2. New York Rangers – Jack Hughes (C, USNTDP, USHL)
If I’m somehow right here and the Devils do end up taking Kakko at first overall, then the Rangers will be the proud owners of one of the best possible consolation prizes.
Hughes lit up the USHL this year to the point where it almost seemed boring, putting up a monstrous 112 points in 50 games.
He has elite puckhandling skills and great vision on the ice, leading to a surplus of assists.
The Rangers don’t really have an elite centre prospect, so if Hughes were to fall to second overall, they would be making out like gangbusters with this pick.
Regardless of whether Hughes goes first overall or Kakko, both the Rangers and the Devils will be selecting a future cornerstone piece for their respective franchises.