#1 Rasmus Sandin
No surprise here.
Rasmus Sandin has been excellent this year in the NHL when given the opportunity (for the most part) and projects as a future NHL star, and top-pairing defenseman.
Corey Pronman ranked him tenth in the NHL among drafted prospects. Pronman called him a “high end” prospect who will be a first pairing player.
That is great news.
Sandin isn’t physical, he won’t wow you with his speed, shot or passing – what makes him so good is his intelligence. The reason he is a 29th pick who has risen so highly is that the tools scouts look for to project a star player aren’t really there for him.
What is there is an above average skill-set combined with a being one of the smartest players around. Decision making and position are his strengths.
Sandin is going to be one of the best defenseman in Toronto Maple Leafs history and this is the last time he makes this list. If he plays in one more game – and he will – his contract will kick in and his AHL career will be over.
About time.
Sandin should probably have been a regular this entire season, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he forces his way above the bottom pairing before the year is out. If not, he and Dermott are going to make for one of the best third pairings anyone has ever seen.