NHL Top 5 2013 NHL Picks.

1. Nathan MacKinnon

Nathan MacKinnon put up 31 goals and 47 assists with the Halifax Mooseheads and led the team to being two games away from the QMJHL Finals. I do not believe he will put up Crosby-like numbers, but could put up 80 points someday in the National Hockey League. He will improve this upcoming season, expect him to be the #1 Draft Pick for the 2013 NHL Entry Draft.

2. Seth Jones

Seth Jones will be a top 3 pick in this upcoming draft. He is a slick-skater, he posses a heavy shot and has an outstanding offensive upside. He has a large frame and can still skate so fluidly. He can create space, and win battles for the puck. He is strong, athletic, and has great poise. Jones is great defensively and can play in all situations. He could challenge MacKinnon for the number one spot.


3. Aleksander Barkov

 Aleksander Barkov is one of the most highly touted Finnish prospects since Mikko Koivu in 2001. He is 6'2 weighing 205 pounds. Barkov was 16 years old when he suited up for Finland in the IHWJC. He became the youngest player to score a goal, breaking Sidney Crosby's previous record. He has been competing with men in the SM-liiga and is the most ready NHL prospect. He is strong on the puck, posses a heavy shot, and works well in tight spaces. Barkov also creates offense and plays well in defensive situations.

4. Hunter Shinkaruk

 Shinkaruk could move up the boards depending on how he plays without WHL star Emerson Etem. Shinkaruk posted huge numbers last season and   possesses a passion for the game like no other. He has great instincts, a great work ethic, and is consistent. He is creative, intelligent and a fast skater who fly's past defenders.

5. Sean Monahan

Monahan has good size and uses his skills with determination. Out of all of the prospects in this draft, Monahan would have to be the most clutch. Not only is he a great playmaker who has incredible hockey sense, he has a lethal snapshot and puts the puck in the net. He is a player teammates want. His way to find holes in the defense and create a play is uncanny. Monahan put up great numbers last season, expect him to put up large numbers this upcoming season.