23 Options for the Toronto Maple Leafs at the 2024 Draft - Lucas Pettersson
By Austin Kelly
The Toronto Maple Leafs will pick 23rd in this year's NHL Entry Draft.
Because the Toronto Maple Leafs are picking 23rd, we thought it would be a fun idea to profile 23 potential draft picks they could make in that spot leading up to the draft.
Lucas Petterson is one of the more under the radar players in the 2024 NHL Draft class, but the Swedish center has a lot of traits that the Toronto Maple Leafs would like.
Playing for MoDo in the Swedish top junior league, the J20 Nationell, Pettersson was one of the league's best offensive talents, with 27 goals, 30 assists & 57 points in 44 games for the club, one of the top point getters for 2024 draft eligibles.
Petterson also played top line for Sweden at the WJC U18, tied for 11st in points for the Bronze medal winning Swedes with eight. Pettersson has consistently been an offensive factor wherever he plays, but is more than just a good offensive player.
INTRODUCTION
Lucas Pettersson has been one of the more dynamic players out of Sweden this season. A natural center, Pettersson is also able to play on the wing, although he may manage to stick at center in the future.
Born Örnsköldsvik, Sweden. Pettersson plays for his hometown team, MoDo. He spent the season in the J20 Nationell, netting 27 goals and 57 points in 44 games, easily leading the team in points, as well as placing 1st In points and assists.
Pettersson also got a bit of experience in the Swedish Hockey League, getting five games with MoDo, but went scoreless in minimal minutes. A leader for Sweden at the U18U18s, Pettersson had a goal and assist in the Bronze medal game against Slovakia, a leading factor in their finish.
EllteProspects has his consolidated ranking at 36th amongst consensus. Pettersson was ranked 31st in Bob McKenzie's ranking from NHL pro scouts, ranked 16 by NHL Central Scouting for international skaters.
Lucas Pettersson showcases his speed and makes it 6-1 for Sweden from a quick counter-attack. It's his first point of the tournament. pic.twitter.com/FvbJURCzyU
— Lassi Alanen (@lassialanen) April 27, 2024
Petterson is a quick and creative forward who generates a lot of offense. He has a mix of quick feet and quick hands.