Habster:
If Gainey and Timmins could trade up with Colin Wilson still available, then he would be my pick……a big strong, multi-dynamic center in the mold of Rod Brind’Amour or Ron Francis.
He certainly won’t be around when the Canadiens make their way to the podium at the 25th selection but if they can swing a deal to move up to the top 10, then there’s a chance!!!
That’s what I love about draft day, the drama and suspense…..if Wilson is within reach, don’t be surprised if Gainey makes a bold move to trade up for the much sought after big center.
Gainey hasn’t been shy in previous drafts to move later picks to get better positions in the 1st or 2nd rounds. He also has some valued trade commodities in a deep prospect pool within the Canadiens system. Gainey certainly has quite a few options at his disposal heading into the draft which bods well for the Habs organization.
NHLentrydraft2008.com:
NHL Central Scouting’s Gary Eggleston:
“Colin is a combination of a skilled and power forward. He is very strong, has excellent hands and is a very good passer and playmaker. He makes and takes a difficult pass extremely well. He is tough and strong on the puck and is a very smart player who is aware of where teammates are at all times. He anticipates the play at both ends of the ice very well. When he gets the puck he responds instantly and knows where to put the puck. He is very reliable defensively, has incredibly quick feet and he can turn quickly while maintaining puck control.”
Boston University head coach Jack Parker:
“Colin is a really smart player who sees the ice really well. He can really move the puck because he has what I refer to as ‘Larry Bird court-sense’. He knows where everybody is and can see plays develop in front of him. He knows where to go when he has the puck and when he doesn’t have the puck. An asset that never seems to surprise me is that he always collects the pass near him, so that the puck stays with him.”