Welcome back to The Journey, where we track the development of prospects as they excel in junior, make the NHL, and push towards stardom.

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The moment we’ve been eagerly waiting for is almost here—the NHL 2024 Draft is just around the corner. With the excitement building, I thought it would be a great time to dive into some intriguing prospects who I have been eagerly keeping an eye on. I am going to base my insights on the consensus rankings from our trusted Dobber Prospects Scouting Team as detailed in the 2024 NHL Draft Rankings: Dobber Prospects' Final Top-128. I’ll share my thoughts on how these players might fit onto the teams that may draft them, based on the rankings in the above.

Of course, we know that teams and general managers often have specific players in mind who fit their team's unique structure and needs. For now, let's just play along and explore the possibilities.

Zayne Parekh, RHD

Dobber Prospects Ranking – No. 4

Potential Drafting Team: Columbus Blue Jackets

First up is Zayne Parekh from the Saginaw Spirits. Parekh racked up an impressive 96 points in 66 games during his pre-draft season in the OHL. If the Blue Jackets snag him with their fourth overall pick, it would significantly boost Columbus’ blue line. Pairing him with prospects like David Jiricek and Denton Mateychuk would be a sight to behold. Parekh is a magnetic offensive talent with a remarkable feel for the game when the puck is on his stick. His offensive toolkit is nothing short of elite—his skating, hands, creativity, deceptiveness, shot, and puck control are all highly refined. What sets him apart as a defenseman is his ability to wield these offensive skills from the blue line.  While his defensive game has had its questionable moments, this is something that can improve with more reps and the right coaching. His offensive prowess, however, is undeniable and too significant to overlook. Adding Parekh to the mix would make the Blue Jackets’ future defensive lineup one to watch.

From the article: Zayne Parekh defence clips.

Stick work off the rush, poke check timing, physicality, cycle defence.#2024NHLDraft pic.twitter.com/jsWkxQgCU6

— Mitchell Brown (@MitchLBrown) June 17, 2024

Tij Iginla, LW

Dobber Prospects Ranking – No.7

Potential Drafting Team: Ottawa Senators

I’ve been high on Iginla for some time now. You can check out my WHL article from December 2023 where I briefly covered Tij Iginla here and his rise to prominence after being traded from the Seattle Thunderbirds to the Kelowna Rockets. I’d love to see him drafted by the Flames like his father, but for now, let’s stick with this exercise. He’s an excellent skater—heavy, hard, smart, and competitive. On the puck, he’s a dynamic individual creator with standout stickhandling skills. His pure sense and playmaking might not always shine as brightly as the rest of his game, but his hunger and tenacity make him an undeniable force. He fits the mold of a tough grinder who can both create and finish plays, making him a player who cannot be overlooked. Ottawa is known for their aggressive draft strategy, never hesitating to reach for a player they truly desire. Iginla fits this bill perfectly and could add even more grit to the Senators’ top six. Imagine the opposition having to face Brady Tkachuk and then deal with Iginla—a one-two punch that would be intimidating for any team. Iginla’s presence would not only bolster the team’s physicality but also enhance their playmaking capabilities, making Ottawa’s offense a challenge for opponents.

NHL Scout on Tij Iginla:

"I'm betting he's the next best in the class (after Mack). Already overwhelming with puck pursuit. Elite handles, a great shot, physical… he's got his dad's attitude too. That puck is his and he wants it."

Not sure I could agree with anything more.

— Cam Robinson (@Hockey_Robinson) June 11, 2024

Tij Iginla is a chip off the old block… but even better draft year results. And the August birthdate is extra nice. https://t.co/NUcSY4v0Ca pic.twitter.com/2MbP8nTiU9

— Byron Bader (@ByronMBader) April 3, 2024

Igor Chernyshov, LW

Dobber Prospects Ranking – No.13

Potential Drafting Team: Minnesota Wild

With the Minnesota Wild missing the playoffs this past year and stuck in cap purgatory for what feels like forever, they need to nail every draft pick to stay competitive until their financial constraints ease up. Chernyshov could be a key piece in their puzzle. Despite being nearly 200 pounds, he moves swiftly and isn’t afraid to throw his weight around. He's a strong power forward unafraid to drive towards the net and engage in the game’s physical aspects, showing no hesitation in delivering hits and running opponents. Chernyshov’s ability to control the puck down low and win board battles is crucial for maintaining possession. He's exactly the type of player the Wild might need. Playing in the KHL has given him a head start on his path to the NHL, potentially shortening his timeline compared to other prospects. This could make him an enticing option for Minnesota at the 13th spot, offering a blend of physicality and readiness that could help the Wild stay afloat during these challenging times.

Two minutes of Igor Chernyshov creating rush offence through anticipation, silky hands, abusing a speed advantage, working give-and-gos, smart delays, and winning body positioning.

Chernyshov is one of the best rush creators in the #2024NHLDraft. pic.twitter.com/THqw6SR0oU

— Lassi Alanen (@lassialanen) May 20, 2024

Carter Yakemchuk, RHD

Dobber Prospects Ranking – No. 17

Potential Drafting Team: Washington Capitals

Yakemchuk might be flying under the radar in this year’s draft, given the abundance of high-caliber defensemen available. To put things in perspective, Yakemchuk ranks as the 7th defenseman on our Prospects Rankings for this draft class. This draft is incredibly deep, brimming with serious talent. The Capitals find themselves in a precarious position—they need significant reinforcements across their roster. Last season, their lineup showed flashes of potential, and also squeezing into a playoff spot. They are teetering on the edge between needing a full rebuild and stubbornly believing they don’t.

🎥CARTER YAKEMCHUK – HIGHLIGHT REEL🎥

Allow us to remind you. Carter is a defenceman!@WHLHitmen | #NHLDraft pic.twitter.com/eKdunOou9I

📢 advertisement:

— The WHL (@TheWHL) June 10, 2024

Yakemchuk might not crack the NHL lineup this coming season, but he has the potential to be a decent replacement for Carlson when he's ready to step up. Standing tall at 6’3″, he is one of the most purely skilled defensemen in the draft, boasting a solid shot and notable physicality. While his skating can be inconsistent, this is a skill that can be refined with consistent work in the minors. With four picks in the top three rounds, the Capitals should focus on selecting the best player available. Yakemchuk fits that bill and addresses a critical need on the blue line, an area where they are notably thin. Up front, their prospect pool looks promising with Andrew Cristall, Ivan Miroschnichenko, Hendrix Lapierre, and Ryan Leonard. However, their defensive depth is lacking. Yakemchuk would be a perfect fit for the Capitals, adding much-needed depth and future stability to their defense.

Terik Parascak, RW

Dobber Prospect Ranking – No. 28

Drafting Team: Calgary Flames (pick from Vancouver Canucks)

The Calgary Flames have a history of snapping up WHL talent with their first-round picks, making Terik Parascak a potential target. With eight picks in the first four rounds—five of those in the first three—the Flames are well-positioned to make some significant additions to their roster. Should Parascak be available around the 28th pick, has been a standout in the WHL this season, racking up 105 points, including 43 goals, over 68 games. While he isn’t the biggest forward, which might cause some teams to pass on him, this could play into Calgary’s favor. Parascak is a smart, versatile player with a strong feel for the game. He's effective in all situations, excelling on the power play and contributing on the penalty kill. His offensive prowess places him among the top prospects in his draft class.

🎥 TERIK PARASCAK – HIGHLIGHT REEL 🎥

A season to remember for the Super Rookie!@PGCougars | #NHLDraft pic.twitter.com/jXN0bU8zCS

— The WHL (@TheWHL) June 8, 2024

The Flames’ prospect pool is slightly above mid-pack according to our Organizational Rankings, and they lack depth at right wing. Adding Parascak could be a strategic move for Calgary, filling a key positional need and boosting their overall talent.

Ryder Ritchie, C/RW

Dobber Prospects Ranking: No. 32

Potential Drafting Team: Philadelphia (from Florida Panthers)

Ritchie is a methodical winger who consistently delivers positive contributions on the ice. Though his intensity can fluctuate at times, he shines as a high-end complementary player. He may not drive the play due to lacking elite puck skills, but Ritchie excels in a supportive role. He’s a smooth skater with excellent hands, and his edge work and ability to change speeds create the space and time he needs to showcase his playmaking abilities. Reliable in transition, he advances the play in the offensive zone with smart puck retrievals and intelligent decisions.

🎥RYDER RITCHIE – HIGHLIGHT REEL🎥

Ryder Ritchie is the name, lighting the lamp is the game.@PARaidersHockey | #NHLDraft pic.twitter.com/KPUoGl0vNG

— The WHL (@TheWHL) June 13, 2024

Ritchie boasts a strong shot and can find teammates in open positions even under pressure. He’s expected to be a first-round pick, potentially going before the 32nd overall selection. With the Flyers looking to bolster their forward depth, especially with Mitchkov now heading to Philly, adding a high-end top-six forward like Ritchie would be a significant boost to their right side. If the Flyers get a chance to snag him, he would undoubtedly strengthen their roster.

Emil Hemming, RW

Dobber Prospects Ranking – No. 38

Potential Drafting Team:  Utah Hockey Team

Hemming is the quintessential Finnish forward—tough, smart, and always looking to create opportunities. While he might not dazzle with flashy plays, he gets the job done with efficiency and a positive attitude. His size and pro experience in Finland bring a disciplined edge, but he’ll need another 2-3 years to fully round out his game and be NHL-ready.

Two minutes of Emil Hemming being one of the better shooters in the #2024NHLDraft.

A diverse shot selection, great accuracy from defender's legs, can beat goalies from longer ranges more than your average prospect, a legitimate power play threat with his one-timer. pic.twitter.com/A4heXBwDVB

— Lassi Alanen (@lassialanen) June 12, 2024

Now that the Coyotes’ move to Utah is official, GM Bill Armstrong can zero in on further enhancing their prospect pool. With seven draft picks in the first three rounds, including three each in the second and third rounds, Utah is in a strong position. Their strengths lie on the wings and at center, but elite centers are always valuable. So should an elite centre become available, they should take him. You could however, make the case that their defense is their weak spot, so drafting Hemming might not fit their immediate needs perfectly. If he’s the top talent available, Armstrong might still make the call. He’s known for making unexpected choices, and this is one pick I’ll be watching closely—I have a feeling it could be a real surprise.

Thanks for reading and see you next week! Follow me on X  @Punters_hockey for more content and fantasy hockey analysis.