PHILADELPHIA — The 2014 NHL Entry Draft welcomed the league`s future talent. This report provides an in-depth analysis of every selection made in the first round, detailing the skills of the prospects and their potential role within their drafting team`s organizational depth.
Pick 1: Aaron Ekblad
Rank: 1
Team: Florida Panthers
From: Barrie (OHL)
Height: 6-foot-3
Weight: 213 lbs
Position: D
Prospect Analysis
Ekblad is a formidable defenseman known for his physicality and exceptional defensive capabilities. Beyond just hitting and winning board battles, he possesses strong skating with powerful strides and sharp pivots. He has significantly enhanced his offensive abilities, showcasing above-average puck handling and vision. His creativity from the point allows him to effectively join the rush or quarterback the power play with a potent shot.
Team-Fit Analysis
For the Panthers, Ekblad represents a potential foundational piece on defense, capable of handling significant ice time in crucial moments. He is expected to bolster a defense that struggled significantly (ranking 29th last season), complementing a promising core of young forwards and the returning veteran goalie, Roberto Luongo. To become a consistent playoff contender, Florida must establish a clear team identity alongside developing this young talent.
