Jimmy Snuggerud, RW, USNDT
Another likely choice for the Predators picking at 17th-overall is Jimmy Snuggerud of the U.S. National Development Team. Another big framed forward, so I’m guessing you’re sensing a theme by now on this list?
Snuggerud has so many desirable traits in a draft prospect that starts with the raw traits of size and hustle. He’s also strong in his forechecking and appears a more safe pick than some of these other players that may have higher ceilings, but also have higher bust potential.
Reading on scouting reports on Snuggerud, I don’t get that vibe that he’s a major bust potential. With that comes the ceiling maybe being a little low with him as well. It all depends on how bold the Nashville Predators decide to get with this pick.
Also it’s worth noting that Snuggerud brings a lot of balance to his game, meaning he can be beneficial to his future team in a multitude of ways. I’ll be very pleased if the Nashville Predators selected Snuggerud at pick No.17 on Thursday.
What if the Nashville Predators trade up in 1st Round?
For what it’s worth, here’s my short list of top-end draft prospect that the Predators would have to trade up for to select:
- Cutter Gauthier , LW/C
- Matthew Savoie, C
- Marco Kasper, C
I avoided the lack of home-run defensemen in this draft class. There’s just not that many, and the ones that are slated to go top-15 don’t seem worth trading up for.
Catch the First Round of the 2022 NHL Draft on Thursday, July 7 at 6 P.M. CDT on ESPN. The following rounds will be televised on NHL Network, and you can stream the entire draft on ESPN+.