The Sharks have reportedly gotten calls about the availability of the No. 4 pick and the Ducks could surprise at No. 2. What does it mean for the Capitals?
The 2023 NHL Draft is just hours away, and teams picking in the top 10 are bound to get a star of the future in what's an impressive draft class led by Connor Bedard. However, teams in the top five are also considering moves down, and the San Jose Sharks are reportedly among them.
Per The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun, the Sharks have gotten a number of calls surrounding the No. 4 pick as there are a number of teams looking to move up and get their hands on one of the top names available. However, it's unclear if Mike Grier is sold on moving down.
Matvei Michkov is speculated to be that X-factor, as the draft's most enigmatic prospect has an impressive resume and has been considered the top talent behind Bedard.
LeBrun reported that the Nashville Predators are among those teams calling about moving up to No. 4. Nashville is pegged to pick at No. 15. Could the Capitals be among these teams to reach out?
There were reports earlier in the week that Washington was exploring ways to move up in the draft with the team said to be "seriously aimed" at Michkov, who has earned comparisons to Alex Ovechkin and had a better pre-draft season than the Great 8.
Along with the Sharks, the Montreal Canadiens have been considering a move down as well and have listened to offers for their fifth overall pick.
For the Capitals, moving up seems worth it if Michkov is the target, as he has appeared to impress a handful of teams he's met with in Nashville so far. The first three picks are 98 percent guaranteed to be Bedard, Adam Fantilli and Leo Carlsson, but latest speculation could see Ducks GM Pat Verbeek surprise with an off-the-board pick over Fantilli. Could that be Michkov?
There's also increasing speculation that the Philadelphia Flyers, who are on the clock right before Washington, could upset the club and take Michkov. Kent Hughes also confirmed that the Habs met with Michkov. So, it's looking more evident that the Russian could be off the board when it's time for D.C. to select eighth.
Still, seeing if the Sharks are willing to move down would be a solid option even if Michkov is surprisingly taken second. That would leave Fantilli and Carlsson to fall, guaranteeing a fast-rising star.
There are also benefits to standing pat at No. 8, though; top names to watch at that category, including Zach Benson, Ryan Leonard and David Reinbacher. Benson is D.C.'s choice in The Hockey News' mock draft.
The 2023 NHL Draft kicks off at 7 p.m. ET.