Detroit team that is clearly building with defensive structure in mind above all. Responsible two-way Centers that still can produce at a top-six level are so rare, but so valuable for building that defensive structure and puck possession (which should turn into offense). Strong, extra C depth is an enviable thing, too. Who says Danielson or Kasper (or even Larkin) couldn't flex to the wing at times?

Especially if there's a chance they can still take a solid potential top-six winger like Barlow or Honzek at #17.

I appreciate defensive-capabke forwards; trust me. I love them.
But to construct a team filled with defensively sound forwards, a one trick pony play, does not work.
Also yes, Kasper/Danielson could play winger, but that's not what their style is built for.

I just think that a top line NEEDS offense. Can't think of any toplines that aren't very good offensively and can still be considered a top line.

Good enough picks on the first and last Blues 1st (though I actually think they'd go Moore at #10 and then pick another D instead of Stenberg), but there's about 6-8 Dmen they'd presumably take before Gulyaev. Probably change him to Bonk or Lindstein.

I understand and agree with that need completely, but if you aren't getting Leonard, which winger are you taking at #9?

Personally wouldn't love Benson, as another small playmaker isn't what we need.
Perhaps Perreault would be solid as his hockey IQ is super high, but he is also on the smaller side and I'm not sure if he brings the scoring we need (like Benson).
Wood doesn't seem like an Yzerman pick, though he can score. I wouldn't want him at #9.
Maybe But, if you believe there is enough skill within his huge frame to score like a first-line forward. But that's no sure bet.

That leaves Barlow and Honzek, in my view. Barlow supposedly has one of the best shots in the draft, he could be that scorer we need up top. Honzek has the size, skill and all-around game (and a plus shot), perhaps he has the top-line potential. But at that point, both of those guys may be in play at #17, so do you simply ensure that you get one and "reach" for need at #9?

I just think, value-wise, you don't get players like Danielson beyond those top-ten premium picks. But you can find potentially more offensive wingers that can potentially impact a top-line around the middle of the first round. Even if he isn't considered BPA (though I'd argue he is), they still might have to consider him there because the asset value of a top-six two-way big right-handed center.

I mean I think the best course of action would be, given your mock, Moore or Pellikka.

Moore is a a center, yes, but as you said these guys can play Wing too. I'd just keep Kasper at center since he is a player you want to have the freedom of being all over the ice. I believe he has a higher offensive ceiling than Honzek and Danielson and that's really about it. Plus, imagine two Larkin's on the line.
Pellikka obviously fits two needs of a RHD and more offensive capabilities. He's sub 6', but with his future defensive partner being either 6'4" (Wallinder) or 6'6" (Edvinsson), I think we can spare a few inches.

At 17, I think Honzek would be a phenomenal pick. Our 2nd line would be playing the physical hockey our team lacks oh so desperately.

Mazur-Kasper-Honzek would be a 2nd line of absolute ball bruisers.

To add on;

A top four of

Wallinder-Seider
Edvinsson-Pellikka

Would be absolutely fantastic for having defenseman cover for the other guys' weakness.

Could also mention how Edvinsson-Seider would probably be the best PK pairing and the Wallinder-Pellikka pairing would be a phenomenal PP pairing, but I don't think we see these guys run 2 minutes straight.