The Vegas Golden Knights add size in NHL Mock Draft Simulation 2.0

The Vegas Golden Knights add a big winger to the mix in the latest NHL Mock Draft simulation. What's different from the previous version?

Russia U20 Hockey team player, Igor Chernyshov (25) seen in...
Russia U20 Hockey team player, Igor Chernyshov (25) seen in... | SOPA Images/GettyImages
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197th Overall: Svante Sjodin, C/ÖREBRO HK J20

One thing that makes Svante Sjodin special is his forechecking game. He works hard every shift, taking away his opponent's space at every turn. He has the speed to make this happen, carrying a 200-ft. game similar to Jack Berglund and Igor Chernyshov. He also has good size, standing at 6'1" and weighing 187 lbs. The NHL Mock Draft loved the size in this version, with Sjodin being no different.

His work ethic and physicality make him a valuable pick for the Vegas Golden Knights. Bruce Cassidy believes in cutting off routes on the forecheck, with his players sacrificing themselves at every turn. Sjodin would be an ideal fit if drafted, making him a late-round steal. That's especially true since he does whatever it takes to support his teammates.

212th Overall: Caleb Heil, G/Madison Capitals

This pick looks strange considering the Vegas Golden Knights have plenty of goaltending talent. They have Adin Hill and Logan Thompson at the helm, with prospects like Carl Lindbom waiting in the wings. There are also Heil's statistics in the USHL, where he averaged a GAA of 3.86 and a save percentage of .870 in three seasons.

But Hill and Thompson will become free agents after next season, putting Vegas in a bind. The University of North Dakota commit has experience in different levels, including the World Junior Championship. If Heil continues to develop as a goaltending prospect, he can become a good goaltender for any team, including Vegas.

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