Canucks select William Lockwood with the 64th overall pick

With the 64th overall pick in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft, the Vancouver Canucks have selected two way forward William Lockwood.

Lockwood was ranked 108th amongst North American Skaters, but was actually ranked as 74th by TSN’s Bob Mckenzie. With that being said, with the talent left on the board, it’s fair to believe the Canucks were targeting Lockwood with this pick and did not expect him to be available when they made their way to the podium next time.

Lockwood’s is regarded as a high energy forward who is a proficient skater and has shown an ability to finish his chances. There are concerns about his creativity with the puck and his ability to win puck battles.

The right-handed winger finished the UNDTP season with 33 points in 59 games in a middle six role. He then went to the U18 in North Dakota where he posted 7 points in 7 games. It’s not surprising that the Canucks would have interest in Lockwood, as they have shown a propensity to target players who excel there, and Lockwood fits that mood. He showed very well for the United States.

When using pGPS, Lockwood has zero matches, so it’s hard to get a read on what the changes are but given the Canucks obviously see something they like about Lockwood.

Lockwood is committed to the University of Michigan next season.

The only concern is that the Canucks skipped some players that have higher ceilings and potential for a diminutive forward that works really hard and is a ball of energy on the ice. Teams do need players like that, and he could turn into something, but passing over those other players is a bold move to get him.