Thomas Harley, D, 17
We’ve mentioned Thomas Harley a lot on this site this week and with good reason, the kid is an absolute stud and is a lock to go in the first round on Friday.
The Syracuse native had an outstanding year for the Mississauga Steelheads in the OHL, posting 11 goals and 47 assists for 58 points in 68 regular season games, in addition to four points (four assists) in playoff outings.
Harley also had four points (one goal, three assists) in seven games for the Canada U18 team at the U18 World Junior Championships.
Blessed with size, outstanding skating ability and good hockey smarts, Harley has shot up the rankings and could be selected just outside the top 10 on Friday.
Prospect Profile
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 192 lb
Date of Birth: Aug 19, 2001
2018-19 Team: Mississauga Steelheads
Position: Defenseman
Born: Canada
Shot: Left-shot
His sublime skating skills will allow him to transition out of the zone both quickly and efficiently, which is vital in the modern-day NHL.
There are a slew of high-end defensemen available in the first round but Harley has emerged as one of the most promising prospects, thanks in part to his offensive prowess and ability to move the puck with flair.
Vegas are able to boast a boatload of stud blueliners in their farm system but, after giving up Erik Brannstrom in the trade for Mark Stone, selecting a player of Harley’s ilk would go someway to making up for that loss.
We at Vegas Hockey Knight are going to stick our necks on the line and predict that, if still on the board, the Golden Knights will take notice of the hype and take Thomas Harley with the No.17 pick.